I don’t recall a story about a phoenix in the original Story Teller but it feels that this, the Members’ Edition, is the story of a phoenix rising from the ashes. It was every Story Teller fan’s hope to see their favourite childhood memory reborn and finally it is here after more than 35 years. True, it is an unofficial rebirth – produced by members of the Story Teller Facebook Group for members, by fans for fans – but the magic is intact. The spellbinding combination of words, pictures, and sound that made the original series so irresistible is waiting for you do rediscover within the pages of the magazine. Of course, it wouldn’t be Story Teller without the audio, and so we have all the stories lovingly narrated complete with enchanting soundtrack, charming sound effects, the unforgettable PING! that tells you when to turn the pages, and not to forget, the catchy Story Teller jingle.
I would like to thank everyone involved in this project: those who volunteered their writing, artistic and voice skills for free. Working with the team of volunteers has been a pure joy. We were all different but we had one thing in common that bonded us in a special way, and that was our great love for Story Teller, a publication that continues to influence and motivate us.
Elsewhere in the magazine, everyone involved is credited as they so richly deserve, but I would like to thank two people in particular, two greats without whom our childhood would have been so different. A big and affectionate “thank you” to Peet Ellison who wrote and illustrated a new Timbertwig adventure for this Members’ Edition, and an equally big and affectionate “thank you” to original reader George Layton for agreeing to narrate the new instalment. This Members’ Edition is a dream come true for all Story Teller fans, but with Peet and George’s participation, it becomes so much more: a priceless treasure we never even dared to find.
Last but not least, I thank Eaglemoss for giving this publication their blessing. They own the rights to Story Teller and we are privileged to be able to use the name and their support.
Enter once again the magical world of Story Teller.
Antonio Pineda
Creator of the ST Facebook Group
