Hail The All Powerful Goddess Of The Clouds

Yes that's right, you heard it correctly, I am the All Powerful Goddess of the Clouds, as announced by the talking throne. Though I probably look more like a witch than a Cloud Goddess. Not that I have much to compare with. Who's ever seen a Goddess of the Clouds in the flesh anyway? I did enjoy the red carpet walk up and the way he said Goddess was just perfect.

Wondering what the hell I'm going on about? (You're not alone.)

Don't look too threatening do I? Looks can be deceiving. 

Do you know how long it took me to decide on my official title? There were so many adjectives, so many places, so many nouns. I could have been anyone. You could be anyone! Dress up. Create. Imagine. Become. At The Story Museum. 

Yes, I finally made it - about a month before the amazing 26 Characters exhibit is due to close - to Oxford and the zany cluster of houses that is The Story Museum. It is a proverbial rabbit warren of colourful quirky spaces, alternate worlds, and offers much in the way of escape and exploration for all ages. 

I went on a Friday lunch time and was one of few adults milling around in their lunch breaks. This only heightened some of the worlds I was walking into. Believe me, it makes a difference wandering into Narnia, half expecting the White Witch to jump out at you when you're by yourself. I watch a lot of horror films and you do have these weird creepy thoughts as you're going around - well I did. I mean wouldn't that have been perfect? Author disappears in the Story Museum after wandering into Narnia. Alone. 

All joking aside, this exhibit is crammed full of some of the most beloved UK and International Children's authors transforming into their favourite literary characters. In each room you get to experience that character and are inserted into their world, giving a true sense of being transported with every step. 

I strongly urge anyone who hasn't been yet, to hop on the train and go as soon as possible, and even if you're by yourself as a thirty something adult and you feel a little self-conscious, get in the dress up room and get your talking throne on. You won't regret it. 

After your visit, you can chill in the lovely cafe and peruse the book shop, where you are guaranteed to want at least eighty percent of the stock. You can also pick up the guide to the exhibit, which is £5 cheaper when you show your ticket. 

The exhibit runs until the 22nd February, on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, so there's still time to follow the trail, complete your stamp sheet - yay, even the adults get one. Score! - and enjoy these 26 Characters. 

Now bow down to me. I am the All Powerful Goddess of the Clouds, after all. 

Rants

More details at the official Story Museum site: http://www.storymuseum.org.uk/