Use vivid descriptions. For example, instead of saying 'it was dark', say 'the darkness was so thick it seemed to seep into my very bones like a living entity'. This makes the reader or listener feel the atmosphere more intensely.
Add some mystery elements. Let the character in the monologue wonder about things. Like 'I saw a figure, but it disappeared as quickly as it came. What was it? A memory from the past? A ghostly apparition? Or just my overactive imagination?' This makes the audience curious.
Use different voices for different characters in the story. It can add more drama and make it seem more real.
Use great visuals. If you're streaming, show some really spooky images like a haunted forest at night. Also, vary your voice tone. Make it low and mysterious when you're talking about the ghost.
You can add more characters and their backstories. That gives more depth and complexity to your story.
Start by looking at the plot and characters. Make sure the plot has a clear beginning, middle, and end, and the characters are well-developed and consistent.
You can add unexpected twists and turns. Surprise your readers to keep them hooked.
To make telling ghost stories more engaging, you can involve your audience. Ask them questions like 'What would you do if you were in this situation?' during the story. You can also draw on real - life experiences or local legends to make the story seem more believable. For instance, if there's an old abandoned building in your town, base your story around it. This makes the story more relatable and exciting for your listeners.
Use different voices for different characters. For example, a deep voice for a spooky ghost or a high - pitched voice for a scared victim. Also, add sound effects like creaking doors or howling winds in the background. This will make the fireside ghost stories more immersive and engaging.
Add personal details or experiences related to the ghost story. For instance, if you're telling a story about a haunted school, you could mention that you once felt a strange presence there when you visited at night. This makes it more believable and engaging.
Use different voices for different characters. If there's a ghost, make your voice low and spooky. For example, in 'The Legend of Sleepy Hollow', you can make Ichabod Crane's voice a bit nerdy and the Horseman's voice deep and menacing.
Make the setting vivid. Describe the campfire itself, how the flames are dancing and casting shadows. Then start building the world of the ghost story. Talk about the cold wind blowing through the trees in the story, the creaking of old doors if there are any in the plot. The more details you add to both the real campfire setting and the fictional story setting, the more engaged the kids will be.