Making It Up - by Christopher Mannino (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

"Yes, and . . ." Explore how the principles of theatre and improv can help parents engage in imaginative play with their children with actor and theater teacher Christopher Mannino.

Just ask a certain animated blue dog we all love: Play-centered parenting is what every young child wants and needs, yet it's hard to manage in today's busy, hectic world.

How can real-life parents with real responsibilities and stresses drop everything to be silly with their kids? You don't need to be a trained actor to engage in your child's imaginative world. It's easier than it sounds, and far more powerful than you can imagine.

With the techniques found in Making It Up, accompanied by playful illustrations from Cory Reid, you'll have more energy, more confidence, and a stronger relationship with your kids in just ten minutes a day. And you might just find yourself having fun!

Review Quotes

"An energetic book that encourages and models connection-building for parents through fun and imagination, extending the realm of possibility whilst teaching boundaries. It models simple ways to have quality time together in the most natural way, and encourages building positive parent-child relationships. A unique heart-warming book."

--Jennifer Briffa Desjardins, president of ADHD Malta (1/6/2026 12:00:00 AM)

"Christopher's techniques will help you engage in play with your child in a way that builds imagination. Whether your kid dreams of fantastic dragons, silly adventures, or everyday activities, this book will help you find a way to connect and create stories together."

--Tracey West, NYT Bestselling author of over 200 children's books, including the Dragon Masters series (8/13/2025 12:00:00 AM)

"Makes a convincing case that engaging in imaginative play with kids is an essential way for parents to combat stress and bond as a family. [Christopher] Mannino argues that the foundational 'yes, and' mindset of improv can provide a jumping-off point for caretakers and their children to shake off self-consciousness and get creative. . . . Mannino's optimistic, inquisitive approach and concrete suggestions will help parents rediscover the thrill of imagination."

-- "Publishers Weekly" (10/31/2025 12:00:00 AM)

"Refreshing, exuberant, and levelheaded. . . . Making It Up is a delightful, accessible parenting guide with recommendations for incorporating creativity, respect, and wonder into playtime."

--Kristen Rabe "Foreword Reviews" (11/17/2025 12:00:00 AM)

About the Author

Christopher Mannino began his writing journey after becoming stranded on a cliff in Cornwall, at the legendary birthplace of King Arthur. He watched the sunrise over castle ruins and was inspired to write The Scythe Wielder's Secret. Since then, he's written 30 books. He is one of Business Insider's most read writers, with over 4.5 million readers. Before leaving teaching to raise his children as a stay-at-home dad, he was a theater teacher and improvisation coach.