Jelly's Last Jam

Activity — Tell Your Story, Preserve Your Legacy

Jelly’s Last Jam is a story about memory and legacy. As Jelly Roll Morton looks back on his life, we see the things that have shaped him: successes, failures, important people, important events, and more. We also see him contemplate how he has left his mark on the world, and how his story will be remembered.

In this activity, you’ll start to think about the people, places, and events that have shaped who you are today–as well as how you want your story to be told.

Create a Timeline

On the timeline below, mark the starting line with the day you were born, and the final line with today’s date. Using the other spaces, think of 3-5 key events in your life so far that have shaped your story. You can answer the questions provided, or you can think of another important event from that period of time. Write it down and add a few details.

Pre-School (ages 3–5)

• What is your happiest memory from this time?
• What is a “first” you remember?
• What was your favorite food?

Elementary School (ages 6–10)

• Who was your favorite teacher?
• What was the best day you had?
• What was the most interesting place you ever visited (in your city or somewhere else)?

Middle School (ages 11–14)

• What was your proudest moment?
• Who was your closest friend?
• What was your favorite song?

High School (ages 15 – now)

• What is your favorite book?
• What is your favorite subject in school?
• What is a challenge you have overcome?