The articles in this volume provide an insight into the richness of narrative. In the process they focus on two main areas: oral narrative as part of everyday interaction and the acquisition of narrative abilities as part of more comprehensive discursive competencies. From a linguistic perspective, the variance of the narrative form also points to the esthetic dimensions of literary narrative. The concept of this volume is derived from the work of Uta Quasthoff, whose 65th birthday prompted its creation and publication.