It’s the same old story: You’ll try just about anything to keep your kids away from the boob tube.

And if it involves putting pen to paper, all the better.

Distract them the write way with The Stapler Caper, a new book from Dallas mom Cindy Ray.

This hardcover wordless book makes writing fun. Colorful characters called the Do-Writes encourage little ones to pen their own stories. Budding Hemingways get inspiration from the cast introduction at the beginning of the book and vivid illustrations on each page.

All it requires is a little imagination.

And that, they already have. End of story.

Available online at thestaplercaper.com.

SCARE
Boo at the Zoo
What: Go dressed in costume and enjoy ghoulish games, creepy treats, pumpkin carvings, and lots of animals.
Why: A howling good time.
When: Fri.-Oct. 29. Daily, 5:30-8 p.m.
Where: Fort Worth Zoo, 1989 Colonial Pkwy., Fort Worth (817-759-7500). Tickets online at fortworthzoo.org.

Halloween Spooktacular
What: Free musical performances, face painters, balloon artists, and jugglers.
Why: Get tricked and treated.
When: Sat., noon-6 p.m.
Where: CenterPark at NorthPark Center, 8687 N. Central Expwy. (214-363-7441).

TRAVEL
Worldfest
What: Immerse the family in the cultures of Asia, Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas.
Why: No passport required.
When: Sat., noon-10 p.m.
Where: Addison Circle Park, 4970 Addison Cir., Addison (800-233-4766).