Episodes
Bear is quite sure he doesn't like visitors. He even has a sign. So when a mouse taps on his door one day, Bear tells him to leave. But when Bear's relentless house guest refuses to leave, he learns just how pleasant it is to share tea for two. Written by Bonny Becker Illustrated by Kady MacDonald Denton Musical Credit: "The Funny Bunch" by Giulio Fazio Buy the book HERE --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/samantha-wanagel/support
Published 04/30/24
Published 04/30/24
This story's lyrical text introduces young readers to a distinctively different Arctic culture, as a child tests the limits of independence and comfortingly learns that a parent's love is unconditional and everlasting. Written by Barbara M. Joose Illustrated by Barbara Lavallee Musical Credit: "Eskiden" by Arnito Buy the book HERE --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/samantha-wanagel/support
Published 03/13/24
Join Stellaluna, a young fruit bat, as she learns her true identity thanks to the help of an accepting family of birds. by Janell Cannon Musical Credit: "Not That Easy" by Soundroll Buy the book HERE --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/samantha-wanagel/support
Published 02/26/24
Rhyming, joyful verse and vibrant illustrations describe young Jesse Bear's activities from morning to bedtime. Written by Nancy White Carlstrom Illustrated by Bruce Degen Musical Credits: "Morning Dew" by Arthur Vyncke Buy the book HERE --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/samantha-wanagel/support
Published 02/15/24
This illustrative masterpiece is especially comforting to children because it shows parents as caretakers, protectors, and teachers. Additionally, by relying on the kindness of others, this family of Mallard ducks eventually finds safety in a prominant Americn landmark. Ideal for reading aloud, this book deserves a place of honor on every child's bookshelf. By Robert McCloskey Musical Credit: "Excusez-Moi?" by Roo Walker Buy the book HERE --- Support this podcast:...
Published 02/10/24
A luminous story that will transport you to the seaside where the daily life of a reliable lighthouse keeper and his family unfolds. This historical story highlights the innerworkings of a steadfast lighthouse and all that was necessary to keep its reassuring light burning bright. By Sophie Blackall Musical Credit: "Stargaze" by The Lakes Buy the book HERE --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/samantha-wanagel/support
Published 01/24/24
Armed only with an oversized purple crayon, young Harold takes our imagination for an exciting adventure through woods, bustling cities, across seas and past dragons before returning to bed, safe and sound.  By Crockett Johnson Musical Credit: "Hiccup Waltz" by Giulio Fazio Buy the book HERE --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/samantha-wanagel/support
Published 01/10/24
This beautiful story of a parent's unsurpassable love is one of the world's best-loved picture books, capturing the hearts of children and adults alike decade after decade. Written by Sam McBratney Illustrated by Anita Jeram Musical Credit: "Seaside Jaunt" by Oliver Massa Buy the book HERE --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/samantha-wanagel/support
Published 01/05/24
This touching Appalachian tale, which takes place during the first World War, reminds us that the courage and power of a family is as joyful and timeless as Christmas itself. These are happy tears, I promise! Written by Gloria Houston Illustrated by Barbara Cooney Musical Credit: "Tamazula" by Ilyia Buy the book HERE --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/samantha-wanagel/support
Published 01/01/24
On Christmas Eve, a father catches an unexpected and magical glimpse of St. Nicholas himself. Along with his eight reindeer, Santa is here to fill the family's stockings with toys. Thanks to this author's classic tale, St. Nick's quick visit also brings us nostalgic sentiments of wonder and joy. * With so many different versions of this book in print, please note the page turning cues may not match the book in front of you. Nonetheless, the classic poem will remain the same across all...
Published 12/15/23
In this sparkling and adventurous tale, a small boy experiences the joy of a snowy day. Written and Illustrated by Ezra Jack Keats Musical Credit: "No Time For Games" by Soundroll Buy the book HERE --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/samantha-wanagel/support
Published 12/15/23
One by one, a whole host of different animals and birds find their way out of the cold and into Bear's cave to warm up. See what happens when he finally wakes up and finds his cave full of uninvited guests -- all of them having a party without him! Written By Karma Wilson Illustrated by Jane Chapman Musical Credit: "Lazy Sunday Afternoon" by Northwestern Buy the book HERE --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/samantha-wanagel/support
Published 11/30/23
The Grinch and his hapless dog Max visit Who-ville with nefarious intentions. But after their attempts to ruin Christmas fail, the Grinch soon realizes that Christmas is much more than boxes and bows. By Dr. Seuss Musical Credits: "Christmas Mischief" by Floor Model, "Playfully" by V. Draganov, "He's Definitely Up To Something" by Fernweh Goldfish Buy the book HERE --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/samantha-wanagel/support
Published 11/27/23
A young girl has waited years to join her father on his winter owling expedition. Together they search for the elusive nighttime bird that calls to them. This award winning story shines a light on the comfort and fulfillment we find in spending quality time with someone very special to us. Written by Jane Yolen Illustrated by John Schoenherr Musical Credit: "Forget" by Lesfm Buy the book HERE --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/samantha-wanagel/support
Published 11/22/23
At first, suspicious of unexpected animal visitors, a delightfully crafted plan unites Maine's townsfolk with some very special circus refugees. The quickly formed bond saves many lives, forming a magical island community. Written and Illustrated by Chris Van Dusen Musical Credit: "Animals At The Horizon" by BatchBug Buy the book HERE --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/samantha-wanagel/support
Published 11/15/23
This memorable baby bird's quest to find his mother reminds us how truly special it is to have a sense of belonging. Written and Illustrated by P.D. Eastman Musical Credit: "Daybreak" by Justin Lee Buy the book HERE --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/samantha-wanagel/support
Published 11/03/23
Gratitude and kindness pay off for these pals when disaster strikes. This light-hearted and rhyming tale reminds us that making room on our broom for others might just save the day when the wind picks up. Written by Julia Donaldson Illustrated by Axel Scheffler Musical Credit: "Circus Monkey" by Alexander Nakarada Buy the book HERE --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/samantha-wanagel/support
Published 10/19/23
Jim Panzee is having such a terrible day. Everyone in the jungle offers advice on how to loosen up, but Jim can't seem to make things right. Luckily, his loyal friend Norman reminds him it's OK to just feel what we feel. Written by Suzanne Lang Illustrated by Max Lang Musical Credit: "Holiday" by MaxKoMusic Buy the book HERE --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/samantha-wanagel/support
Published 09/30/23
Rosalba and Abuela find themselves on a marvelous journey above New York City. Narrated in English with a beautiful sprinkle of Spanish phrases, this dazzling adventure will literally uplift your spirits. Written by Aurthur Dorros Illustrated by Elisa Kleven Musical Credit: "Wanderlust" by Scott Buckley Buy the book HERE --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/samantha-wanagel/support
Published 09/19/23
When Mr. Plumbean paints his house, the neighbors from "neat street" can't believe their eyes. This story celebrates how perfectly unique one person is from another and emphasizes the importance of accepting those differences. By Daniel Manus Pinkwater Musical Credit: "Where No Man Has Set Foot" by Vlad Gluschenko Buy the book HERE --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/samantha-wanagel/support
Published 09/02/23
Everybody's favorite little tractor shows us the importance of friendship and loyalty in this best selling classic. By Loren Long Musical Credits: "Tenderness" by FSM Team --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/samantha-wanagel/support
Published 08/04/23
Lloyd is a curious creature who learns from fellow baby animals exactly who his mama really is. These rhyming riddles are sure to thrill your little one. By Deborah Guarino Musical Credits: "Friends Forever" by FSM Team --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/samantha-wanagel/support
Published 07/08/23
An adventurous little bear realizes he doesn't have to be perfect to find his forever home. By Don Freeman Musical Credits: "Calling Home" by Alex-Productions --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/samantha-wanagel/support
Published 06/30/23
Strega Nona's magical everfull pasta pot is especially intriguing to hungry Big Anthony. His temptation for fame lands him in a pile of trouble- literally. By Tomie dePaola Musical Credits: "Bella Ciao" by Julius H --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/samantha-wanagel/support
Published 05/24/23