In this warm and insightful Parenthoot Spotlight episode, we sit down with JoAnne Saldanha, known fondly as Myth Aunty — an educator, storyteller, and children’s literature advocate whose mission is to bring myths, legends, and stories alive for children and parents alike.

JoAnne speaks about reading not as a skill but as an act of connection — between parent and child, story and self. She shares her deep belief that stories shape empathy, confidence, and imagination, and that the most powerful thing a parent can do is simply start reading aloud.

JoAnne also unpacks what happens when we let go of “right” and “wrong” ways to read, how children’s questions (even the wild ones) reveal comprehension, and why storytelling in your mother tongue anchors cultural identity. Her reflections on contemporary children’s books, Indian publishers, and the joy of finding stories that “click” will leave listeners inspired to rediscover the magic on their own bookshelves.

Why You Should Listen

• For parents discovering the joy of reading aloud. JoAnne demystifies storytelling and reminds us that children love our voices more than perfect pronunciation.
• For educators and book lovers. Her insights on children’s comprehension, story connection, and visual learning will transform how you view literature.
• For anyone overwhelmed by “reading lists.” JoAnne helps you trust your instincts, read what resonates, and avoid comparison-driven choices.
• For cultural connection. She celebrates the power of myths, folk tales, and mother-tongue storytelling as bridges between generations.
• For perspective and laughter. From poking fun at SEO-driven content to heartfelt reflections on storytelling’s rewards, this episode balances humour with wisdom.

Resources and References

Children’s Books Mentioned

• The Tiger Who Came to Tea — Judith Kerr
• Where the Wild Things Are — Maurice Sendak
• We’re Going on a Bear Hunt — Michael Rosen & Helen Oxenbury
• The Gruffalo — Julia Donaldson
• The Dot — Peter H. Reynolds
• Gajapati Kulapati series — Ashok Rajagopalan

Recommended Indian Publishers and Platforms

• Pratham Books — Affordable multilingual stories rooted in Indian contexts.
• StoryWeaver — Free, open-access platform by Pratham Books.
• Tulika Publishers — Pioneers in bilingual and multicultural children’s books. (https://www.tulikabooks.com)
• Duckbill Books — Engaging Indian fiction for middle-grade readers. (https://www.penguin.co.in/community/about-us/publishing-divisions/childrens-publishing-2/duckbill/)
• Puffin India — Classic and contemporary titles for all ages. (https://www.penguin.co.in/community/about-us/publishing-divisions/childrens-publishing-2/puffin/)
• Bookaroo Children’s Literature Festival — India’s premier celebration of children’s books and authors.(https://www.instagram.com/bookaroolitfest)

Themes and Takeaways

• Storytelling is connection, not performance.
• Reading in your mother tongue deepens identity and emotion.
• Respect children as readers — they deserve quality, not shortcuts.
• Let curiosity guide book choices instead of trends.
• Comprehension is creativity — even “off-topic” questions are insight.
• Reading aloud builds empathy, vocabulary, and memory.
• Joy is the benchmark — if both reader and listener enjoy it, it’s the right book.

Follow The Myth Aunty on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mythaunty and discover more about her storytelling sessions, book recommendations, and resources for families and educators.

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