This fantasy story for middle school kids explores setting goals, perseverance, and discovering your own path. Perfect for listeners who enjoy imaginative storytelling with meaningful life lessons. A thoughtful story for tweens who are learning about resilience, growth, and believing in themselves.

Discover the Silk Road in this engaging history-sode for kids. Learn how ancient trade routes connected Asia, Europe, and Africa, spreading goods, ideas, foods, and cultures across the globe. A fascinating history story about travel, trade, and how the ancient world became connected.

This magical story for upper elementary kids is about friendship, sharing, and learning that special things shine brighter when shared. Perfect for listeners who enjoy fantasy stories, cozy bedtime storytelling, and gentle lessons about kindness and connection.

Welcome to 2026 in Auntie Jo Jo’s Library.

In this special episode, I’m taking a moment to reflect on how the library has grown over the past six years, to thank you for listening, and to share what’s coming next. Whether you’ve been here since the beginning or you’re just finding your way in, I’m so glad you’re here.

This year, you’ll still find the cozy stories, Thursday History-Sodes, and calming moments that have become part of so many daily routines. But in 2026, I’m also adding something new.

On the last Sunday of every month, I’ll be sharing a calm, reflective story just for adults , a gentle space to rest, reconnect, and take a few minutes for yourself. These stories are my way of giving something back to the grown-ups who give so much, especially those who play this podcast for their kids and rarely pause for themselves.

I also share a bit about my other podcast, Legacy Lore, where season one is available now to listen straight through, with season two arriving in March 2026 and smaller episodes coming later this month and in February.

Mostly, this episode is simply a thank you.

Travel back to ancient Rome in this kid-friendly history-sode about Pompeii, the city preserved by a volcanic eruption. Learn how everyday Romans lived, what happened when Mount Vesuvius erupted, and how archaeologists uncovered a moment frozen in time. Perfect for curious kids who love history stories, ancient civilizations, and fascinating discoveries from the past.

A curious kitten learns the meaning behind each Kwanzaa principle as her family prepares for the celebration - unity, creativity, and community become her adventure.

Learn about Kwanzaa through a heartwarming tale of a playful cat discovering family, culture, and tradition. A beautiful story celebrating heritage and joy. ❤️🖤💚

Get ready for giggles! 🎄
This silly family-friendly story is a modern twist on the classic “12 Days of Christmas” - written for kids, parents, caregivers, classrooms, and cozy holiday listening.

In this fun countdown, the holidays get just a little chaotic with glitter spills, forgotten mittens, cold coffee, and big belly laughs. Whether you’re listening during storytime, a car ride, bedtime, or decorating cookies, this funny holiday episode brings smiles to kids and grownups.

Perfect for December listening, holiday traditions, and families who love funny stories, rhyming stories, Christmas stories, and winter storytime.

Enjoy a modern, family-friendly parody of the classic ’Twas the Night Before Christmas! This fun and silly holiday story is perfect for kids — and all the grownups listening along. With mischievous reindeer, tech glitches, cozy chaos, and Santa in true modern style, this playful retelling brings laughter, imagination, and holiday cheer to your December listening.

Perfect for bedtime stories, storytime, classroom listening, car rides, Christmas Eve traditions, or anytime you want a magical holiday moment together. 🎄✨

Discover the magic of the winter solstice in this gentle story about nature, light, and hope. A perfect peaceful bedtime story for cozy winter nights. A young girl named Luna worries the long winter nights will never end. A guiding owl teaches her about the solstice, how the darkest night is the beginning of the returning light.

Ever wondered how gingerbread became a holiday favorite? Learn how spices traveled across the world, why gingerbread became a decorated treat, and when gingerbread houses first appeared. A fun, tasty history lesson for kids and families.Sources:

• SmithsonianMag.com – History of Gingerbread

• Food Historian Tori Avey – Gingerbread Roots

• German National Bakery Archive Summary

• Britannica Kids – Gingerbread