Dorktales Storytime | Stories for Kids Who Love Big Adventures

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A story of innovation and self-determination! Lewis Latimer was an American inventor, patent draftsman and artist whose work included the detailed drawings for Alexander Graham Bell’s telephone. He improved Thomas Edison’s light bulb so it could last longer and be accessible to more homeowners. He earned seven patents for his own inventions that helped people with their day-to-day lives and, in his personal life, he enjoyed painting, playing the flute and creative writing. Lewis Latimer left behind a brighter world for us all!

Go to the episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/lewis-latimer/   

NOTE FOR GROWNUPS: There are so many things we can learn from today’s Hidden Hero of History, Lewis Latimer. Our episode focuses on his many achievements and contributions to the world. But there are more of his stories and family history to uncover, and important discussions to have with your families. If you’re interested in learning more, check out these resources:

• Lewis Latimer House Museum: https://www.lewislatimerhouse.org/
• Smithsonian Institution: https://invention.si.edu/innovative-lives-lewis-latimer-1848-1928-renaissance-man 

If you liked this story about Lewis Latimer, you may also like Episode 15 on George Washington Carver, an American agricultural scientist, botanist, and inventor: https://jonincharacter.com/george-washington-carver/

CREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Molly Murphy. Special thanks to Octavia Kane for voicing Fawna Freckles. All other characters are performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings.

Support the show

GROWNUPS: Dorktales Storytime is more than a Kids and family stories for kids podcast. Every visit to our Once Upon a Time world invites kids to discover reimagined fairy tales, fables, Greek myths, mysteries, fantasy adventures, pirate adventures, bedtime stories, Halloween stories, dinosaur stories, spy adventures, and inspiring stories about historical figures and STEAM pioneers. We believe a well-told story brings families together, opens the door to meaningful conversations, and helps every child know they belong and their imagination can change the world.

REACH OUT!

• Does your child have a question? Send it to us here.
• We love our fans! Find free goodies: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktalesfans/
• Support Our Storytime for Kids pod: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1267991/supporters/new 
• Music & Lullabies: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

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Ahoy, me hearties! Hop aboard Captain Edgarrr Matey's ship for an epic journey to Davey Jones Diner and the Plot Hook islands—where the seafaring folk sing shanties and tell tales of lost pirate booty. Armed with a secret map, our Folktale Forest friends go hunting for Swashbuckle Joe’s buried riches. When they're greeted by his gregarious ghost, he leads them to the precious treasures he values the most. 

Episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/the-tale-of-swashbuckle-joe/

SUMMARY: Captain Edgarr Matey takes Jonathan and Mr. Redge are on a pirate adventure! After he tells them about the pirate, Swashbuckle Joe, they arrive at Davey Jones' Diner, a gathering place for seafaring folk, where they find the map that could lead them to Swashbuckle Joe's hidden treasure. Off they sail to the mysterious and haunted island, The Plot Hook, where they meet Barniecle, a talking barnacle, who points them to a small cave in The Plot Hook. As they venture deeper into the cave, they encounter the ghost of Swashbuckle Joe himself.

To their surprise, Swashbuckle Joe reveals that his true treasure is the time spent with his ghostly crew, singing, dancing, and enjoying each other's company. The characters join in the celebration and realize that the journey and the memories made are more valuable than any material treasure.

PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: Overall, the story encourages us to find treasure in the intangible aspects of life, such as friendships, adventures, and the appreciation of the present moment, rather than solely chasing material wealth.

If you liked this story, you may also enjoy episode 69, Eel for One and One for Eel, a daring adventure with the three Hedgeketeers: https://jonincharacter.com/eel-for-one/

Dorktales Storytime Podcast website:  https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/

CREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written and produced by Molly Murphy. All characters are performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings.

Support the show

GROWNUPS: Dorktales Storytime is more than a Kids and family stories for kids podcast. Every visit to our Once Upon a Time world invites kids to discover reimagined fairy tales, fables, Greek myths, mysteries, fantasy adventures, pirate adventures, bedtime stories, Halloween stories, dinosaur stories, spy adventures, and inspiring stories about historical figures and STEAM pioneers. We believe a well-told story brings families together, opens the door to meaningful conversations, and helps every child know they belong and their imagination can change the world.

REACH OUT!

• Does your child have a question? Send it to us here.
• We love our fans! Find free goodies: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktalesfans/
• Support Our Storytime for Kids pod: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1267991/supporters/new 
• Music & Lullabies: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

Send us Fan Mail

There’s a serious problem in the community garden! The beloved apple tree is in a sad state, and Redge worries there won’t be apples for snacking, pie baking and cider making in the fall. Abracadabra! Alakazam! In swoops Zinnia Fig riding on a cluster of wild onions to declare the tree is experiencing the dreaded DROOP. Can the Folktale Forest’s favorite hedge witch use her practical earthly magic to cast out its doldrums and bring on the blooms?

Episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/zinnia-fig-and-the-droop/     

SUMMARY: Jonathan and Redge are enjoying a beautiful day in the community garden. They notice the apple tree, which should be blooming already, doesn’t look happy so they call upon Zinnia Fig, the Folktale Forest’s hedge witch, who says the tree is experiencing a sad state known as “The Droop.”

Zinnia explains that sometimes trees need to feel their way through sadness and offers support and encouragement to the tree. They fertilize the ground and speak kind words to the tree, which starts to show signs of improvement. The flowers on the tree begin to bloom again, and Zinnia assures them that with care, the tree will fully recover. Grateful for Zinnia's help, Jonathan and Redge express their appreciation, and Zinnia performs a final incantation to bring joy to their day.

PARENTS, TEACHERS, HOMESCHOOLERS:  Overall, the story promotes themes of friendship, patience, positivity, acceptance, collaboration, and a deep appreciation for the beauty of nature. It encourages kids to cultivate a sense of wonder and respect for the environment while fostering a supportive and caring community. 

If you liked this story, you may also enjoy Episode 50: The Magical Doorway, where Jonathan enters the land of Once Upon a Time and meets his best hedgehog friend, Mr. Reginald T. Hedgehog: https://jonincharacter.com/the-magical-doorway/

Dorktales Storytime Podcast website:
https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/

CREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written and produced by Molly Murphy. All characters are performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings.

Support the show

GROWNUPS: Dorktales Storytime is more than a Kids and family stories for kids podcast. Every visit to our Once Upon a Time world invites kids to discover reimagined fairy tales, fables, Greek myths, mysteries, fantasy adventures, pirate adventures, bedtime stories, Halloween stories, dinosaur stories, spy adventures, and inspiring stories about historical figures and STEAM pioneers. We believe a well-told story brings families together, opens the door to meaningful conversations, and helps every child know they belong and their imagination can change the world.

REACH OUT!

• Does your child have a question? Send it to us here.
• We love our fans! Find free goodies: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktalesfans/
• Support Our Storytime for Kids pod: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1267991/supporters/new 
• Music & Lullabies: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

Send us Fan Mail

Ready to find your new favorite podcasts? It’s a Summer Sampler time! Dorktales Storytime is a proud member of Kids Listen, a non-profit organization advocating for great children’s podcasts. Because summer is a great time to try out new things, we thought you might enjoy trying out a selection of different Kids Listen member podcasts. This episode features small tastes of shows to pique your curiosity, stretch your imagination, tickle your funny bone, and help you find calm. 

Here is a list of featured podcasts for kids:

• Girl Tales: www.girltalespodcast.com
• Book Club for Kids: http://www.bookclubforkids.org
• Like You: www.likeyoupodcast.com
• Power Dog Adventures: https://www.powerdogadventures.com/
• Unspookable: www.soundsingtonmedia.com
• Stoopkid Stories: https://stoopkidstories.com/
• Peace Out: www.peaceoutpodcast.com
• What If World: http://www.whatifworldpodcast.com/
• Dorktales Storytime Podcast: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/
• Fina Mendoza Mysteries: http://finamendozamysteries.com
• Newsy Pooloozi: https://www.newsypooloozi.com/

We featured our story “Alice in Slumberland” sampler in this sampler. Find the full episode here: https://jonincharacter.com/alice-in-slumberland/

CREDITS: This episode was produced by Lynn Hickernell, Kids Listen board member, creator of the Good Words Podcast, and producer for What If World podcast. Audio transitions by Dan Saks of the Noodle Loaf Show. Learn more about Kids Listen: https://www.kidslisten.org/

Support the show

GROWNUPS: Dorktales Storytime is more than a Kids and family stories for kids podcast. Every visit to our Once Upon a Time world invites kids to discover reimagined fairy tales, fables, Greek myths, mysteries, fantasy adventures, pirate adventures, bedtime stories, Halloween stories, dinosaur stories, spy adventures, and inspiring stories about historical figures and STEAM pioneers. We believe a well-told story brings families together, opens the door to meaningful conversations, and helps every child know they belong and their imagination can change the world.

REACH OUT!

• Does your child have a question? Send it to us here.
• We love our fans! Find free goodies: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktalesfans/
• Support Our Storytime for Kids pod: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1267991/supporters/new 
• Music & Lullabies: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

Send us Fan Mail

A story of boldly going where no one had gone before! Nichelle Nichol’s role as Lieutenant Uhura in the original Star Trek series was groundbreaking. Civil rights leader, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. praised her work for defying stereotypes and revolutionizing portrayals of Black individuals on television. Her influence and advocacy for more diversity at NASA sparked new interest in space travel and helped to recruit brilliant STEM talents like Dr. Sally Ride, Colonel Guion Bluford, and Mae Jemison.

SUMMARY: While Jonathan and Mr. Redge are at the Once Upon a Time Con, they come across an artist booth called Deep Space Drawings by Deanna. They meet Deanna, who is a fan of Star Trek and has created artwork inspired by the series. They share Nichelle Nichols story and her role as Lieutenant Nyota Uhura and how it was one of the first non-stereotypical portrayals of a Black woman on television. They also talk about how Martin Luther King Jr. convinced Nichelle Nichols to stay on the show because of the positive impact her character had on the civil rights movement. Besides her role as Uhura, Nichelle Nichols also created new interest in space exploration and opened the doors of opportunity for more people of color to work at NASA. 

Impressed by Deanna's art and inspired by the story of Nichelle Nichols, Redge decides to purchase some of Deanna's paintings. He declares himself a Trekkie and expresses his eagerness to explore space. The episode concludes with the hosts and Deanna bidding farewell and wishing each other to "live long and prosper." They then head to the Cosplay competition, with Redge's dragon costume expected to be a top contender.

Go to the episode webpage:https://jonincharacter.com/nichelle-nichols/ 

If you liked this story about a hidden hero of history who inspired space exploration, you may also like Episode 5 on Mary Golda Ross, whose pioneering work helped put humans into space: https://jonincharacter.com/mary-golda-ross/

CREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Molly Murphy. Special thanks to Madison Smith from All Things Madison and ShopMadisonLauren.com who voiced the character, Deanna. All other characters are performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings.

Support the show

GROWNUPS: Dorktales Storytime is more than a Kids and family stories for kids podcast. Every visit to our Once Upon a Time world invites kids to discover reimagined fairy tales, fables, Greek myths, mysteries, fantasy adventures, pirate adventures, bedtime stories, Halloween stories, dinosaur stories, spy adventures, and inspiring stories about historical figures and STEAM pioneers. We believe a well-told story brings families together, opens the door to meaningful conversations, and helps every child know they belong and their imagination can change the world.

REACH OUT!

• Does your child have a question? Send it to us here.
• We love our fans! Find free goodies: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktalesfans/
• Support Our Storytime for Kids pod: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1267991/supporters/new 
• Music & Lullabies: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

Send us Fan Mail

From swashbuckling Musketeers' swordplay to good deed doing, our Folktale Forest friends are having a rousting adventure as the “Three Hedgeketeers.” But what started out as a rollicking good time by the lake has turned into a sinister soaking splash fight! Will hot tempers ruin the fun? Or will their "all for one, and one for all" oath to each other ultimately save the day?

PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: This original tale takes young listeners into the Dorktales version of a Three Musketeers story. One of the characters resorts to being mean when they feel left out of a day of fun but has the opportunity to express their feelings. There's a lesson in the power of being inclusive and inviting others to join in the fun. 

Episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/eel-for-one/ 

If you liked this story, you may also enjoy Episode 68 Where’s Wabbitson where Moray-eel-arty makes his debut as Sherlock’s archnemesis who gets blamed for Wabbitson’s mysterious disappearance: https://jonincharacter.com/wheres-wabbitson/

Dorktales Storytime Podcast website:
https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/

CREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Amy Thompson and edited and produced by Molly Murphy. All characters are performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings. 

Support the show

GROWNUPS: Dorktales Storytime is more than a Kids and family stories for kids podcast. Every visit to our Once Upon a Time world invites kids to discover reimagined fairy tales, fables, Greek myths, mysteries, fantasy adventures, pirate adventures, bedtime stories, Halloween stories, dinosaur stories, spy adventures, and inspiring stories about historical figures and STEAM pioneers. We believe a well-told story brings families together, opens the door to meaningful conversations, and helps every child know they belong and their imagination can change the world.

REACH OUT!

• Does your child have a question? Send it to us here.
• We love our fans! Find free goodies: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktalesfans/
• Support Our Storytime for Kids pod: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1267991/supporters/new 
• Music & Lullabies: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

Send us Fan Mail

The game's afoot again, but this time the great squirrel detective, Sherlock Nettlesbee, is feeling too frantic to solve an important mystery. His trusty companion, John Wabbitson, is missing! Presuming the worst, Sherlock is convinced that it’s the fiendish work of the evil Moray-eel-arty. Can he remain calm and follow the clues to the right conclusion? Or will worry slither him into his scariest thoughts?

PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: This original tale takes young listeners into the Dorktales version of a Sherlock mystery. There is a lesson on what happens when you let your fears get the best of you, causing you to make assumptions and leap to the wrong conclusions. This is what happens to Sherlock, a character who is very methodical and thoughtful, but fears the worst when his best friend, Wabbitson, appears to be missing. He does the right thing when he asks his friends for help.

Episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/wheres-wabbitson/   

If you liked this Sherlock Nettlesbee story, you may also enjoy Episode 51 Mary Had a Little Yes, And. Sherlock joins Jonathan and Mr. Redge in an afternoon of imagination and good old-fashioned make believe: https://jonincharacter.com/mary-had-a-little-yes-and/

Dorktales Storytime Podcast website:
https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/

CREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Amy Thompson and edited and produced by Molly Murphy. Special thanks to Eric O’Keeffe from What If World podcast for voicing Sherlock Nettlesbee. All characters are performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings.

Support the show

GROWNUPS: Dorktales Storytime is more than a Kids and family stories for kids podcast. Every visit to our Once Upon a Time world invites kids to discover reimagined fairy tales, fables, Greek myths, mysteries, fantasy adventures, pirate adventures, bedtime stories, Halloween stories, dinosaur stories, spy adventures, and inspiring stories about historical figures and STEAM pioneers. We believe a well-told story brings families together, opens the door to meaningful conversations, and helps every child know they belong and their imagination can change the world.

REACH OUT!

• Does your child have a question? Send it to us here.
• We love our fans! Find free goodies: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktalesfans/
• Support Our Storytime for Kids pod: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1267991/supporters/new 
• Music & Lullabies: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

Send us Fan Mail

No snow, rain, heat nor gloom of night will keep Harold the Hare Mail carrier and Reginald T. Hedgehog from heralding the news across Once Upon a Time! They hop on board the O.U.T.P.S. (Once Upon a Time Postal Service) truck to spend the day chugga-chugga, honk, HONKing across the Parchment Pass. Ride along as they enjoy many sights and meet great citizen critters while dutifully delivering the mail throughout Mythdom, Litropia, the Typographic Islands and beyond.

PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: This original tale takes young listeners into Dorktales’ fantastical immersive world of “Once Upon a Time” to encourage their creativity and expand their imaginations. After listening to this story, here are some questions you can ask:

• What was your favorite stop on the Once Upon a Time Postal Service’s route?
• Who was your favorite character who got their special delivery?
• If you were able to stop in Once Upon a Time for a visit, what would you like to do there?

 Episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/special-delivery/  

If you liked this story that takes you into Dorktales’ imaginary land, you may also like Episode 50 The Magical Doorway. It’s how Jonathan discovered Once Upon a Time and Mr. Redge became his best hedgehog buddy and storytelling pal: https://jonincharacter.com/the-magical-doorway

Dorktales Storytime Podcast website:
https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/

CREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written and produced by Molly Murphy. All characters are performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings.

Support the show

GROWNUPS: Dorktales Storytime is more than a Kids and family stories for kids podcast. Every visit to our Once Upon a Time world invites kids to discover reimagined fairy tales, fables, Greek myths, mysteries, fantasy adventures, pirate adventures, bedtime stories, Halloween stories, dinosaur stories, spy adventures, and inspiring stories about historical figures and STEAM pioneers. We believe a well-told story brings families together, opens the door to meaningful conversations, and helps every child know they belong and their imagination can change the world.

REACH OUT!

• Does your child have a question? Send it to us here.
• We love our fans! Find free goodies: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktalesfans/
• Support Our Storytime for Kids pod: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1267991/supporters/new 
• Music & Lullabies: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

Send us Fan Mail

Taylor the Valley Hen is new to the neighborhood, and even though she’s got plenty to be proud of, she’s still nervous about making new friends. When the giants hear about her spectacular six-grain feat, they invite her to boogie down at the biggest bash ever! Taylor fears she’ll look foolish at the party and no one will like her. Will her nerves get the best of her, or will she find the courage to be herself and dance her way into some wonderful new friendships?

• WEBPAGE: https://jonincharacter.com/the-valley-hen-taylor/
• FAN PAGE FUN: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktalesfans/ 
• DOWNLOAD WORKSHEET/COLOR PAGE: https://bit.ly/dorktales66funsheet 
• GRAB YOUR FREE PDF list of conversation questions for this episode: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/ep66freePDF 

PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: This Dorktales Storytime stories for kids episode is a reimagined fairy tale based on Grimm’s The Valiant Taylor. It’s about finding the courage to make new friends in a new situation and not letting fear of rejection stop you. Taylor builds her own self-confidence by recognizing her own strengths and deciding to  be herself rather than trying to impress others. The giants model how being welcoming and accepting can help newcomers feel comfortable enough to be themselves. 

IF YOU LIKED THIS STORY about a brave hen, you may also like this stories for kids episode about an overly anxious hen in EP26 The Great Acorn Incident.  It’s our reimagined folk tale traditionally known as Henny Penny or Chicken Little: https://jonincharacter.com/the-great-acorn-incident/ 

CREDITS: This episode is a Jonincharacter production. It was written by Amy Thompson, produced by Molly Murphy and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Pacific Grove Soundworks.

Support the show

GROWNUPS: Dorktales Storytime is more than a Kids and family stories for kids podcast. Every visit to our Once Upon a Time world invites kids to discover reimagined fairy tales, fables, Greek myths, mysteries, fantasy adventures, pirate adventures, bedtime stories, Halloween stories, dinosaur stories, spy adventures, and inspiring stories about historical figures and STEAM pioneers. We believe a well-told story brings families together, opens the door to meaningful conversations, and helps every child know they belong and their imagination can change the world.

REACH OUT!

• Does your child have a question? Send it to us here.
• We love our fans! Find free goodies: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktalesfans/
• Support Our Storytime for Kids pod: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1267991/supporters/new 
• Music & Lullabies: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

Send us Fan Mail

A story that will open your eyes to scientific imagination! Dr. Patricia Bath was an ophthalmologist, inventor, and humanitarian who was dedicated to bettering the lives of others. She began in her teens by making an important discovery about the relationship between cancer, nutrition, and stress. Eye health became her priority as a doctor and she made sure care was accessible for those in underserved communities. Dr. Bath’s life was filled with achievements, including becoming the first Black female doctor to receive a patent. Her invention, a laser device to treat a common eye condition, restored the sight of many who had been blind for more than 30 years!

Go to the episode webpage:https://jonincharacter.com/dr-patricia-bath/

If you liked this story about a hidden hero of history in medicine, you may also like Episode 53 on Dr. Kazue Togasaki, the first Japanese American women to become a doctor in the United States: https://jonincharacter.com/kazue-togasaki/

CREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Molly Murphy and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings.

Support the show

GROWNUPS: Dorktales Storytime is more than a Kids and family stories for kids podcast. Every visit to our Once Upon a Time world invites kids to discover reimagined fairy tales, fables, Greek myths, mysteries, fantasy adventures, pirate adventures, bedtime stories, Halloween stories, dinosaur stories, spy adventures, and inspiring stories about historical figures and STEAM pioneers. We believe a well-told story brings families together, opens the door to meaningful conversations, and helps every child know they belong and their imagination can change the world.

REACH OUT!

• Does your child have a question? Send it to us here.
• We love our fans! Find free goodies: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktalesfans/
• Support Our Storytime for Kids pod: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1267991/supporters/new 
• Music & Lullabies: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music