Auntie Jo Jo's Library

More than 1,200 years ago, a group of monks created one of the most breathtaking books in the world—by hand. In this episode, we journey to Trinity College in Dublin to discover the Book of Kells, a masterpiece of art, language, and devotion. Learn how this ancient manuscript was made, why it was hidden from danger, and what it still teaches us about the power of imagination and preservation.Sources Used:Trinity College Dublin: https://www.tcd.ie/library/manuscripts/book-of-kells.phpBBC History: “The Monks Who Made the Book of Kells”Irish Times ArchivesNational Museum of IrelandThe Book of Kells: A Masterpiece of Medieval Art (Harper Collins)

On a cliffside in Ireland, a young shoemaker named Neal lives a quiet life—until one stormy night when a pair of strange boots appear on his doorstep… and a note from “The Good Folk” changes everything. As Neal works by candlelight, he discovers that kindness, craftsmanship, and a little magic might be more connected than he thought. A whimsical story inspired by Irish fairy lore and the legends of Skellig Michael.

Down in the Outer Banks of North Carolina lies Ocracoke Island, where the accent sounds like it's from another time and another continent.In this special U.S.-Irish history-sode, we explore how Irish and Scottish settlers helped shape the unique Ocracoke Brogue, and how families like yours may have carried old-world language into a new coastal life.Sources Used:North Carolina Language and Life Project (NCLLP)"Hoi Toide on the Outer Banks" by Walt Wolfram & Jeffrey ReaserNational Park Service: Ocracoke HistoryHyde County Historical RecordsRootsIreland.ie and Colonial Land RecordsIrish & Scottish Immigration Patterns to the American South (University of North Carolina Archives)

Maeve never believed her gran's warnings about the old rowan tree at the edge of the forest—until one summer afternoon when she touched its bark and slipped through time. Now, with only three sunrises to return home, Maeve must navigate the past, make a new friend, and unlock the secret of the tree's quiet promise. A gentle magical tale inspired by Irish folklore.

In 1666, a small bakery fire on Pudding Lane turned into one of the most destructive disasters in London's history. In this history-sode, we explore how the Great Fire of London raged for four days, destroyed over 13,000 homes, and reshaped the city forever. We'll also uncover how fear and rumors fueled blame—and why the fire may have helped stop the plague.Sources Used:Diary of Samuel Pepys (1666), public domainMuseum of London Fire Exhibition ArchivesUK National Archives: "The Great Fire of London"BBC History: “What Caused the Great Fire?”Historic Royal Palaces: https://www.hrp.org.uk

When Carmen is sent to spend the summer in her mom's sleepy hometown, she expects boredom, bad Wi-Fi, and endless pine trees. But an old teal bike with a mind of its own has other plans. Each ride takes her closer to forgotten places, unexpected stories—and a side of her mom she's never known. A heartwarming tale about memory, family, and how some paths find you.You can always email me at auntiejojoslibrary@gmail.com if you have story suggestions or just want to say hi!

Why do we celebrate summer with scoops of mint-chip or swirls of rainbow sherbet? In this breezy “history-side,” Auntie Jo Jo traces ice cream's journey from:Ancient experiments – snow mixed with milk and rice in China (200 BC) foodunfolded.com and Emperor Nero's fruity snow cups in Rome (54 AD) frozendessertsupplies.comRoyal European obsessions – secret gelato recipes guarded by Italian and French courtsFounding-Father fandom – Thomas Jefferson's handwritten vanilla recipe and George Washington's pricey sweet tooth monticello.orgAmerican innovations – the waffle-cone breakout at the 1904 St. Louis World's Fair idfa.org and the very first ice-cream truck jingling down Ohio streets in 1920 magazine.northeast.aaa.comPlus rapid-fire fun facts (ever heard of glow-in-the-dark ice cream?) and a reminder that July is National Ice Cream Month.So grab a spoon—history's never tasted so sweet!Sources used:• International Dairy Foods Association, “The History of the Ice Cream Cone” idfa.org• Monticello.org, “Ice Cream” entry on Thomas Jefferson monticello.org• Your AAA Network, “The History of Ice Cream Trucks” magazine.northeast.aaa.com• FoodUnfolded, “The History of Ice Cream: From Milk Ice to Magnums” foodunfolded.com• Frozen Dessert Supplies Blog, “A Sweet History of Ice Cream” (Emperor Nero) frozendessertsupplies.com

Stuck at her grandma's quiet beach house with no Wi-Fi, twelve-year-old Delia Martinez expects the slowest summer ever—until a mysterious hand-drawn map falls from a dusty library book.The X on the map leads her past the moonlit pier to a buried stone “tower” and a hidden door that clicks open at her touch. Inside waits the long-forgotten Sandcastle Society, a secret room filled with seashell mosaics and decades of kid-made journals begging for a new chapter.Join Delia as she redecorates the hideout, uncovers snapshots of summers past, and writes a riddle that will launch the next explorer's adventure. It's a story about finding friendship, chasing curiosity, and learning that even the loneliest vacation can sparkle with magic.

What do ancient emperors, grumpy British men, and Japanese samurai have in common?Umbrellas! In this 10-minute history-sode, Auntie Jo Jo takes you on a whirlwind tour through 4,000 years of umbrella history—from royal shade in ancient Egypt to being mocked in 1700s London.Learn how umbrellas became more than just tools for rainy days—and how they once symbolized power, scandal, and rebellion.Perfect for curious kids and adults around the world—rain or shine!British Library: “A Short History of the Umbrella”Smithsonian Magazine: “The Surprisingly Scandalous History of the Umbrella”National Museum of American History – Umbrella patents and folding innovationsThe Public Domain Review – Images and commentary on umbrella use in ancient art and cultureBBC Bitesize – Historical uses of umbrellas in British weather and societyHistory Today: “Jonas Hanway and the Umbrella Revolution”Japan Today / Nippon.com – Traditional wagasa umbrella historyThe Umbrella Shop (Australia & NZ) – Local culture and weather-adapted umbrella design

Summer has started… and Max and Rosie are ready for chaos, cereal, and no bedtime! But their parents? Well, they're just trying to survive until September. In this funny, feel-good story perfect for kids and grown-ups, Auntie Jo Jo shares a tale that celebrates the messy magic of summer—and pokes just a little fun at what it's like to parent through it. (Spoiler: it involves glitter, flip-flops, and cold coffee.)This story is great for kids around 5th grade and makes a fun listen for the whole family. Want us to return to The Secret Garden? Let me know in the comments!

On a hot summer day, there's nothing better than a chilly popsicle... but did you know it was invented completely by accident—and by a kid?In this refreshing history-sode, Auntie Jo Jo shares the story of 11-year-old Frank Epperson, who left his fruit soda mix outside one cold night in 1905 and woke up to find the first-ever frozen treat on a stick. From "Epsicle" to "Popsicle," discover how one happy mistake turned into a summertime favorite for kids everywhere.Popsicle® Official Website – History: https://www.popsicle.comNPR – "The Popsicle: Born of a Young Boy's Accidental Discovery"https://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2013/07/08/199431646/the-popsicle-born-of-a-young-boys-accidental-discoverySmithsonian Magazine – "A History of Frozen Treats"https://www.smithsonianmag.com/arts-culture/a-brief-history-of-frozen-treats-1120635/Mental Floss – "The Accidental Invention of the Popsicle"https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/50106/accidental-invention-popsicle

In this chapter, Mary Lennox continues her exploration of the mysterious Misselthwaite Manor and its secret garden. As winter begins to fade, signs of life return to the moor—and to Mary's spirit. She spots a curious bird, begins to understand the rhythms of nature, and senses that something magical is waiting just beyond the garden walls.This is a longer episode, so settle in for a cozy storytime filled with curiosity, fresh air, and a touch of wonder.✨ Chapter 11 starts at 00:53

In the summer of 1518, a woman stepped into the streets of Strasbourg and began to dance. She didn't stop for hours. Then days. Then weeks. Soon, hundreds had joined her—and some never stopped.In this episode of our history-sode series, we dive into the mysterious and very real Dancing Plague of 1518. Why did it happen? Could people really dance themselves to death? And how did an entire city respond to the chaos? You'll find out in this strange but true tale from the past.Waller, John. A Time to Dance, A Time to Die: The Extraordinary Story of the Dancing Plague of 1518. Icon Books, 2008.The Lancet, “Dancing Plague of 1518” (2004): https://www.thelancet.comHistory.com Editors. “The Dancing Plague of 1518.” History Channel, https://www.history.com/news/what-was-the-dancing-plague-of-1518Smithsonian Magazine. “The Dancing Plague of 1518.” https://www.smithsonianmag.com

In this episode, Mary continues to explore the mysteries of Misselthwaite Manor—and finally stumbles upon something magical. Join us for Chapters 9 and 10 of The Secret Garden, featuring a special guest reading of Chapter 10 by Amelia!

Did you know the ice cream cone wasn't always a thing? In this sweet History-sode, Auntie Jo Jo takes you back to the 1904 World's Fair, where a happy accident (and a nearby waffle vendor!) changed the dessert game forever. Learn how the cone became a handheld icon, hear about the folks who claimed to invent it, and discover a few fun facts to sprinkle on top of your day.Perfect for your commute or a cozy moment before bed, this 10-minute treat will leave you hungry for more history.Let's scoop into the past—together!Smithsonian Magazine: “The Surprisingly Short History of the Ice Cream Cone”https://www.smithsonianmag.comLibrary of Congress: “Who Really Invented the Ice Cream Cone?”https://www.loc.govNational Museum of American History: “A Delicious Invention”https://americanhistory.si.eduDoumar's Drive-In (Norfolk, VA) – Historical Backgroundhttps://www.doumars.comU.S. Patent No. 746,971: Italo Marchiony's Mold for Pastry Cup (1903)https://patents.google.com/patent/US746971Guinness World Records: “Most Ice Cream Scoops on a Single Cone”https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com

In today's episode, we continue our journey into The Secret Garden with Chapters 7 and 8. Mary begins to explore more of Misselthwaite Manor and its mysterious grounds—meeting new characters, hearing whispers of secrets, and uncovering more about the locked garden. The story is just beginning to bloom!This reading is a cozy continuation of the classic tale by Frances Hodgson Burnett. Perfect for winding down your day or sharing storytime with the family.Plus, there is a sweet little bonus at the end! Auntie Jo Jo shares her podcast trailer for her new podcast: Legacy Lore!

Bubble gum is more than just a chewy treat — it's a pop culture icon with roots that stretch back thousands of years. In this guest-hosted history-sode, Amelia unwraps the surprisingly sweet story of how ancient tree sap turned into the pink, stretchy, bubble-blowing favorite we know today. From ancient Greece to a Philadelphia accountant's happy accident in 1928, you'll learn how bubble gum went from practical chew to global sensation.This episode is read by Amelia - an AI generated voice through ElevenLabs. She is helping out Auntie Jo Jo while she takes some sick leave from the library. Sources:Smithsonian Magazine: The Invention of Bubble GumNational Geographic Kids: The History of Chewing GumAmerican Chemical Society: The Chemistry of Chewing GumWalter Diemer Obituary, New York Times Archives (1998)“Gum” entry, Encyclopedia Britannica

In this longer episode of Auntie Jo Jo's Library, we continue our journey through The Secret Garden with chapters 4, 5, and 6.

Where did the emergency word “Mayday” come from—and what does it have to do with the French language? In this History-Sode, Auntie Jo Jo explains how a clever radio officer in the 1920s invented the word that's now used around the world to call for help in serious situations.

This episode starts our journey into the world of mystery, friendship, and blooming wonders with The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett!Originally published in 1911, this beloved classic follows Mary Lennox—a lonely, stubborn girl who uncovers a hidden garden and discovers that sometimes, the best kind of magic is the kind that helps us grow.Join Auntie Jo Jo each week as we read a few chapters and watch the garden—and Mary—come to life.

From the 8-hour workday to peaceful protests that changed history, this episode gives young listeners a glimpse into how workers earned their rights and why we honor them every year on this important date.Sources:“The Haymarket Affair” – Chicago Historical SocietyEncyclopaedia Britannica: britannica.comInternational Labour Organization (ILO): ilo.orgHistory Channel: history.com

Auntie Jo Jo had so much fun last week putting a modern twist on an old class that she did it again!

Why do Canadians say "Eh"? In this episode of Auntie Jo Jo's Library, we're exploring the origins and meanings of this famous little word. From friendly chats to confirming facts, "Eh" is more than just a stereotype—it's a part of Canadian culture!Canadian Encyclopedia: thecanadianencyclopedia.caCBC Archives: cbc.caOxford English Dictionary: oed.com

This episode Auntie Jo Jo brings you a modern twist on last weeks story!

What happens when a giant beer vat bursts in the middle of London? In this episode of Auntie Jo Jo's Library, we're tapping into the bizarre story of the Great Beer Flood of 1814—a tidal wave of ale that swept through the streets!Museum of London: museumoflondon.org.ukBBC History: bbc.co.uk/historyHistoric UK: historic-uk.com

Hans Christian Andersen delights us with a story about an emperor who has an obsession with his fancy new clothes and spends lavishly on them.

Did you know that Boston once had a sticky disaster? In this episode of Auntie Jo Jo's Library, we're diving into the Great Molasses Flood of 1919—a day when a giant tank burst, sending a wave of syrup through the streets! Tune in for this unbelievable (and surprisingly sweet) piece of history.The Boston Globe Archives: bostonglobe.comBoston Historical Society: bostonhistory.orgNational Geographic: nationalgeographic.com

This episode we dive into a delightful read from the Brother's Grimm.

Let's explore one of New Zealand's most iconic phrases: "Sweet As!" Ever wondered why Kiwis say it and what it really means? Join me as we dive into the history and cultural significance of this quirky expression."The Kiwi Phrasebook" by David McGill (2008)New Zealand Ministry for Culture and Heritage, Te Ara Encyclopedia: https://teara.govt.nzVictoria University of Wellington - Linguistics Department: https://www.victoria.ac.nzNew Zealand Slang and Colloquialisms Guide: https://nzslang.com

Join Auntie Jo Jo as she reads a classic story by Beatrix Potter.

The Sydney Opera House is one of the most famous buildings in the world, but did you know its construction was one of the hardest projects in history? In this episode, Auntie Jo Jo shares the amazing story of how Danish architect Jørn Utzon designed this iconic landmark, the struggles to build it, and why it took 14 years to complete! PLUS—Jo Jo visited the Opera House last year and took a backstage tour! What goes on behind the scenes? What's it like to stand on the famous stage? Tune in to find out!

The evil King locks a Queen and her child up in the tallest tower. His hope his her child will be worthy enough to wed his son one day. However, a sweet little mouse has something else in mind.

Ever said “I hope this goes well—knock on wood!” and then tapped on a table? But why do we do that? In this episode, we uncover the ancient belief in magical tree spirits, the Celtic and Roman traditions, and why people thought knocking on wood could bring good luck and protection. Whether you believe in superstitions or just love a fun history mystery, this episode will have you tapping along! ✨

What happens when a wild hare hops into a Beekeeper's yard? Find out in this episode!

Have you ever wondered who invented the wheel and why it took humans so long to come up with the idea? In this episode, we're rolling back over 5,500 years to discover how the wheel started as a pottery tool before changing the world! From the first carts and chariots to modern bikes, cars, and roller coasters, we'll explore how this simple yet genius invention made everything move faster. Buckle up and get ready for a history-sode that keeps on rolling! Sources for Show Notes:

Auntie Jo Jo is back with another classic tale. This comes from Hans Christian Anderson. A Queen's son must embark on a journey and his mother provides him with some very solid advice.

Is there really a giant creature lurking in the waters of Loch Ness? In this episode, we dive into the 1,500-year-old mystery of the Loch Ness Monster! From ancient legends and the first recorded sighting to the famous (but fake!) photograph that fooled the world, we'll explore the science, the myths, and the wild theories about Nessie. Is she a dinosaur, a giant eel, or just a trick of the eye? Grab your diving gear and join Auntie Jo Jo as we uncover the truth!

This episode Auntie Jo Jo tells a classic tale of the Little Blue engine that gave her all! This story was written by Watty Piper.

Are you O.K.? Of course you are! You're listening to another History-Sode. Here are sources used while researching this episode: https://www.etymonline.com/word/OK? https://www.npr.org/2006/03/09/5170008/martin-vanhttps://www.etymonline.com/word/OK https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/how-one-man-discovered-the-obscure-origins-of-the-word-ok-180953258/

Let's take a break from Emmy and Ava and step into the mind of Scout, Auntie Jo Jo's dog! This story was written by Jo Saraceni for this podcast.

Did you know the Kiwi is the official bird of New Zealand? Sources used for this episode: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/article/rise-of-kiwi-bird-new-zealand https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/Everything-You-Thought-You-Knew-About-Kiwis-Has-Changed-180951556/

It's important to stand up for yourself. It can also be important to stop others from being a bully. We are all different and no one has the right to pick on us just because our shoes aren't brand new! Emmy struggles with standing up for Ava as a school bully picks on her. She is worried she will be the next target but then she learns that standing up for Ava is the right thing to do! This story was written by Jo Saraceni for this podcast.

It's raining cats & dogs......but not actual cats and dogs, right? Sources used during this research: https://www.historyextra.com/period/early-modern/why-do-we-say-raining-cats-and-dogs/ https://www.britannica.com/biography/Jonathan-Swift

Sleepovers can be scary! Going over to a new friend's house and spending the night outside of your own bed. But Emmy and Ava have a blast! This story was written by Jo Saraceni for this podcast.

Yummy! Let's take a big ole' bite out of a tasty little thing called the sandwich. How invented the sandwich and why? Sources for this episode: https://www.history.com/news/sandwich-inventor-john-montagu-earl-of-sandwich? https://theolddutchcupboard.com/the-storied-surprising-history-of-the-sandwich/

Emmy and Ava get paired up for their first tennis tournament. How much fun do you think they will have? This story was written by Jo Saraceni for use on this podcast.

Emmy has been working hard on a new and old hobby. She has branched out and met some new friends. Will she invite her new friends to help her celebrate her birthday? This Part 3 and Part 4 of a 4 Part story written by Jo Saraceni. Parts 1 and 2 were read on our previous episode.

Emmy's planned a great birthday celebration. Only problem is, no one has RSVP'd. Find out how Emmy chooses to celebrate her special day in this 4 Part story! This episode we are reading Part 1 and Part 2 of this 4 Part story written by Jo Saraceni.

Jack has the best view of the neighborhood from his bedroom window! He can see and hear all the kids playing....all the kids expect for Jack. He longs to join the kids but is afraid to ask. Will he join them? Find out in this episode. This story is written and read by Jo Saraceni.

Let's join Poppy on her Great Adventure with her human parents! This story was written and read by Jo Saraceni.

Find out how Mason resets himself after the busy holiday season. Auntie Jo Jo is happy to share this original story with you! The holidays can be busy. We always have somewhere to be and someone to spend time with. It's important to take time for yourself. Self-care if very important no matter what age! Find out how Mason resets himself after the busy holiday season.