Auntie Jo Jo's Library

Every year on September 19th, people all around the world celebrate by saying things like “Ahoy, matey!” and “Shiver me timbers!” But where did this silly holiday come from? In this history-sode, we'll discover how two friends invented International Talk Like a Pirate Day in 1995, how it grew from an inside joke to a worldwide tradition, and why it reminds us that sometimes the best holidays are the ones that make us laugh and use our imaginations.Sources:International Talk Like a Pirate Day – Wikipedia“All the Fun and Important Holidays in September” – AFA Education Blog

One autumn evening in the town of Willowbend, Thomas discovers something strange hanging high in the branches of the old oak tree—a lantern that glows with a mysterious light. When he and his friend Lily climb up to touch it, the lantern bursts with magic, letting them hear the whispers of the world around them: squirrels gossiping, roots humming, and even stars beginning to sing. Together, they promise to keep its secret safe, guarding their “library of voices” hidden in the branches above.

Backpacks may seem like a simple school essential, but their history stretches back thousands of years. From ancient hunters carrying supplies in animal skins, to Roman soldiers with leather packs, to the invention of the zippered backpack in 1938, these handy bags have always been a part of human life. In this history-sode, we'll explore how kids used to carry their books with straps instead of bags, how the yellow pencil revolution inspired colorful, stylish backpacks, and even how modern versions can charge your devices!Sources:“Backpack” – Britannica Kids (history of carrying packs and early school use).John C. Cunningham's 1938 invention of the zippered backpack: Smithsonian / hiking history archives.“Book straps before backpacks” – Smithsonian National Museum of American History.Brand history: Faber-Castell (on the spread of writing tools, pencils and packs for school).Cultural history of yellow pencils and school supplies: Pencils.com

In today's story, we'll meet a little cloud who feels left out because everyone else seems to have a name, children, birds, even airplanes! Determined to find one for herself, she floats across mountains, oceans, and forests, asking each what she should be called. But when she drifts over a meadow full of children, she discovers something magical: she doesn't need just one name. She can be many things to many people - soft as a feather, watery as raindrops, or even shaped like a bunny or a ship!

Why do we say this when a secret is revealed?Sources used:Oxford English Dictionary (OED) – historical citations for “let the cat out of the bag” and idiom notesMerriam-Webster Dictionary – idiom entry and usage historyEtymonline (Online Etymology Dictionary) – discussion of proposed origins and early attestationsThe Phrase Finder – idiom background, “pig in a poke” connectionSmithsonian Magazine (language/etymology features) – context on idioms with uncertain origins

Wren returns to the Hall of Hidden Wonders - a magical place that feels alive, changing each time she visits. The man in the green coat is waiting, and today he has a challenge: find her spark, the gift that proves she belongs here.

There's a tiny tool in your backpack with a giant history. In this kid-friendly history-sode, Auntie Jo Jo traces the pencil's journey from a 1500s graphite discovery in England to the first wooden pencils in Germany, the invention of the rubber eraser, and why so many pencils are painted yellow.We'll also peek at how pencils helped soldiers, artists, and even early astronauts put ideas on paper—anywhere.Sources used:Encyclopaedia Britannica — “Pencil” (history, materials, manufacturing)Smithsonian Magazine — “Why Are Pencils Yellow?” (branding and 19th-century graphite trade)Royal Society of Chemistry — Joseph Priestley and the discovery of “rubber” for erasing (1770)NASA History Office — Early writing tools in space (pencils and later pressurized pens)Henry Petroski, The Pencil: A History of Design and Circumstance (Knopf)

Wren Calder has always been good at staying invisible: at home, at school, even in the crowded hallways where louder voices take up all the space. But on a quiet afternoon in the school library, she stumbles upon something she was never meant to see: a brass lantern glowing faintly in the dustiest corner of the shelves.When she lifts it, the shelves shift to reveal a hidden staircase… and a doorway into a place beyond anything she's imagined. Talking books, rope bridges of paper cranes, and a man in a green coat who seems to know her name and insists she's here for a reason.One question echoes in Wren's mind: What's a spark… and could she really have one?

Auntie Jo Jo's Library opens her library to a very special guest! This episode I sat down with author Christine Devane to talk about her children's book, Elephant Beach.Christine shares how she brings her story to life during classroom readings and community events, and we explore the ways introverts and extroverts experience stories differently. We also talk about the invaluable role of your local public library. From storytime to countless free resources. Christine gives us a sneak peek into her next project, a heartfelt book about navigating grief.Upcoming Children's Author Fair at Hummingbird Books- August 23, 2025. Learn more about Christine Devane and her work: http://www.christine-devane.com/Purchase through Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Elephant-Beach-Christine-Devane/dp/1665765763Purchase through Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/elephant-beach-christine-devane/1147288164

Popcorn and movies go together like peanut butter and jelly but how did this crunchy, buttery snack become a star at the theater? Sources used:National Popcorn Board – History of PopcornSmithsonian Magazine – How Popcorn Became a Movie Theater StapleHistory.com – The History of PopcornLibrary of Congress – The Great Depression and Popcorn SalesThe New York Times – Popcorn's Long and Storied Past

On the first day of seventh grade, Sam expects the usual: new classes, new teachers, and probably a forgotten locker combination. What he doesn't expect is for a strange brass key to tumble out of his locker!

Why does school start in late summer and end in late spring? And who came up with the idea of school in the first place? Sources used:PBS Learning Media – A History of School in AmericaNational Park Service – Early Public Education in the United StatesNational Geographic Kids – History of Schools Around the WorldSmithsonian Magazine – Why Schools Have Summer VacationUNESCO – Global School Year Calendars

Mara's favorite place is the old oak tree growing right along her backyard fence . It's the one spot where she can think, dream, and just be herself. At home, it's easy to feel invisible, especially when her parents don't seem to hear what she's really saying. But when a new neighbor named Quinn shows up on the other side of the fence, the tree becomes more than a hiding place.This heartfelt middle-grade story explores boundaries, feeling understood, and the small moments that help us find our voice.

Irish wakes are unlike any other tradition—where laughter meets loss, and the community gathers to carry grief together. In this episode, we explore the origins of the Irish wake, its roots in Celtic beliefs, the role of storytelling, and why some wakes felt more like celebrations than funerals. A beautiful blend of history, heart, and healing.Sources Used:Irish Central: “The History of the Irish Wake”National Folklore Collection, University College DublinBBC: Irish Mourning Traditions“The Irish Wake: History and Meaning” by Kevin DanaherMuseum of Country Life, County Mayo

On a quiet farm in the Irish countryside, Owen is the only one who can connect with Windy, a wild gray pony that refuses to be tamed. But when the wind begins to whisper secrets only Owen can hear, the boy and the horse discover something ancient running through the hills.

Why do people call Limerick the City of the Broken Treaty? In today's history-sode, we travel back to 1690 and 1691, when the people of Limerick stood strong during two major sieges. Discover the bravery behind the walls, the treaty that was signed—and broken—and how a single stone became a symbol of both hope and heartbreak.Sources Used:Limerick Museum: https://limerickmuseum.ieHistory Ireland: “The Treaty of Limerick”BBC Bitesize: Irish Conflicts TimelineIrish Central: The Wild Geese and Irish Military HistoryShannon Heritage: King John's Castle Archives

Cara thought her family's summer trip to Ireland would be quiet… until the old lighthouse blinked back to life in the middle of the night. When she investigates, she finds a glowing journal, whispers from the past, and a message meant just for her. A mystery set on the cliffs of County Clare, where stories—and light—never really disappear.

Have you ever wondered why there's a Republic of Ireland and a Northern Ireland—even though they share the same island? This episode gently explains how history, religion, and politics shaped two governments, and why today's Ireland is a place of both memory and peace. Kid-friendly and easy to follow, this episode breaks down borders with curiosity and care.Sources Used:BBC Bitesize: “Northern Ireland and Ireland – What's the Difference?”Britannica Kids: Ireland vs. Northern IrelandUK Government Education PortalIrish Government ArchivesGood Friday Agreement Summary (Children's Rights Alliance)

Every afternoon in Dublin's St. Stephen's Green, a boy named Finn listens to a street musician who seems to play music that matches his feelings. When the flute passes into Finn's hands, he discovers that the right notes can do more than make music—they can change hearts.A modern Irish story about the magic of music, empathy, and connection.

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.