Summer Reading
2026
BOOK Your
Library Show
Summer Reading Storytelling Programs for 2026:
Give your families a front row seat to high energy, interactive storytelling that joyfully boosts literacy and keeps families returning to the library all summer long
Summer reading storytelling performances invite kids & familes into an immersive folktale experience where literacy & imagination jumps off the page through a multi-sensory celebration that combines performance, response, puppets and hands-on art projects.
Your families not only get creative together at the library, but they walk away with a story-centric art project that will help them retell the story at home!
By bringing Summer Reading Storytelling to your library, you deliver a memorable literacy, arts, and social emotional learning program that reflects your commitment to family engagement, creativity, and a positive culture of reading and human connection.
The Reviews Are In
“Rachel's master storytelling makes kids remember that it's okay to be silly, especially when they're sharing a great story!
— Emmalee Kuhlman, Children's Librarian Tremont Branch NYPL“It was like the Taylor Swift concert of storytimes!”
— Mary Alexander, Children's Librarian San Mateo Public LIbrary“Rachael was extremely fun and engaging with the kids and parents.”
— Wayne Walters, Children's Librarian Harry Belefonte Branch NYPL
Shadow puppets bring a folktale to life during a storytelling show.
Out-loud literacy & creativity that leaves Kids & families chanting, “One more story!”
Got any Dinosaur stories for this summer’s theme?
Yes! If your library is using the “Unearth a Story” theme, I’ve got a vibrant set of stories called “The Great Story Stomp”!
We’re not using the “Unearth a Story” theme. Can we still book you?
Yes! Check out my other set story programs below, or reach out with your theme needs and I’ll create a custom summer reading performance!
What Sets Summer Reading Storytelling Apart
Active and engaged creativity
Kids and families don’t just passively listen to the story, they also help to tell and act out the story!
A Novel Way To Experience Story
In today’s world, kids & families don’t often get the gift of sitting for an extended moment to activate their deep listening & imagination. Rachael’s old school storytelling with a high energy twist invites listeners to actively participate in story in a way they rarely get to experience!
The story doesn’t end when your event wraps
At the end of each summer reading storytelling performance, kids & families create an art project that becomes a storytelling tool that they can take home to help them retell the stories they just enjoyed: think puppet and masks and more!
Imaginations fly and memories are created as the audience is invited to co-create the story!
Interactive storytelling lights up your space with laughter.
The JOY during a summer reading storytelling performance is palpable! Bring this unique experience to your summer programming!