The Book Nook By Play Academy

We’re so excited to be back with another amazing story voiced by children’s book author, and co- founder of Kunda Kids. Kunda Kids brings African stories to life! Award-winning books, music & media that make early learning joyful, empowering & proudly cultural. We're so grateful to Kunda Kids for so graciously sharing this story with us.✨Credits✨Story courtesy of: Kunda KidsVoiced By: Oladele OlafuyiEpisode Production: Verge GroupSound Design: Marcus GarveyDownload the Kunda Kids app to access more stories or visit kundakids.com to learn more about Kunda Kids and where you can find their books.Submit A StoryWe'd love to hear your little one's story or feedback. Feel free to leave us a voice note on our Spotify or DM us on Instagram. We love hearing from our little listeners!Enjoyed this story?The Booknook is a true labour of love created alongside running a small business and raising a family. If this story brought a little calm, joy, or connection into your day, you can help us keep the magic going. You’re welcome to support the podcast with a donation via M-Pesa Till 9066503, which helps us cover coordination, recording, and production behind the scenes.We’re also opening up space for community support. If you’re someone who enjoys organising, coordinating readers, sourcing stories, or even hosting an episode now and then and you’d love to be part of growing this village we’d love to hear from you.Reach out to us at [email protected] you for listening, for sharing, and for being part of our story.

Thabo’s make-believe world has no room for his little sister, Keitu. But she has other ideas! If you could be something else for a day like the boy in the story, what would you choose? Let us know in the comments!✨Credits✨This book was created at a Book Dash event in Cape Town on 28 June 2014. It is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 Licence (CC BY 4.0).Written by: Lauren BeukesVoiced By: Makena MurungiEpisode Production: ⁠⁠Verge Digital ⁠⁠⁠Sound Design: Marcus GarveyThis is brought to you by Kids Clothes - An e-commerce platform for brand new quality kids clothes - delivered fast. Right in time for back to school shopping. Love the story? Read this ebook and many others on ⁠⁠bookdash.org⁠⁠  and please consider supporting our podcast to keep us going (PS there are many FREE ways to do it too!) ✨Follow us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss an episode ✨Share your favourite stories with friends and family - this helps us rank higher for more kids to discover us  ✨Join our ⁠⁠book subscription service⁠⁠ (Kenya) to receive 2 books every month ✨Follow us on Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠@booknook.ke⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠@playacademy.africa⁠⁠⁠ for updates on upcoming events

Rekai only loves to eat pancakes, so Mom finds a way to make them even better!✨Credits✨Written by: Mikhaila CrowtherVoiced By: Fiona Nyongo Episode Production: ⁠⁠⁠Verge Digital ⁠⁠⁠⁠Sound Design: Marcus GarveyCreated at a Book Dash event in Cape Town on 5 March 2016. Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 Licence (CC BY 4.0). Read the story here.Love the story? Read this ebook and many others on ⁠⁠⁠bookdash.org⁠⁠⁠  and please consider supporting our podcast to keep us going (PS there are many FREE ways to do it too!) ✨Follow us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss an episode ✨Share your favourite stories with friends and family - this helps us rank higher for more kids to discover us  ✨Join our ⁠⁠⁠book subscription service⁠⁠⁠ (Kenya) to receive 2 books every month ✨Follow us on Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠⁠@booknook.ke⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠@playacademy.africa⁠⁠⁠⁠ for updates on upcoming events

Kabi and Sasha are playing outside. Kabi and Sasha are playing outside. Sasha lies down and sees a red spot among the stars. This is the start of an interesting story about Mars.The Martians is a STEM children’s book by Little Einsteins under the series STEM Adventures of Kabi and Sasha.Through the adventures of Kabi and Sasha children will learn fun facts in STEM in a book by us, for us. Little Einsteins East Africa seeks to inspire and teach students about the world of science, technology, engineering and math through entertaining hands-on activities. Their aim is to guide a new generation of young science explorers through genuine passion in learning how the world works and they have exciting programs for kids of all ages to join. Check out the Little Einsteins website   or instagram page to order the book or learn more about this amazing initiative! They've got some great programmes for the April Holidays!✨Credits✨Written by: Wambui MurimiVoiced by: Kavindu Mbathi, Musembi Mbathi, and their mum and Founder of Little Einsteins, Mugure Njendu.Episode Production: Verge Digital ⁠Sound Design: Marcus GarveySubmit A StoryWe'd love to hear your little one's story or feedback. Feel free to leave us a voice note on our Spotify or DM us on Instagram and we may work to bring their story to life and publish it as a bonus episode.Enjoyed this story?Help us keep it going and bring more magic your way consider donating via MPESA Till 9066503 or Paypal ⁠[email protected]⁠ . More ways to support us: ✨Follow us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify and share our stories so you never miss an episode. It also helps other families find us!✨If you’re an author and would love to share your story, reach out to us on the contacts on our Instagram page ✨Join our book subscription service (Kenya) to receive 2 books every month ✨Follow us on Instagram - ⁠@booknook.ke⁠ | ⁠@playacademy.africa⁠ for updates on upcoming events

Brave Little Lion is ready for his first hunting lesson. Follow his adventure. This is one of many stories by Kunda Kids who thoughtfully design resources for parents, educators, and children. They blend world-class storytelling with playful, research-backed learning tools. By celebrating the beauty of diversity and inspiring curiosity, they’re empowering a new generation of confident, culturally aware global citizens.✨Credits✨Voiced By: Oladele Olafuyi, co-founder of Kunda KidsEpisode Production: Verge Digital ⁠Sound Design: Marcus GarveyVisit the Kunda Kids website to learn more about them and where you can find their books in Kenya and worldwide. Download the Kunda Kids app on the Appstore and Playstore to access more stories like these.Enjoyed this story?Help us keep it going and bring more magic your way. Consider donating to MPESA Till 9066503 or Paypal ⁠[email protected]⁠  Other ways to support: ✨Follow us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss an episode  ✨Share your favourite stories with friends and family✨If you’re an author and would love to share your story, reach out to us on the contacts on our instagram page ✨Join our book subscription service (Kenya) to receive 2 books every month  ✨Follow us on Instagram - ⁠@booknook.ke⁠ | ⁠@playacademy.africa⁠ for updates on upcoming events

Do you know Mr Sloth? He’s quite good at climbing. He knows how to swing. But sleeping’s his favourite, favourite thing!✨Credits✨Written by: Corinne Lamoral RosmarinVoiced By: Laka WaithakaEpisode Production: Verge Digital ⁠Sound Design: Marcus GarveyCC 4.0Love the story? Read this ebook and many others on bookdash.org Listen to LALA (Love and Lullabies Africa) on Spotify or Apple Music Submit A StoryWe'd love to hear your little one's story or feedback. Feel free to leave us a voice note on our Spotify or DM us on Instagram and we may work to bring their story to life and publish it as a bonus episode. Enjoyed this story?Help us keep it going and bring more magic your way. Consider donating via MPESA Till 9066503 or Paypal ⁠[email protected]⁠ Other ways to support us: ✨Follow us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss an episode ✨Share your favourite stories with friends and family ✨Join our book subscription service (Kenya) to receive 2 books every month  ✨Follow us on Instagram - ⁠@booknook.ke⁠ | ⁠@playacademy.africa⁠ for updates on upcoming events

It is one week until Thato’s Birthday. His mama tells him he will have a big surprise. What will it be? ✨Credits✨ Written by: Corinne Lamoral Rosmarin Voiced By: ⁠Laka Waithaka⁠ Episode Production: ⁠Verge Digital ⁠⁠ Sound Design: Marcus Garvey CC 4.0 ⁠Listen to Love And Lullabies Africa, LALA⁠ The music features the undeniably brilliant talents of Laka Waithaka and Manasseh Shalom. The blend of vocal and saxophone melodies and harmonies over ethereal African guitars and percussion is the perfect soundtrack to your time with your little one. Love the story? Read this ebook and many others on ⁠bookdash.org⁠   ✨Follow us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss an episode  ✨Share your favourite stories with friends and family  ✨Join our ⁠book subscription service⁠ (Kenya) to receive 2 books every month  ✨Follow us on Instagram - ⁠⁠@booknook.ke⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠@playacademy.africa⁠⁠ for updates on upcoming events

Hats off! Dudu and Dumisani have made up a new game. Ssh! Don’t tell Teacher. ✨Credits✨ Written by: Sarah McGregor Voiced By: Rotimi Olawale  Episode Production: Verge Digital ⁠ Sound Design: Marcus Garvey CC 4.0 Love the story? Read this ebook and many others on bookdash.org  Submit A Story We'd love to hear your little one's story or feedback. Feel free to leave us a voice note on our Spotify or DM us on Instagram and we may work to bring their story to life and publish it as a bonus episode.  Enjoyed this story? Help us keep it going and bring more magic your way. Here’s how  ✨Follow us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss an episode  ✨Share your favourite stories with friends and family  ✨Join our book subscription service (Kenya) to receive 2 books every month -  ✨Follow us on Instagram - ⁠@booknook.ke⁠ | ⁠@playacademy.africa⁠ for updates on upcoming events

About The Story Shaka, was the strong and brave leader of the Zulu Empire. He’s a great king, but when it comes to dancing he still has lots to learn, and the Zulu disco is days away. Shaka Zulu, Learns to Dance is a rhyming story introducing you to a groovy and influential leader. This a fictional story based on a real-life King, Shaka Zulu, one of the most influential monarchs of the Zulu Kingdom, now modern-day South Africa. A special series perfect for introducing the next generation of young leaders, thinkers and game-changers to Africa’s great history. ✨Credits✨ Written by: Louisa & Oladele Olafuyi Voiced By: Oladele Olafuyi Illustrations: Irabor and Tiolu Yoloye Episode Production: Verge Digital ⁠ Sound Design: Marcus Garvey Download the Kunda Kids app to access more stories or visit kundakids.com to learn more about Kunda Kids and where you can find their books. Submit A Story We'd love to hear your little one's story or feedback. Feel free to leave us a voice note on our Spotify or DM us on Instagram and we may work to bring their story to life and publish it as a bonus episode.  Enjoyed this story? Help us keep it going and bring more magic your way. Here’s how  ✨Follow us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss an episode  ✨Share your favourite stories with friends and family  ✨Join our book subscription service (Kenya) to receive 2 books every month -  ✨Follow us on Instagram - ⁠@booknook.ke⁠ | ⁠@playacademy.africa⁠ for updates on upcoming events

Tone the raindrop is wondering what's way down there on the ground. She and her friend Nyunyu go on a journey to find out. ✨Credits✨ Written and voiced by: Edna Gicovi Episode Production: Verge Digital ⁠ Sound Design: Marcus Garvey CC 4.0 Love the story? Read this ebook and many others on bookdash.org and the best part, if you’re in Kenya, you can get a physical copy from Storytime KE at just 350 bob. Submit A Story We'd love to hear your little one's story or feedback. Feel free to leave us a voice note on our Spotify or DM us on Instagram and we may work to bring their story to life and publish it as a bonus episode. Enjoyed this story? Help us keep it going and bring more magic your way. Here’s how  ✨Follow us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss an episode  ✨Share your favourite stories with friends and family  ✨Click here to join our book subscription service (Kenya) to receive 2 books every month  ✨Follow us on Instagram - ⁠@booknook.ke⁠ | ⁠@playacademy.africa⁠ for updates on upcoming events

Little Goat wanders off to look for the sweet grass and doesn’t realise how far she is from Mother Goat. ✨Credits✨ Written by: Mirna Lawrence Voiced By: James Bukusi, Zain Nasser and Wangui Maina  Episode Production: Verge Digital ⁠ Sound Design: Marcus Garvey CC 4.0 Love the story? Read this ebook and many others on bookdash.org  Submit A Story We'd love to hear your little one's story or feedback. Feel free to leave us a voice note on our Spotify or DM us on Instagram and we may work to bring their story to life and publish it as a bonus episode. Enjoyed this story? Help us keep it going and bring more magic your way. Here’s how  ✨Follow us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss an episode  ✨Share your favourite stories with friends and family  ✨Join our book subscription service (Kenya) to receive 2 books every month  ✨Follow us on Instagram - ⁠@booknook.ke⁠ | ⁠@playacademy.africa⁠ for updates on upcoming events

Kabi and Sasha are playing outside. It suddenly starts raining. The Children become curious about rain. It is the start of an interesting story. A Rainy Sunset Is a STEM children’s book by Little Einsteins under the series STEM Adventures of Kabi and Sasha. Through the adventures of Kabi and Sasha children will learn fun facts in STEM in a book by us, for us. Little Einsteins East Africa seeks to inspire and teach students about the world of science, technology, engineering and math through entertaining hands-on activities. They aim to guide a new generation of young science explorers through genuine passion in learning how the world works and they have exciting programs for kids of all ages to join. Check out their website or Instagram pages to order the book or learn more about this amazing initiative! ✨Credits✨ Written by: Wambui Murimi Voiced by: Kavindu Mbathi, Musembi Mbathi, and their mum and Founder of Little Einsteins, Mugure Njendu. Episode Production: Verge Digital ⁠ Sound Design: Marcus Garvey Submit A Story We'd love to hear your little one's story or feedback. Feel free to leave us a voice note on our Spotify or DM us on Instagram and we may work to bring their story to life and publish it as a bonus episode. Enjoyed this story? Help us keep it going and bring more magic your way. Here’s how  ✨Follow us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss an episode  ✨Share your favourite stories with friends and family  ✨Join our book subscription service (Kenya) to receive 2 books every month -  ✨Follow us on Instagram - ⁠@booknook.ke⁠ | ⁠@playacademy.africa⁠ for updates on upcoming events

Tortoise sets off in search of his house. Along the way, he meets new friends to help him. But the sky is darkening, and lightning flashes in the distance. Will Tortoise find his house in time? ✨Credits✨ Written by: Maya Fowler Voiced By: Michelle ‘Shikie’ Wanjiku aka @misstiramisu  Episode Production: Verge Digital ⁠ Sound Design: Marcus Garvey CC by 4.0  Read this ebook and many others on bookdash.org  Book dash believes that “Every child should own a hundred books by the age of five” and create beautiful books that are contextually-relevant, open-licensed and cheap enough to get into the hands and homes of all children. Parents, be sure to check out Michelle’s page for amazing family, fashion, wellness and lifestyle content, as well as her podcast @unit.thepodcast which she hosts alongside her husband Shiv who also happens to have been a guest reader on our podcast too! Submit A Story We'd love to hear your little one's story or feedback. Feel free to leave us a voice note on our Spotify or DM us on Instagram and we may work to bring their story to life and publish it as a bonus episode. Enjoyed this story? Help us keep it going and bring more magic your way. Here’s how  ✨Follow us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss an episode  ✨Share your favourite stories with friends and family  ✨Follow us on Instagram - @booknook.ke | @playacademy.africa for updates on upcoming events

This is a story about a little ant with a big plan, and how his love for reading saved the day. ✨Credits✨ Written by: Candice Dingwall Voiced By: James Bukusi Episode Production: Verge Digital ⁠ Sound Design: Marcus Garvey CC by 4.0  Read this ebook and many others on bookdash.org  Book dash believes that “Every child should own a hundred books by the age of five” and create beautiful books that are contextually-relevant, open-licensed and cheap enough to get into the hands and homes of all children. Submit A Story We'd love to hear your little one's story or feedback. Feel free to leave us a voice note on our Spotify or DM us on Instagram and we may work to bring their story to life and publish it as a bonus episode. Enjoyed this story? Help us keep it going and bring more magic your way. Here’s how  ✨Follow us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss an episode  ✨Share your favourite stories with friends and family  ✨Follow us on Instagram - @booknook.ke | @playacademy.africa for updates on upcoming events or to learn more about our daily playpod for 6m-3year olds

The multi-talented Polycarp, who you may know as Fancy Fingers from one of Africa's biggest bands is this week’s guest reader with this powerful story about the naming ceremony of a newborn baby. Written in The Stars is ultimately a celebration of African culture. It is meant to inspire young men to be intentionally involved in their fatherhood journeys and intended to spark conversations around the purpose and meaning behind each name. ✨Credits✨ Written by: ⁠Melissa Wakhu⁠ and ⁠Polycarp Otieno⁠  Voiced By: Polycarp Otieno aka Fancy Fingers Illustrations: Mathew Omolo Episode Production: ⁠Verge Digital ⁠ Sound Design: Marcus Garvey Find more of Polycarp’s and Melissa’s books ⁠here⁠ in Kenya or ⁠Amazon⁠ for the rest of the world. Stream ⁠FancyFinger’s⁠ Music on all platforms including the album Father Studies, an ode to black fatherhood. Submit A Story We'd love to hear your little one's story or feedback. Feel free to leave us a voice note on our Spotify or DM us on Instagram and we may work to bring their story to life and publish it as a bonus episode. Have you enjoyed this story? Or the podcast in general? Don’t forget to hit follow and share it. ✨Follow us on Instagram - @booknook.ke | @playacademy.africa for updates on upcoming events or check out our 6m - 3 years daily playpod.

Why is Nita upside down?  Can she turn the right way round? Nita feels different and doesn’t fit in but after a chat with a close friend, she realises everyone is! And that’s what makes us special. This story is a wonderful celebration of individuality and encourages self-confidence. Even better Soreti Kadir’s soothing voice brings something distinct to the story that it’s hard not to be drawn in. ✨Credits✨ Written by: Roxana Bouwer Voiced By: Soreti Kadir Episode Production: Verge Digital  Sound Design: Marcus Garvey Read this ebook and many others on bookdash.org  Book Dash believes that “Every child should own a hundred books by the age of five” and create beautiful books that are contextually relevant, open-licensed and cheap enough to get into the hands and homes of all children. Have you enjoyed this story? Please help us keep it going and bring more magic your way. Here’s how  ✨Follow us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss an episode ✨ Support the author and voice artist by buying the book or listening to their podcast  ✨Share your favourite stories with friends and family  ✨Follow us on Instagram - @booknook.ke | @playacademy.africa for updates on upcoming parents and kids' events

Zoey loves finding things in the park. One day, she gets a big surprise. What could it be? Many thanks to Shiv Simani for lending his voice to this story. Shiv is Crossfit Coach, award-winning wellness influencer and co-host over at Unit The Podcast. Be sure to check it out! Credits Written by: David Mann Voiced By: Shiv Simani Episode Production: Verge Digital  Sound Design: Marcus Garvey Read this ebook and many others on bookdash.org  Book dash believes that “Every child should own a hundred books by the age of five” and create beautiful books that are contextually-relevant, open-licensed and cheap enough to get into the hands and homes of all children. Enjoyed this story? Please help us keep it going and bring more magic your way. Here’s how  ✨Follow us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss an episode ✨ Support the author and voice artist by buying the book or listening to their podcast  ✨Share your favourite stories with friends and family  ✨Follow us on Instagram - @booknook.ke | @playacademy.africa for updates on upcoming events

Buckle up for an exhilarating adventure beyond the stars with "Astronauts to the Moon," a captivating children's picture book perfect for readers aged 2-5 years. Join Ire, Atticat, and Teddy as they embark on a thrilling journey to space, exploring the vast wonders of the universe! "Astronauts to the Moon" not only celebrates the boundless creativity of children's minds but also introduces them to STEM concepts, space travel, and astronomy.  ✨Credits✨ Written by: Louisa Olafuyi & Oladele Olafuyi Voiced By: Oladele Olafuyi Illustrations: Francis Ude Episode Production: Verge Digital  Sound Design: Marcus Garvey Download the Kunda Kids app to access more stories or visit kundakids.com to learn more about Kunda Kids and where you can find their books and more! Submit A Story We'd love to hear your little one's story or feedback. Feel free to leave us a voice note on our Spotify or DM us on Instagram and we may work to bring their story to life and publish it as a bonus episode.  Enjoyed this story? Help us keep it going and bring more magic your way. Here’s how  ✨Follow us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss an episode ✨ Support the author by buying the book  ✨Share your favourite stories with friends and family  ✨Follow us on Instagram - @booknook.ke | @playacademy.africa for updates on upcoming events

Tall with long necks, prickly tongues and fascinating patterns - these are some of the features that make giraffes loveable. Nuru, a curious little boy, invites you to join him with his family, as they go on a trip to see giraffes. ✨Credits✨ Written by: Melissa Wakhu Voiced By: Melissa Wakhu Illustrations: Joy Kioko  Episode Production: Verge Digital  Sound Design: Marcus Garvey Find more of Melissa’s books including her brand new book on Hustle Sasa Submit A Story We'd love to hear your little one's story or feedback. Feel free to leave us a voice note on our Spotify or DM us on Instagram and we may work to bring their story to life and publish it as a bonus episode.  Have you enjoyed this story? Please help us keep it going and bring more magic your way. Here’s how  ✨Follow us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss an episode ✨ Support the author by buying the book  ✨Share your favourite stories with friends and family  ✨Follow us on Instagram - @booknook.ke | @playacademy.africa for updates on upcoming events

Going to the doctor can be scary! Can Bora overcome his fears, with a little help from Baba and Jojo? ✨Credits✨ Written By: Edna Gicovi Illustrated by: Ellen Heydenrych Voiced by: Edna Gicovi Episode Production: Verge Digital ⁠ Sound Design: Marcus Garvey CC by 4.0  Love the story? Read this ebook and many others on bookdash.org and the best part, if you’re in Kenya, you can get a physical copy from @storytime.ke at just 350 bob!  Something that the kids can carry with them all day and read along the audio.  Submit A Story We'd love to hear your little one's story or feedback. Feel free to leave us a voice note on our Spotify or DM us on Instagram and we may work to bring their story to life and publish it as a bonus episode. Enjoyed this story? Help us keep it going and bring more magic your way. Here’s how  ✨Follow us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss an episode  ✨Share your favourite stories with friends and family  ✨Follow us on Instagram - @booknook.ke | @playacademy.africa for updates on upcoming events

Hippo has a big personality and loves to dance every chance she gets but it seems her dancing disrupts all other animals trying to concentrate on doing very important things. Won’t anyone dance with her? ✨Credits✨ Written By: Sam Beckbessinger Illustrated by: Megan Andrews Voiced by: Edna Gicovi Episode Production: Verge Digital ⁠ Sound Design: Marcus Garvey CC by 4.0  Love the story? Read this ebook and many others on bookdash.org and the best part, if you’re in Kenya, you can get a physical copy from @storytime.ke at just 350 bob!  Something that the kids can carry with them all day and read along the audio.  Submit A Story We'd love to hear your little one's story or feedback. Feel free to leave us a voice note on our Spotify or DM us on Instagram and we may work to bring their story to life and publish it as a bonus episode. Enjoyed this story? Help us keep it going and bring more magic your way. Here’s how  ✨Follow us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss an episode  ✨Share your favourite stories with friends and family  ✨Follow us on Instagram - @booknook.ke | @playacademy.africa for updates on upcoming events

✨About the story ✨ Who will win the Great Cake Contest? A sweet story about a little boy who wants to make the best cake. ✨Credits✨ Written by: Lebohang Masango Voiced By: Ndunge Illustrations: Nompumelelo Mdluli Episode Production:  Verge Digital ⁠ Sound Design: Marcus Garvey CC by 4.0  Read this ebook and many others on bookdash.org  Book dash believes that “Every child should own a hundred books by the age of five” and create beautiful books that are contextually-relevant, open-licensed and cheap enough to get into the hands and homes of all children. Submit A Story We'd love to hear your little one's story or feedback. Feel free to leave us a voice note on our Spotify or DM us on Instagram and we may work to bring their story to life and publish it as a bonus episode. Enjoyed this story? Help us keep it going and bring more magic your way. Here’s how  ✨Follow us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss an episode  ✨Share your favourite stories with friends and family  ✨Follow us on Instagram - @booknook.ke | @playacademy.africa for updates on upcoming events

Another Melissa Wakhu classic is up on the podcast! From the writer behind one of our most popular episodes, Pipo and the Poop Pile, comes this sweet story inspired by her love and passion for nurturing a new generation of children who are secure in their unique identities. Fun fact about this wonderful story, she not only wrote it but illustrated it too. We love it and can’t wait for you and your little ones to hear it. ✨About the story ✨ Come along with Tia, a tiny black seed, as she explores the wondrous world around her. Tia dreams of being tall, big and beautiful. But her adventures lead her to an even greater discovery about her true purpose!  ✨Credits✨ Written by: Melissa Wakhu Voiced By: Melissa Wakhu Illustrations: Melissa Wakhu  Episode Production: Verge Digital  Sound Design: Marcus Garvey Find more of Melissa’s books including her brand new book on here ⁠ Submit A Story We'd love to hear your little one's story or feedback. Feel free to leave us a voice note on our Spotify or DM us on Instagram and we may work to bring their story to life and publish it as a bonus episode.  Enjoyed this story? Help us keep it going and bring more magic your way. Here’s how  ✨Follow us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss an episode ✨ Support the author by buying the book  ✨Share your favourite stories with friends and family  ✨Follow us on Instagram - @booknook.ke | @playacademy.africa for updates on upcoming events

It's the rainy season in Doll Village and the dolls are not thrilled. However, they soon discover how amazing rain is. ✨Credits✨ Story courtesy of: Umba Creations Voiced by: Soreti Kadir Episode Production: Verge Digital ⁠ Sound Design: Marcus Garvey CC by 4.0  Read this story and many others on  Umba Creations About Umba Creations Umba Creations is a Kenya-based company founded by Wangari Kamau, a mother, creative and entrepreneur dedicated to creating products that help families instil positive values in their children. Each product is lovingly made to reflect the beauty of diversity, teach values and encourage children to love and respect themselves and their communities. Whether it’s an adorable and totally original Crochet Doll, a pack of Rafiki Values Tribe Playing Cards, or African stories, Umba Creations has something amazing for everyone locally made right here in Kenya. Submit A Story We'd love to hear your little one's story or feedback. Feel free to leave us a voice note on our Spotify or DM us on Instagram and we may work to bring their story to life and publish it as a bonus episode. Enjoyed this story? Help us keep it going and bring more magic your way. Here’s how  ✨Follow us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss an episode  ✨Share your favourite stories with friends and family  ✨Follow us on Instagram - @booknook.ke | @playacademy.africa for updates on upcoming events

I once had a dream, so small and light, I kept it in a box. I kept it hidden, safe and sound, in my drawer of socks.This is a story about a child’s dream and how they nurture it to bloom✨Credits✨Written by: Fred StrydomVoiced By: Cedric NzomoIllustrations: Megan LötterEpisode Production: Verge Digital ⁠Sound Design: Marcus GarveyCC by 4.0 Read this ebook and many others on bookdash.org Book dash believes that “Every child should own a hundred books by the age of five” and create beautiful books that are contextually-relevant, open-licensed and cheap enough to get into the hands and homes of all children.Submit A StoryWe'd love to hear your little one's story or feedback. Feel free to leave us a voice note on our Spotify or DM us on Instagram and we may work to bring their story to life and publish it as a bonus episode.Enjoyed this story?Help us keep it going and bring more magic your way. Here’s how ✨Follow us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss an episode ✨Share your favourite stories with friends and family ✨Follow us on Instagram - @booknook.ke | @playacademy.africa for updates on upcoming events

Ann-Nem-Oh-Nee is stuck on her rock all alone. She’s looking for adventure and wants to see the world! But how?✨Credits✨Written by: Matthew GrifithsVoiced By: Fiona Nyong’o Illustrations: Jessica Bosworth SmithEpisode Production: Verge Digital ⁠Sound Design: Marcus GarveyCC by 4.0 Read this ebook and many others on bookdash.org Book dash believes that “Every child should own a hundred books by the age of five” and create beautiful books that are contextually-relevant, open-licensed and cheap enough to get into the hands and homes of all children.Submit A StoryWe'd love to hear your little one's story or feedback. Feel free to leave us a voice note on our Spotify or DM us on Instagram and we may work to bring their story to life and publish it as a bonus episode.Enjoyed this story?Help us keep it going and bring more magic your way. Here’s how ✨Follow us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss an episode ✨Share your favourite stories with friends and family ✨Follow us on Instagram - @booknook.ke | @playacademy.africa for updates on upcoming events

The talented Polycarp, who you may know as a composer, guitarist, producer and member of one of Africa's biggest bands, is this week’s guest reader with this sweet bedtime story little ones are bound to enjoy. This ode to fatherhood and curiosity is one of our favourite books. Just like the star of the story, Ototo, children are full of wonder, dreams and vivid imagination. We hope this story sparks conversations about your children’s dreams and ambitions. What makes them giggle? Would they want to go to space? What do they see when they close their eyes? What’s the best part of their day? What adventures did they get up to? The possibilities are endless!✨Credits✨Written by: Melissa Wakhu and Polycarp Otieno Voiced By: Polycarp Otieno aka Fancy FingersIllustrations: Mathew OmoloEpisode Production: Verge Digital Sound Design: Marcus GarveyFind more of Polycarp’s and Melissa’s books here in Kenya or Amazon for the rest of the world.Stream FancyFinger’s Music on all platforms including the album Father Studies, an ode to black fatherhood.Submit A StoryWe'd love to hear your little one's story or feedback. Feel free to leave us a voice note on our Spotify or DM us on Instagram and we may work to bring their story to life and publish it as a bonus episode.Enjoyed this story? Or the podcast in general? Don’t forget to share it. —- ✨Follow us on Instagram - @booknook.ke | @playacademy.africa for updates on upcoming events

Spotty the Hyena has lost his laugh. How did this happen? Where could it be? And can the other animals help him find it?✨Credits✨Written by: Michelle PreenVoiced By: James BukusiIllustrations: Karen LiljeEpisode Production: Verge Digital Sound Design: Marcus GarveyCC by 4.0Love the story? Read this ebook and many others on bookdash.org Submit A StoryWe'd love to hear your little one's story or feedback. Feel free to leave us a voice note on our Spotify or DM us on Instagram and we may work to bring their story to life and publish it as a bonus episode.Enjoyed this story? Or the podcast in general? Don’t forget to follow our podcat page on Spotify/Apple podcasts and share it so others can have a listen too!—- ✨Follow us on Instagram - @booknook.ke | @playacademy.africa for updates on upcoming events

Soreti Kadir is phenomenal and breathes life into this whimsical and heartwarming story that celebrates the beauty of natural hairAbout The Story A rhyming story about my special hair. How special it can be. So many types of special hair. Just look around, you’ll see.✨Credits✨Written by: Candice Dingwall Voiced By: Soreti Kadir Illustrations: Jess Jardim-Wedepohl Episode Production: Verge Digital Sound Design: Marcus GarveyCC 4.0Love the story? Read this ebook and many others on bookdash.org and the best part, if you’re in Kenya, you can get a physical copy from @storytime.ke on instagram at just 350 bob! Something that the kids can carry with them all day and read along the audio. 10/10 would recommend.

Nomvundla and Soko are off to the Chilli-Eating Contest. Animals come from far and wide to try to win the amazing prize. Who will win and get to take a friend to the Hamba-Hamba Funfair?✨Credits✨Written by: Fortune Tazvivinga Voiced By: Edna GicoviIllustrations: Joy KiokoEpisode Production: Verge Digital Sound Design: Marcus GarveyCC BY 4.0Love the story? Read this ebook and many others on bookdash.org and the best part, if you’re in Kenya, you can get a physical copy from @storytime.ke at just Ksh 350..Submit A StoryWe'd love to hear your little one's story or feedback. Feel free to leave us a voice note on our Spotify or DM us on Instagram and we may work to bring their story to life and publish it as a bonus episode.Enjoyed this story?Help us keep it going and bring more magic your way. Here’s how ✨Follow us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss an episode✨ Support the author by buying the book ✨Share your favourite stories with friends and family ✨Follow us on Instagram - @booknook.ke | @playacademy.africa for updates on upcoming events

Pipo is a dung beetle, a fancy word for a poop bug. His life started in poop, he lives in poop and his entire life is all about piles of stinky poop. Discover what happens when he gets tired of this smelly life and is searching for his meaning and poopurse. ✨Credits✨Written by: Melissa WakhuVoiced By: Melissa WakhuIllustrations: Joy KiokoEpisode Production: Verge Digital Sound Design: Marcus GarveyFind Pipo and The Poop Pile (This book includes activity sheets and colouring pages) and more of Melissa’s books:KenyaHustle SasaText Book Centre Rest of The WorldAmazonSubmit A StoryWe'd love to hear your little one's story or feedback. Feel free to leave us a voice note on our Spotify or DM us on Instagram and we may work to bring their story to life and publish it as a bonus episode.Enjoyed this story?Help us keep it going and bring more magic your way. Here’s how ✨Follow us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss an episode ✨Share your favourite stories with friends and family ✨Sponsor an episode, or join our book subscription service (Kenya) to receive 2 books every month, or donate. Comment JOIN and I’ll send you a link to register!  ✨Follow us on Instagram - @booknook.ke | @playacademy.africa for updates on upcoming events

This week’s episode is a Bookdash book “Yapo Saves The Day!” Yapo loves to play soccer! But he does not like to pass the ball to his teammates. How will Yapo discover that winning is not only about scoring?✨Credits✨Written by: Rujeko MoyoVoiced By: Fiona Nyong’o Illustrations: Liam LonglandEditor: Nabeela KallaEpisode Production: Verge Digital Sound Design: Marcus Garvey Creative Commons CC by 4.0 license Read this ebook and many others on bookdash.org Bookdash believes that “Every child should own a hundred books by the age of five” and create beautiful books that are contextually-relevant, open-licensed and cheap enough to get into the hands and homes of all children.Submit A StoryWe'd love to hear your little one's story or feedback. Feel free to leave us a voice note on here or DM us on Instagram and we may work to bring their story to life and publish it as a bonus episode.Enjoyed this story?Help us keep it going and bring more magic your way. Here’s how ✨Follow us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss an episode ✨Share your favourite stories with friends and family ✨Sponsor an episode, or join our book subscription service (Kenya) to receive 2 books every month, or donate. Comment JOIN and I’ll send you a link to register!  ✨Follow us on Instagram - @booknook.ke | @playacademy.africa for updates on upcoming events

Follow 5-year-old Adam's whimsical adventure as he creates hilarious inventions that hardly ever go as planned.This story is a reminder of the wonder and joy that science and creativity can bring to our lives. It encourages curiosity and experimentation, showing that even when things don't go as planned, there's always an opportunity for discovery and growth. CreditsWritten and Voiced by: Zain Nasser Illustrations: Mary MogoiEpisode Production: Verge Digital Sound Design: Marcus GarveySubmit A StoryWe'd love to hear your little one's story or feedback. Feel free to leave us a voice note here or DM us on Instagram and we may work to bring their story to life and publish it as a bonus episode.Enjoyed this story?Help us keep it going and bring more magic your way. Here's HowSubscribe so you never miss an episodeShare your favourite stories with friends and familySponsor an episode, join our book subscription service (Kenya) to receive 2 books every month, or donate Follow us on Instagram - @booknook.ke | @playacademy.africa for updates on upcoming events