This week's free story comes from the Martin & Sylvia's Halloween collection. It's called "Part One: The Thinning of the Veils"   The stories follow the events that unfold over the few days before Halloween as the creative brother and sister prepare for their annual Fairy Ball.   Part One: "The Thinning of the Veils" While Martin and Sylvia wait for the invitations to arrive for their annual Halloween Fairy Ball, Sylvia spies something curious sticking out of the toy shelf in their bedroom. She examines it, and finds that it is an orange piece of paper with a drawing — and on the drawing is a red “X.” Martin declares that it must be a treasure map! And thus brother and sister are launched on a cross-town treasure hunt. Where will it lead them?   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Martin & Sylvia: Dress Up collection. It's called "Part One: Grown-Up Costumes."   One morning, Martin and Sylvia notice that Daddy is taking a particularly long time to get dressed. He's headed to a very big meeting, and he wants to look just right. When they see the ways colorful choices help inspire his attitude, they begin to wonder: what special clothing items might inspire their own outings?   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Martin & Sylvia: Saturdays! collection. It's called "Sudden Story."   During a visit to Grandma's, brother and sister are inspired by some street performers who create a "flash performance" in the park. They too want to tell a story publicly — and suddenly — without any announcement. When Momma suggests they tell a "sudden story" at Mrs. Brown's birthday party, Martin knows just the right story to tell...   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the By Thistle By Thimble collection. It's called "The Orchardman and the Scarecrow." There is a mystery at Kamwell’s apple orchard. How is it that every morning he finds all the ripe apples neatly picked and lying on the soft grass? When he looks around and sees only his scarecrow – he wonders… could it be? If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.  Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the FIFTY: The Stars, the States, and the Stories collection. It's called "South Dakota: Trying to Do Some Good."   Most people have heard of the rough-and-tumble Wild West character Calamity Jane and her gun toting, hard talking, men’s clothes wearing reputation. But like many of the larger-than-life heroes and villains of the American West, the truth is much more subtle and complicated. For when an outbreak of smallpox threatens the gold rush town of Deadwood, South Dakota, it is not the doctor, or the marshal or even the care-taking women of the town that step forward to help, but Calamity Jane who sacrifices her own safety to be of service.   Note: Though this is historical fiction and the characters have been developed to accommodate a story, their attributes and development may be useful as reference points and inspirations.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Martin & Sylvia: How to Be a Superhero collection. It's called "Part One: Are Superheroes Real?."   When Martin and Sylvia learn about superheroes from their neighborhood friends, their curiosity is instantly piqued. What is a superhero? Are superheroes real? And what do Momma and Daddy means when they say there are real superheroes living in their own town?   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the I Am Marvel (How I Became Super) collection. It's called "Part One: An Introduction."   One Saturday morning, a seemingly ordinary husband, father, and elementary school teacher learns that he has the “mark” of a superhero. The moment he decides to rediscover lost superpowers from his youth, his eyes are opened to community of curious local folk who teach him How to Be Super.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the How to Be Super: The Violet Crown (Book One) collection. It's called "Part One: The Welcome Wall."   In which we are introduced to Dante and his single mother and learn that on the morning of his twelfth birthday, he experiences something incredible: he is struck by lightning. He is fine, but it begins a series of events that leads him to the neighborhood welcome wall where he receives a message that changes everything.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Windward Ho! Fore & Aft (Book One) collection. It's called "Episode One: Periwinkle's Parrot." In this first episode of Windward Ho! book one, Periwinkle "Wink" Mackenzie excitedly waits to purchase the next book in her favorite series, The Windward Chronicles, early on the morning of its release. She never suspects that receiving the new book will be only the beginning of an unforeseen adventure. If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.  Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Back to School Stories collection. It's called "Libby & Dish: What Is School Time?."   When Libby starts showing some back-to-school energy, Dish knows just how to stoke the fires! Libby has settled into summer and the easy rhythms of life at her grandparents’ house. Dish, however, feels ready to get back to their predictable city ways. When the clever cat notices telltale signs that Libby is itching to learn some new skills, he invites her to imagine a glorious return to the city and the delights of School Time.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Life as a Martian collection. It's called "Chapter One: The Anomaly in Greenhorn." When the Nebraska family lands in Greenhorn, there’s a lot they don’t know — including the fact that they are Martians sent to Earth as undercover researchers. As they become accustomed to their new town, they study the local culture and even shuttle their youngest son to a podcast camp where he hosts a new show ... and reveals their true identity. If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.  Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from The Willowbee Tree collection. It's called "Introduction Part One: The Lion's Eye." In the backyard of an ordinary house on an ordinary street in an ordinary town, there was once a most extraordinary tree. It was an enormous willow tree and in the middle of its trunk there was a hole. And if you found yourself near that willow tree with a certain wonder stirring in your heart, you might notice a colorful sparkle coming from that hole. And what was that sparkle? An invitation to go somewhere long ago and far far away. This is part one of the Willowbee introduction, called “The Lion’s Eye” Six year old Clancy, notices something strange about the willow tree in the back yard of his new house. Could that be a glow coming from the center of the tree? On closer inspection, he finds a large hole and discovers that it leads him to a wonderful land where animals talk and a little boy can play games with giddy zebras, a joyful baboon and a very persnickety lion. If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.  Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Junkyard Tales: All Together Now Collection. It's called "Let's Get to Work" It is hot in the Junkyard, and the little pond in the back just won't cut it for keeping the Junkyard friends cool. But Ben, Spiro and Sally have an idea: they can make rain! It takes a little ingenuity and a lot of hard work, but in the end, they give a cool gift to all of the Junkyard animals. If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.  Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the By Thistle By Thimble Collection. It's called "Camp Over The Hills And Far Away."   Frances has a particular camp that she wishes to attend — the only problem is that everyone tells her that it doesn't exist. But one morning at the library, she finds a flier on the floor; it is for a camp named "Over the Hills and Far Away". She soon learns that it is not only the perfect camp, but a place that sees her for who she truly is.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's Free story comes from the At Home with Martin & Sylvia Collection. It's called "Really Explorers." One morning Daddy wakes brother and sister early in the morning to hike Mount Mooseberry. He and Momma give them the added challenge of leading the way up the trail to discover magical secrets the mountain may be saving for them. If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.  Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's Free story comes from the Martin & Sylvia Collection. It's called "Spy Team." Listen here!  Martin's friend Julian is coming over and Sylvia knows that he loves to play spies. Sylvia likes spies too but she really wants to be on Martin and Julian's team - not by herself. When Julian suggests they all be together, Martin wonders who they will spy on. Their solution makes for an exciting afternoon. If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like. Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy! 

This week's Free story comes from the Libby & Dish Collection. It's called "Introduction Part Two: Adventure Checklist." Libby and Dish prepare for Libby’s outing to the city with their Adventure Checklist. All four items — including a Mask of On-and-Off Invisibility and a Shelter Cloak of Safekeeping — serve to provide Libby with everything she needs for the trip. Ready for a little detective work, she ventures out and finds the first clue in the elevator, thanks to Mr. Bhachu, her neighbor. If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.  Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Stories for Boredom collection. It's called "A Trip to Boredomville" In this Sparkle Car story, "A Trip to Boredomville," Javon goes to visit his Pappi at a cabin in the woods for a month. He is convinced the month will be the most boring time of his life — that is, until his Grandfather introduces him to Boredomville, and the whole world transforms into one of wonder and exciting possibilities. If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like. Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com  Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected]  Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Junkyard Tales: All Together Now collection. It's called "Now That's a Camp!" Ben wants to create a summer camp for the mice, but he isn't sure how to do it. Sally gives him advice and encourages him to enroll the other Junkyard animals — but Ben knows they are all very busy. When he suggests they all offer to teach something they truly love, the camp quickly comes together. And what a unique camp it is! If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like. Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com  Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected]  Enjoy!

This week's Free story comes from the Sparkle Car Collection. It's called "Our First Trip Together." Listen Now! Included in this episode is an original Martin and Sylvia story called “A Visit from Uncle Phil”: In this story, Daddy’s adventuring friend Phil comes to visit for the weekend. And a visit from “Uncle Phil” means a whole lot of fun. Brother and sister have great ideas about what they’d each like to do, but they can’t seem to agree. When Uncle Phil arrives, he challenges them to find something they can all do together! With a little story magic from Uncle Phil, sibling harmony is found once again. Also included: “The Bremen Town Musicians”, a story collected by the Brother’s Grimm and “East of the Sun and West of the Moon”, a story from Norway. Woven between the stories are some long “staircase” verses that everyone can join in, as well as some fun and original car games. If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.  Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com  Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected]  Enjoy!

This week's Free story comes from the Junkyard Tales: All Together Now Collection. It's called "The Pirate Queen." Listen now!  Georgia Bean, the kindly rat, is looking for something for the mice to do. The other animals suggest putting on a play and all offer to help in the production. They agree on a pirate theme, but everyone is surprised when one of the mice takes her part very very seriously. Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's Free story comes from the Martin & Sylvia Collection. It's called "Catching Crayfish." Martin and Sylvia gauge the seasons less by the calendar, and more by the natural world. The sure sign that summer has begun is that the crayfish appear in the brook along the back of the yard. The two enjoy a summer day figuring out how to catch these wonderful, watery creatures! Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Martin & Sylvia collection, Martin & Sylvia's Knitting From the Beginning.  It's called "Part One: The Spunderful Shop." Part One: "The Spunderful Shop" "The Spunderful Shop" is the name of shop brother and sister discover during the annual Art Walk. Walking into the Spunderful Shop is like walking into a fairy land of bright sparkling colors and delightful little creatures -- all made of knitted and felted wool. When they find out that Miss Melinda, the proprietor of The Spunderful Shop, teaches classes, Martin and Sylvia are very excited! If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.  Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the By Thistle By Thimble collection. It's called "The Rat Catcher's Son."   The role of rat-catcher may not be respected in the old stone city where Bern is employed, but he is very good at what he does. The son learns from his father that the skills of patience, confidence and perseverance are important not only for rat-catching, but for accomplishing any goal in life.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Martin & Sylvia collection. It's called "Mother's Day."   Momma doesn't know what she wants to do for Mother's Day. So Daddy, Martin and Sylvia come up with all sorts of ideas. Together they create a small book of options. When Momma pages through, she is delighted and amazed to discover what her perfect mother's day could include!   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Martin & Sylvia's Nature School collection. It's called "Kings and Queens of the Forest."   When Martin leaves for Wilderness School, he can't help but feel envious for Sylvia's project with Daddy: preparing for May Day by building a huge bonfire and cooking Beltane Bannock Bread. This has his attention all morning until Eva gives his group an inspiring May Day question: What kind of King or Queen of the Forest do you want to be? His answer helps Martin understand not only the gift of May Day, but of leadership itself.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the At Home with Martin & Sylvia collection. It's called "Trash Fairies"   One dark and stormy night, Martin decides to cut his weekly chores a little short and leave the trash bag by the garage instead of fetching the plastic garbage bin. In the morning, he discovers that something has gotten into the bag and has spread trash all about. "Was it a bear?" wonders Sylvia. "Too big", says Daddy. "A mouse?" wonders Sylvia. "Too small", answers Daddy. "I know", she says, "It was Trash Fairies!"   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Martin & Sylvia: Saturdays collection. It's called "Three Little Fairy Houses"   There is a big storm coming, and Sylvia is worried about the fairy houses by the brook. Since they just read the "Three Little Pigs" story, she wonders what natural materials would be best for certain kinds of fairies. She and Martin get to work creating all about the yard and are delighted to discover which houses endure the "huffing and puffing" of the storm.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Mrs. Castlechanter's Magic Cabinet collection. It's called "Mrs. Castlechanter"   Everyone has heard the curious tales about Mrs. Castlechanter, the beloved art teacher at Hillfort Elementary. How old is she anyway? And what was the story about the drawing that winked at a student? As it turns out, Mrs. Castlechanter’s history proves to hold some interesting stories ... as does her special art cabinet.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Martin & Sylvia: Saturdays collection. It's called "Spring Seeing"   Brother and sister take themselves on a Spring Seeing walk where they hunt for signs of spring. As they wander through the forest, they talk about the fairy life. Sylvia wonders if maybe this time she can see a fairy with her own eyes.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Martin & Sylvia's Whole World Easter collection. It's called "Part One: The Other Side of the World"   Martin and Sylvia begin a penpal relationship with Ruby and Angus who live south of Sydney, Australia. They learn a great deal, especially that the seasons in Australia are the opposite of their own.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Martin & Sylvia collection. It's called "Spring Cleaning."   It's Spring Cleaning Day in Martin and Sylvia's house! But Martin and Sylvia would much rather get in the way than help. A little springtime fun with Sasha and Jonathan turns the tide and provides a little inspiration to join the effort.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Libby & Dish collection. It's called "On Clouds and Hard Places."   Libby immediately falls in love when she meets Juan Paco’s pet cobayo, Vellosa. She is on a cloud. And then, moments later, a neighbor enters and she is suddenly off the cloud and surrounded by hardness. Lucky for her, Juan Paco and his father can understand this - and they welcome her and her mother into their very soft, very welcoming home.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Libby & Dish: The Feel Guide collection. It's called "Part One: Aunt Cecily’s Sister Time."   As Libby’s mom packs to leave, Dish helps Libby sort through all of the emotions she’s feeling: sad to say goodbye to her mom, and a bit worried — but also excited — about her grandmother’s visit. When her beloved aunt arrives, Libby can see she’s not the only one feeling big things! She starts to dream of a “Feel Guide” to help everyone navigate so much sensation.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to www.sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the FIFTY: The Stars, the States, and the Stories collection. It's called "Connecticut: My Daughter Can."   In 1777, two years after Paul Revere made his historic evening ride to Concord, Massachusetts, 16-year-old Sybil Ludington had a similar experience — though hers was twice as long, took all night, and was during a terrible storm. Her ride was to alert patriot farmers to gather at her father’s home where they would set off the following morning to defend Danbury Connecticut from the British army.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.    Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Stories of Resilience collection. It's called "Liza Jane and the Birch Tree."   In the So Many Fairies story, "Liza Jane and the Birch Tree" a young girl is suddenly uprooted, and comes to live in a new town with her kindly second cousin. With the help of a birch tree fairy named Watchful, she develops her own inner strength, so that she might claim happiness in the new situation.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.    Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Sparkle Sleepytime collection. It's called "Halldora the Humpback Whale."   Halldora the whale calf has heard many stories about people and their boats — and she would like to see one for herself. When the opportunity finally arrives, she is excited and a little nervous. She and her mother jump at the perfect time to see a boat filled with happy people, and there is one person in particular that catches Halldora's attention: a little girl with a special sparkle in her eye.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.    Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the I Am Marvel (How I Became Super) collection. It's called "Part One: An Introduction"   One Saturday morning, a seemingly ordinary husband, father, and elementary school teacher learns that he has the “mark” of a superhero. The moment he decides to rediscover lost superpowers from his youth, his eyes are opened to community of curious local folk who teach him How to Be Super.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.    Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the At Home with Martin & Sylvia collection. It's called "Living Room Camping."   Brother and sister look out at the gray late autumn landscape and long for summer again. They miss the easy play, the summer adventures — and most of all, they miss camping. "You can still go camping!" says Daddy, "You can go living room camping. It's the same as outdoor camping, but just ... inside." Martin and Sylvia are inspired and immediately set to preparing.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.    Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Sparkle Sleepytime collection. It's called "Rye the Meerkat."   Rye loves his bedtime routine. He and his parents do the same thing every night and even have a song to help them remember every step. When the night comes when both his parents are on patrol, Rye must teach his aunt how it all works — and he is surprised by what happens...   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.    Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Martin & Sylvia's Nature School collection. It's called "Winter Wonder"   At Goose-eye Wilderness Camp, Martin notices that his friend Sam is feeling tired of winter and missing her home in Arizona. He hesitates to tell her that there are still several weeks of winter left, but luckily Helmut, the apprentice from Germany, knows exactly how to show Sam the way to appreciate the gifts of Winter.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.    Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Martin & Sylvia: Day of Rest collection. It's called "A Year to Build a Day — Introduction to a Day of Rest."   Christmas is over and Momma is backed up with work. Daddy is frustrated because their wood pile hasn’t been stacked and he isn’t sure when that is happening. Guests are coming and children are tired and it all seems a bit too much. And then, Momma is given a present that introduces a new idea to the family: A Day of Rest.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.    Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the The Dory Horde: The Gilded Dragon (Book One) collection. It's called "Episode One: The Long Ride North."   Aurora and her five children live a quiet life in the woods, until one day they receive a phone call: their grandfather has died suddenly and the family must take the long journey from Kentucky to his mysterious estate in the Yukon territory. But why? And what will they learn once they arrive?   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds and hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.    Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the How to Be Super: The Violet Crown (Book One) collection. It's called "Part One: The Welcome Wall."   In which we are introduced to Dante and his single mother and learn that on the morning of his twelfth birthday, he experiences something incredible: he is struck by lightning. He is fine, but it begins a series of events that leads him to the neighborhood welcome wall where he receives a message that changes everything.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the At Home with Martin & Sylvia collection. It's called "The Shortest Day."   Where Martin and Sylvia live, the nights are getting longer and the days are getting shorter. When Momma suggests they spend more time outside with the sun, brother and sister decide to invite the daylight into all their play. They go sledding, build fairy houses, do farm chores, and build a bonfire all with an eye on the sun — celebrating its shortest day of the year.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the At Home with Martin & Sylvia collection. It's called "Holiday Delight."   Between all the decorating, baking, crafting and celebrating, this year’s holiday season has been a very busy one for Martin and Sylvia. When they are suddenly faced with a day with no plans, however, brother and sister don’t know what to do with themselves. “Look for the delight,” suggests Momma, and as soon as they do, the magic begins.     If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Libby & Dish's Good-Deed-A-Day Club collection. It's called "The First Good Deed (Libby's Mother)."   In this first episode of Libby & Dish's month-long adventure, Libby finds herself at odds with her mother over a challenging task. Can Dish help them out of their difficulties?   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Junkyard Tales: Audio Advent Calendar collection. It's called "JYT December 1."   One chilly evening in late autumn, Sergeant the steadfast Junkyard Watchdog announces some challenging news: the Junkyard isn’t able to pay its bills for the year, and the Junkyard Warden may have to leave. The other animals are upset — but when they realize that the Warden would take both Sergeant and Winnie with him, they are doubly distressed. What will they do? Luckily a familiar little mouse arrives with some support.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Martin & Sylvia's Giving Thanks collection. It's called "Part One: Two Magic Words."   This story is a part of Martin & Sylvia's Giving Thanks Story Collection — three stories that explore the magical power of two important words: "thank you". The children learn that feeling a 'thank you' with their whole body can change how they feel — and change how other people feel! This lesson sets the whole family into a Thanksgiving holiday filled with appreciation, joy and family adventure. Part One: "Two Magic Words" is about how brother and sister turn a long drive to Grandma's into a magical quest to bring gratitude into every part of the trip.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Martin & Sylvia: Learning Days collection. It's called "A Tasty Good Morning."   Martin and Sylvia love all kinds of delicious foods — and breakfast might just be their favorite family meal. One day, the children are surprised to learn that their friend Laura usually only eats cold cereal for breakfast. Could they tempt her to try something new? Together with Momma and Daddy, they prepare a breakfast feast that is good enough for everyone to eat.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Martin & Sylvia: More Adventures! collection. It's called "A Little Bit of Light."   Every year when the trees have all lost their leaves and the ground starts to frost in the morning, brother and sister start to make their lanterns for their annual lantern festival. This year they can't go their normal route and need to choose another place to walk. When Martin suggests going next door to visit the doctor's house, Sylvia worries that it will be too dark. But the magic of the evening shows her just how much can be seen with the light of a single lantern.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Martin & Sylvia's Family Tree of Stories collection. It's called "Nanni's Story."   Nanni's story is about how she loved to sing to horses when her father, a large animal vet, was treating them. The horses always responded. When her father took her to the Kentucky Derby to treat one of the competing horses, a most incredible opportunity presented itself. This is a story about what magic can happen when you authentically wish to help others.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the So Many Fairies Halloween Story collection. It's called "Halloween Story: Part One."   We meet Henry - a creative, delightful boy who would very much like to be an elf. When the Halloween season begins, he throws himself into preparation, for this year he will get to try on his elf-ness! He also meets Brie, a classmate who invites him to trick-or-treat in her neighborhood. On Halloween eve they immediately see that this is no ordinary Halloween: Henry-the-Elf and Brie-the-Cat discover a "Story House," and the adventure begins.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Martin & Sylvia's Halloween collection. It's called "Part One: The Thinning of the Veils."   The stories follow the events that unfold over the few days before Halloween as the creative brother and sister prepare for their annual Fairy Ball. Part One: "The Thinning of the Veils" While Martin and Sylvia wait for the invitations to arrive for their annual Halloween Fairy Ball, Sylvia spies something curious sticking out of the toy shelf in their bedroom. She examines it, and finds that it is an orange piece of paper with a drawing — and on the drawing is a red “X.” Martin declares that it must be a treasure map! And thus brother and sister are launched on a cross-town treasure hunt. Where will it lead them?     If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Martin & Sylvia: Saturdays! collection. It's called "True Colors."   One autumn morning, Momma tells brother and sister that the oranges, reds and yellows of autumn leaves are actually their true colors — that the green actually masks those colors until the fall. This reminds Sylvia of something she has been masking — and gives her the courage to tell the truth.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Martin & Sylvia: Saturdays! collection. It's called "Silly Speak Songs."   Brother and sister attend a song writing workshop with a visiting children's musician and even though Martin is at first resistant, they both learn the silly way she writes songs.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

We're thrilled to present our carefully curated September podcast selections that revolve around embracing authenticity, cultivating a culture of acceptance, valuing differences, and empowering children to dream big! This month we will feature our free stories on our website here at https://www.sparklestories.com/september-stories/ The stories are there waiting for you!

This week's free story comes from the At Home with Martin & Sylvia collection. It's called "Go-to-Sleep Fairy."   This story is a part of the "Handy Toolbelt of Stories" — a collection of stories designed to give your family support during overwhelming life events. Included are stories about trauma, sickness, potential harm and death. They are stories to have in your back pocket if your family experiences a sudden trauma or difficult life event. This story comes from the Martin & Sylvia Series. Martin is grumpy — he simply hasn’t been getting enough sleep. He explains to Momma that he is just not sleepy at night. Everyone has some advice, from warm milk to special stories, but it is his sister who saves the day (or night!) with her delightful introduction to the go-to-sleep fairy.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Windward Ho! Fore & Aft (Book One) collection. It's called "Episode One: Periwinkle's Parrot."   In this first episode of Windward Ho! book one, Periwinkle "Wink" Mackenzie excitedly waits to purchase the next book in her favorite series, The Windward Chronicles, early on the morning of its release. She never suspects that receiving the new book will be only the beginning of an unforeseen adventure.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Back to School Stories collection. It's called "Libby & Dish: What Is School Time?"   When Libby starts showing some back-to-school energy, Dish knows just how to stoke the fires! Libby has settled into summer and the easy rhythms of life at her grandparents’ house. Dish, however, feels ready to get back to their predictable city ways. When the clever cat notices telltale signs that Libby is itching to learn some new skills, he invites her to imagine a glorious return to the city and the delights of School Time.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Sparkle Sleepytime collection. It's called "Teeny the Toadlet."   Teeny is a little toadlet who is about to go to school for the very first time. When she realizes that going to Toad School includes leaving some of her friends from the pond and making new friends on land, she grows nervous. Her mother reassures her that toads are lucky because they can make new friends at Toad School while keeping their old friends from the pond.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Junkyard Tales collection. It's called "Beaver Days."   The Junkyard animals don’t know what to do. It is the All Clear Common, when no one works and the animals do things that are fun and relaxing. But no one has any good ideas — not until Fredland the Moose arrives with an exciting invitation: come to “Beaver Days” where the forest animals meet at the lake to play games, run races, and eat all sorts of yummy food! The Junkyard Animals have an adventure they could never have imagined on their own.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

his week's free story comes from the Junkyard Tales collection. It's called "Introduction Part One: The Cat's New Home."   This is a story about a cat. The cat's name is Benjamin Thompson and in this story, Ben accidentally discovers his new home - a most unusual place.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Martin & Sylvia's Nature School Introduction collection. It's called "Part One: What to Do on Thursdays."   This collection introduces the Martin & Sylvia: Nature School Series. In the Nature School Introduction, the idea for a "Nature School" is born. It's summer's end, and Momma, Martin, and Sylvia reflect on all the things they loved about the summer season: hikes, walks along the beach, blueberry picking, climbing trees and collecting bird feathers. Then Momma suggests that they keep the summer outdoor fun alive all year long: “Every Thursday, let's have Nature School!” And so Martin joins the Goose-eye Wilderness School, and Sylvia and her friend Sophia create a Nature home-school. From wild craft cooking to outdoor games to building projects to tree identification, Nature School is a year of unfolding learning and fun. In Part One: Momma, brother, and sister decide they want to dedicate one day a week for outside 'nature' school and they set intentions about it. By the next day, Martin is enrolled in the Goose-eye Wilderness school and Momma has formed a homeschool nature day with Sylvia's friend Sophia. "Wow!" they think, "Making intentions really works!"     If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

Our days are filled with busyness and many many demands. Kids lives too are full. How do we cut through all of that to find a little extra joy and peace? Wonder! It's a powerful tool for rekindling an inner sense of awe and appreciation - which leads to so many good feels. In this conversation with Lisabeth Sewell and Dr. Carrie Contey, they explore all the ways to enrich our days with a little wonder.   Visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Libby & Dish: Adventures of the Finder's Club collection. It's called "Part One: A New Kind of Adventure."   Libby, Juan Paco, and Morgan’s weekly adventure hike in the park has reached an impasse. Libby likes the path they always take, but Morgan wants to go somewhere new. What to do? Luckily, Dish has a suggestion that not only bridges the impasse, but opens the door to discovering something magical and completely unexpected!   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the By Thistle By Thimble collection. It's called "Constable Phelps and the Wondersmith."   Everything in the town of Iontas is in perfect order. Constable Phelps keeps it that way. The people work hard and there is never any trouble or complaint. But there also aren't any smiles or laughter. That is, until the Wondersmith arrives and quietly, gently changes everything.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Martin & Sylvia: Saturdays! collection. It's called "The Tiny House."   Martin and Sylvia want to set up the tent, and in addition to sleeping bags, they want chairs, a work and dining table, as well as a reading and craft area. They quickly realize that it will take some careful planning to make it all fit?. By day's end they have a beautiful and functional little house.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Martin & Sylvia: More Adventures! collection. It's called "Paddling to Treasure Island."   When Daddy suggests they paddle to "Luck Island" which had recently been made into a public park, brother and sister are at once excited and filled with questions: "Does anyone live there?" "What is on the island?" "Will there be pirate treasure?" They find out that the island does indeed have treasure, but not at all the kind they were expecting.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the The Willowbee Tree collection. It's called "The Smell of Fire."   Little Ty did not enjoy a recent camping trip with the rest of his family. He complained the whole time about the different sounds, and tastes, and especially the smells. When the willow tree takes him to the mud pools of New Zealand, Ty and a feisty Kea bird learn what amazing things one can see once you accept the intense smell for what it is: the smell of fire.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Martin & Sylvia: Saturdays! collection. It's called "What Sandcastles Like."   When Martin and Sylvia's family visits Momma's friend, Kaylee, on the coast, they discover a tidal river bank with sand perfect for sandcastles. They build what they hope will be a long-lasting sandcastle, but quickly learn what the ocean, the sand, and sandcastles prefer...   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

Carrie Contey has some wise and delightful ideas for capturing the sweetness of summer. Listen into her interview with Lisabeth — it's full of expert tips and intentional strategies that will enrich your family's entire summer. Join us as we delve into the joys of the season and uncover valuable insights to make this summer the sweetest one yet, filled with connection, growth, and cherished memories.       Visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the FIFTY: The Stars, the States, and the Stories collection. It's called "South Dakota: Trying to Do Some Good."   Most people have heard of the rough-and-tumble Wild West character Calamity Jane and her gun toting, hard talking, men’s clothes wearing reputation. But like many of the larger-than-life heroes and villains of the American West, the truth is much more subtle and complicated. For when an outbreak of smallpox threatens the gold rush town of Deadwood, South Dakota, it is not the doctor, or the marshal or even the care-taking women of the town that step forward to help, but Calamity Jane who sacrifices her own safety to be of service.   Note: Though this is historical fiction and the characters have been developed to accommodate a story, their attributes and development may be useful as reference points and inspirations.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Martin & Sylvia: How to Be a Superhero collection. It's called "Part One: Are Superheroes Real?"   When Martin and Sylvia learn about superheroes from their neighborhood friends, their curiosity is instantly piqued. What is a superhero? Are superheroes real? And what do Momma and Daddy means when they say there are real superheroes living in their own town?   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the I Am Marvel (How I Became Super) collection. It's called "Part One: An Introduction."   One Saturday morning, a seemingly ordinary husband, father, and elementary school teacher learns that he has the “mark” of a superhero. The moment he decides to rediscover lost superpowers from his youth, his eyes are opened to community of curious local folk who teach him How to Be Super.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Martin & Sylvia collection. It's called "Mother's Day."   Momma doesn't know what she wants to do for Mother's Day. So Daddy, Martin and Sylvia come up with all sorts of ideas. Together they create a small book of options. When Momma pages through, she is delighted and amazed to discover what her perfect mother's day could include!   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the How to Be Super: The Violet Crown (Book One) collection. It's called "Part One: The Welcome Wall."   In which we are introduced to Dante and his single mother and learn that on the morning of his twelfth birthday, he experiences something incredible: he is struck by lightning. He is fine, but it begins a series of events that leads him to the neighborhood welcome wall where he receives a message that changes everything.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This month we are exploring superpowers. We all have them, and the world needs them. How to do we discover and cultivate our own unique powers?   Lisabeth invited teacher and mentor Carrie Contey, PhD to discuss! Carrie shares her best tips and tools, as well as stories about her experiences with finding and nurturing her own gifts in a power-packed 18 minute conversation.   Dive into more insightful resources like this on the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the The Dory Horde: The City of Eight (Book Three) collection. It's called "Episode 1: The Scattering."   One day at home in Peru, Aurora Dory finds herself reflecting on her five uniquely gifted children, two of whom are pursuing their own adventures in other lands. But when her youngest son wonders aloud about the silence from Egypt-based older brother, the family begins to wonder if something sinister is afoot.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the So Many Fairies collection. It's called "Fairy Fireflies."   A boy moves from a city apartment to live with his mother in a small house in the country. He has lived his whole life in the city, and so he misses his friends, his school and his home. He is nervous about the back yard with its overgrown trees, brambly bushes, and a cow pasture beyond. He prefers to stay inside reading comics until one night, a host of fireflies -- or are they fairies? -- takes him on a magical adventure.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series!   For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the So Many Fairies collection. It's called "The Crystal Gnome."   The crystal gnome is happy in his tiny underground workshop. But he is also curious about the soft muffled sounds he hears from above: car motors, dogs barking, and the most interesting sound of all — children singing. When his curiosity is satisfied through a series of accidents, the delicate gnome is unexpectedly overwhelmed by the bright lights and loud sounds of the world aboveground. With the help of his own crystal and some other experienced gnomes, he learns how to make a home amidst the sights and sounds that intrigue him.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series!   For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the So Many Fairies collection. It's called "Benno and the Water Nymph."   A poor farm family sails across the sea to seek a new life of possibility. When they finally arrive, they see that the land is parched and there is no water in sight. But Benno, the farm boy, smells something familiar — it is the smell of the hillside spring near their old home. What he doesn't know is that the water nymph from that spring has followed them ... and is ready to help.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like. Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the So Many Fairies collection. It's called "The Fairy Feast."   Fairies, much like people, need to get to know each other. They must be able to work together to meet the everyday challenges of the natural world, such as storms, temperature changes, and changes brought by people. And how do they become acquainted? Through feasting! So when there’s a sudden change in the backyard of twin brothers Russell and Randolph, the stonewall gnomes, brook nymphs, and oak tree elves must assemble a “feast” — a special and very potent fairy gathering.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the So Many Fairies collection. It's called "The Dusty Dirty Gnome."   Buddy has a dirty room. His room is so dirty and dusty that he has trouble finding his clothes, his toys, and his games. And a dirty, dusty, cluttered room is the perfect spot for a Dusty Dirty Gnome to take up residence! After Buddy loses his favorite stuffed animal, Moosie, he has a dream about the Dusty Dirty Gnome who gives him a hint about where Moosie might be hiding. He wakes with a burning question, "What would things be like if everything in my room had its own place?"   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the Martin & Sylvia collection. It's called "The Sit Spot."   After a day at Wilderness School, Martin tells his sister and Daddy about finding a "sit spot" or personal spot in the woods. Sylvia is inspired to find one herself, as is Daddy — but Momma is feeling she needs to focus on getting the house ready for guests. But in the final moments before the guests arrive, she decides to find a "sit spot" and has the most magical moment of all.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.     Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the The Willowbee Tree collection. It's called "Feeding the Storm."   Clancy is mad. His day has not gone well at all and instead of saying anything to anyone, he has only gotten more and more upset. But then the willow tree takes him to the coast of Newfoundland, Canada where a wolf shows him how the storm inside needs to be expressed and fed in order to pass.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.       Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!

This week's free story comes from the By Thistle By Thimble collection. It's called "The Goldsmith Who Knew How to Fish."   Wren has a happy life in the city with the exception that he doesn't have time for his favorite activity. When his work as a goldsmith starts to suffer, his wife and his boss encourage him to take a week off and go fishing. He agrees and brings his little daughter to a nearby fishing river — and remembers why fishing is so important to him and his work as a jewelry maker.   If you enjoyed that story, there are hundreds more where that came from. Try a Sparkle subscription now - for free. Go to sparklestories.com and click the button at the top that says “Start Free Trial,” then you can listen to our giant library as much as you like, anytime you like.   Each week on the Sparkle Stories Podcast, we share a free story from one of our original story series! For many many many more stories like this one, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions?  Ideas?  Requests? Email us!  [email protected] Enjoy!