Story Time at the Blanche Ely House Museum

Story Time at the Blanche Ely House Museum is held on the first Saturdays of each month.

Join us for an exciting adventure designed for our youngest visitors! It's a place where imagination comes alive, fostering a strong sense of community and creativity. Each session has captivating stories, hands-on thematic art projects, and delicious, healthy snacks to enjoy together. Whether it's sparking a love for reading or celebrating cultural heritage, Story Time is the perfect way for kids to learn, create, and connect in a fun and enriching environment. Don’t miss out on this magical experience!

Story Reading Schedule

• September 6th 2025

Book: Tito Puente Reydel Mambo by Monica Brown, Illustration by Rafael Lopez

It’s time to march to the beat of a different drum!

At our Story Time for your little bookworms, we’re reading Tito Puente: Rey del Mambo, the toe-tapping tale of a boy who turned kitchen clatter into Grammy gold.

With Monica Brown’s rhythmic storytelling and Rafael López’s colorful, musical artwork, this bilingual book brings Tito’s life to full volume. From Spanish Harlem to center stage, Tito’s rhythm never missed a step and neither will your kids!

Join us as we mambo into music, culture, and creativity. Warning: spontaneous dancing may occur. ¡Tum Tica! Let’s drum up some fun together.

• October 4, 2025

Book: A Girl Called Round – by S.R Taylor

An Illustrative Children’s Book addressing the issues of bullying in a creative and compassionate manner, stressing the importance of believing in yourself, no matter what others say about you. This book might also yield important conversations with children about loving themselves from within. Taylor’s message of finding confidence from within is truly life-giving!”

• November 1, 2025

Book: Kamryn’s Glo Kamryn's GLO Rock Adventures: A Journey to Becoming More Understanding, Kind, Accepting, and Loving by Dr.Sharetta Remikie (Author)

Join Kamryn on a heartwarming journey of self-discovery and kindness in A Journey to Becoming More Understanding, Kind, Accepting, and Loving. Through vibrant illustrations and her wise inner voice, Kamryn learns to celebrate differences and embrace empathy. This inspiring story encourages children to grow with compassion and acceptance.

• December 6, 2025

Book: Grandma’s Baby by Latia James

Author LaTia James shares heartfelt affirmations in My Son, My Sun, Grandma’s Baby, and Tee-Tee’s Girl—a beautiful collection celebrating love, family, and legacy. With lyrical prose and vivid illustrations, LaTia invites readers into a space of warmth, reflection, and generational connection. Join her for an inspiring session rooted in purpose, empowerment, and light.

• January 3, 2026

Book: by Bre’ana Standifer

• February 7, 2026

Book: Animal-nificent by Zion Benjamin

Bursting with fun animal facts, colorful illustrations, and uplifting affirmations, Zion’s book encourages kids to discover their own MAGNIFICENT abilities. Enjoy a lively story session, hands-on art inspired by the book, and delicious, healthy snacks, all in a joyful, kid-friendly setting.

It’s the perfect mix of learning, laughter, and creativity for curious little minds!

• March 6, 2026

Book: The Back Story, a Scoliosis Tale Slow Dance A View From Tall to Small by Rishona Cann

Rishona Cann’s books—A View From Tall to Small, Slow Dance, and The Back Story, a Scoliosis Tale—combine vivid illustrations with interactive storytelling. Each page features her original artwork alongside blank spaces that invite readers to write their own thoughts, reflections, or stories. This unique format encourages creativity, empathy, and personal connection, making each book a shared artistic experience. Designed for all ages, her work sparks dialogue and invites readers to see themselves—and others—in a new light.

• April 4, 2026

Book: Believe in Your Dreams – Curtis Smith

Tommy, a very active and smart kid, always has ideas or new ways to do things. He has ideas to make the world better. The only problem is that he is scared and shy, keeping everything in his head. We will see if his parents can help.

• May 2, 2026

Book: So, You Want to be an Athlete? By Brandon Bryant

Link to Previous Craft Activities

For January's Dragon Dance story by Joan Holub we created Paper Plate Dragon Twirler, see the link below to create your own.