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10 BIPOC Children's Books About Cooking

7/7/2026

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The month of July is known as many different things: National Ice Cream Month, National Grilling Month, National Picnic Month, and many more. What all these different things have in common are good food and spending time with those you love, like your family. 

Food has always been one of the most important parts of cultural heritage. Each culture has its own unique foods that have been passed down through the ages, but every culture has one thing that’s similar. That’s the importance of food in community, whether through cooking together, eating together as a way to hang out, or special food for celebration of special events.
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Now, what better way to celebrate this month than to read these 10 books about cooking with family?
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1. Soul Food Sunday - Written by Winsome Bingham, illustrated by C.G Esperanza

A young boy is finally old enough to help cook the dishes at a family gathering. Assisting with tasks ranging from cleaning greens to grating cheese, he finishes the day by making his own contribution to this Sunday get-together. This book celebrates the importance of family and tradition, and the brightly illustrated pages are sure to invite you into the story right with them.
Listen to a live read-aloud – click here

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2. Bee-bim Bop! - Written by Linda Sue Park, illustrated by Ho Baek Lee

This rhyming board book tells the story of a young girl and her mom making a traditional Korean dish called bibimbap. The two work together to make a wonderful dinner, emphasizing both their culture and the special moments that come from a family spending time together.
Listen to a live read-aloud – click here

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3. Hot, Hot Roti for Dada-ji - Written by Farhana Zia, illustrated by Ken Min

Aneel’s grandparents have come to stay with his family all the way from India, bringing with them adventurous tales of his grandfather, Dada-Ji, when he was a young boy like Aneel. In these wild stories, Dada-Ji gets his power from hot roti, a type of fluffy bread served with a spicy sauce on the side. Aneel wants to see if Dada-Ji still has these powers, and sets out to make some in this lively story of family fun.
Listen to a live read-aloud – click here
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4. Ruby’s Reunion Day Dinner - Written by Angela Dalton, illustrated by Jestenia Southerland
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Ruby’s extended family gathers for a reunion once a year, and each member of the family has a signature dish that they contribute to the meal. Now that she’s old enough, Ruby wants to make her own signature dish and looks for inspiration in the world around her.
Listen to a live read-aloud – click here
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5. Salma the Syrian Chef - Written by Danny Ramadan, illustrated by Anna Bron
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Salma is a young Syrian girl who has just fled her country to seek refuge in Canada. She notices her mom has been down since leaving their home, and decides to cheer her up by making foul shamy, a traditional Syrian dish.
​Listen to a live read-aloud – click here
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6. Cora Cooks Pancit - Written by Dorina K. Lazo Gilmore, illustrated by Kristi Valiant

This story follows Cora, a young Filipino girl, who is finally old enough to help with the “grown up jobs” in the kitchen instead of the little kid tasks. The book is a celebration of Filipino heritage and foods, and shows the bond between mother and daughter even as you grow older.
​Listen to a live read-aloud – click here

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7. Full, Full, Full of Love - Written by Trish Cooke, Illustrated by Paul Howard
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Sunday dinner at Grannie’s house is an experience full of love and tasty food for little Jay Jay. The story follows the special bond Jay Jay has with his Grannie and invites us into a home full, full of hugs, kisses, and a family that has so much care and affection for each other.
Listen to a live read-aloud – click here
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8. Abuelita and I Make Flan - Written and illustrated by Adriana Hernádez Bergstrom
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Little Anita loves making flan with her grandma, but accidentally breaks the special flan dish that her abuela brought all the way from Cuba. Anita doesn’t tell her and tries to be the best helper to make up for it, but has to come up with a solution when they need a dish to serve the flan.
Listen to a live read-aloud – click here
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9. Plátanos Are Love - Written by Alyssa Reynoso-Morris, illustrated by Mariyah Rahman
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This bilingual book follows Esme and her Abuela as Esme learns that not only are plantain dishes a delicious food, they are a representation of their ancestors, culture and love. They make these meals together, and find connection with their history and with each other.
Listen to a live read-aloud – click here
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10. Amy Wu and the Perfect Bao - Written by Kat Zhang, illustrated by Charlene Chua
Amy and her family love to make bao together and it’s one of their favorite family activities. However, Amy just can’t seem to make her bao right. This book follows her on her quest for the perfect bao that both tastes and looks beautiful.
Listen to a live read-aloud – click here


We hope that you’re able to spend time cooking with someone you love this month, and happy summer!

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Ashley Allen Named All-Star Hometown Hero by Major League Soccer

7/1/2026

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We have some incredible news to share: our Co-Executive Director, Ashley Allen, has been named a 2026 MLS All-Star Hometown Hero by Major League Soccer and Black Players for Change!

This is a big deal! Four leaders were selected across the entire Carolinas and Ashley is the only honoree from anywhere in western North Carolina. At a moment when soccer's biggest national spotlight is landing in Charlotte for MLS All-Star Week, our community's representative on that stage is a Black woman from Asheville leading a literacy nonprofit rooted in equity and love for kids.
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This recognition comes with a $15,000 grant (matched dollar-for-dollar by the David and Nicole Tepper Foundation) to support our work. Ashley will be celebrated at the Hometown Heroes Showcase on July 27 in Charlotte.
​We are so proud!


Click the button below to learn more about Ashley and the other honorees.
Learn More
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Booked & Busy: 7 Free Summer Reading Programs for Kids

6/11/2026

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One of the best things about summer in Asheville is how many local organizations, libraries, and businesses come together to support young readers. From free books and library challenges to pizza, ice cream, and other fun rewards, there are plenty of opportunities for children to stay engaged with reading while school is out.

​To help families make the most of the season, we've gathered seven free summer reading programs that encourage kids to pick up a book, try something new, and celebrate their progress along the way!

1. Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Journal
🎁 Prize: A free book of your choice
📅 When: July–August 2026
✅ How it works: Download the Summer Reading Journal (available in English and Spanish), have your child read 8 books, and write a short response for each one. Bring the completed journal to a Barnes & Noble store and choose a free book from the summer reading list.

2. Buncombe County Libraries Summer Reading Challenge
🎁 Prize: A free book, bookmark, and kiddie scoop from The Hop
📍 Where: Any Buncombe County Public Library location
📚 For Ages: 0–18
✅ How it works: Pick up an activity sheet at your nearest library. Complete 10 fun reading-related activities and return the sheet to receive a free book, bookmark, and a scoop of ice cream from The Hop. More details here. 

​3. Chuck E. Cheese Page Turning Pro Award
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🎁 Prize: 10 Free Play Points
📅 When: Available through December 31, 2026
✅ How it works: Choose a reading milestone that works for your child-finishing a book, reading every day for a week, improving fluency, or another reading goal. Download and print the Page Turning Pro Award certificate, celebrate their accomplishment, then bring the completed certificate to Chuck E. Cheese to redeem 10 Free Play Points.

4. Pizza Hut "BOOK IT!" Digital Program
🎁 Prize: Monthly reward certificate for a free one-topping Personal Pan Pizza
📚 For Ages: PreK–6th Grade
✅ How it works: Parents and caregivers can sign up online and track reading through the BOOK IT! digital dashboard. Children who meet their reading goals can earn a pizza reward each month from June through August.

5. Little Free Libraries Around Asheville
🎁 Prize: Free books anytime
📍 Where: Neighborhoods throughout Asheville
✅ How it works: Visit a Little Free Library near you, take a book, leave a book, or simply browse. It's a fun, free way to discover new stories and grow your home library all year long. Find a little free library near you. 

6. Devil's Foot Summer Reading Program
🎁 Prize: A free 4-pack of Devil's Foot craft soda and a coupon for 50% off a kids Make-Your-Own Pie at Pizza Mind
📍 Where: The Mule at Devil's Foot Beverage and Pizza Mind
✅ How it works: Download and complete the reading log by reading 8 books. Bring the finished log to The Mule at Devil's Foot Beverage in Asheville to claim your rewards and celebrate a summer of reading. 

7. Nothing Bundt Cakes "Books & Bundts"
🎁 Prize: A free mini Bundt cake
📅 When: June 1–August 31, 2026
✅ How it works: Children in PreK through elementary school can track 400 minutes of reading throughout the summer. To receive a reading tracker, email one of the participating Asheville bakeries below. Once completed, turn in the tracker and enjoy a sweet reward.
West Asheville: [email protected]
South Asheville: [email protected]

Free Printable Reading Tracker

Download and print this free reading tracker to encourage your child to read over the summer and work towards earning one of the rewards listed above!
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Download Tracker
Related Articles:
5 Summer-Inspired Literacy Activities for Pre-K Students 
5 Summer-Inspired Reading Activities for Elementary Students 
10 Juneteenth Children's Books 
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20 Spring Break Reading Activities for Kids

3/18/2026

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Spring break offers a chance to slow down and spend time together while discovering new ways to learn through everyday moments. Literacy does not have to feel like a task or something separate from daily life. It can grow through laughter, creativity, and shared experiences that feel meaningful and fun. At Read 2 Succeed, we believe that when children see reading and storytelling as part of their world, it helps build confidence and curiosity in a natural way.

This season, we invite families to bring literacy into their routines in simple and playful ways. Whether you are at home, spending time outside, or traveling, these activities are designed to inspire imagination and connection while making reading and writing a joyful part of your days!

📖 Story Adventures
  • Create a family story circle - Each person adds one sentence to build a silly story.
  • Act out your favorite book scene - turn it into a mini play with costumes and everything!
  • Write a postcard to a favorite book character.

🌳 Outdoor Literacy
  • Nature word hunt - find different items outside and practice spelling them by writing them on a piece of paper, i.e., “leaf,” “bird,” or “flower.”
  • Park reading adventure - Bring a book to the playground and read!
  • Cloud storytelling - Look at clouds and invent a story together based on what you see.

🏠 Everyday Reading
  • Write a grocery list together before going to the store.
  • Read food labels and recipes together while cooking.
  • Follow directions to build something (Lego, craft, etc.).
  • Play a free reading app online - check out a directory here.

🎨 Creative Literacy
  • Draw your favorite book character!
  • Create your own comic strip about something that happens during Spring Break.
  • Design a new book cover for a story you love.

🎧 Listening Literacy
  • Listen to an audiobook or watch a live read-aloud on a car ride. 
  • Family poetry reading night. Take turns reciting poems you love or making up your own!
  • Make up a silly song about your favorite story.

📚 Community Literacy
  • Find a Little Free Library - check out a map here.
  • Swap books with a friend.
  • Start a mini family book club, and read the same book together and talk about it.
To make spring break reading even more fun, we’ve created a free printable Reading Bingo you can use at home. At the bottom of the activity, there’s space to set a special goal or celebration together once your child finishes, giving you a chance to recognize their effort and make reading feel even more rewarding! Free Printable Activity - Download Here!
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Related articles:
Women’s History Month: 10 Children's Books with BIPOC Characters Celebrating Courage, Learning and Leadership 
10 Spring-Inspired Children's Books By Black Authors 
13 Black Children’s Books About Gardening 
10 Books About Moving to a New Place Featuring Black Protagonists
10 STEM-inspire Children's books With Black Protagonists



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Women’s History Month: 10 Children's Books with BIPOC Characters Celebrating Courage, Learning and Leadership

3/4/2026

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This Women’s History Month, R2S celebrates the power of education, courage, creativity, and voice. The books below highlight girls and women who discover their strength, embrace who they are, and use learning as a tool to change their worlds. From scientists and poets to activists and everyday girls finding confidence, these stories remind young readers that their ideas matter and that they can begin shaping history right now. ​
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1. Sulwe written by Lupita Nyong’o, illustrated by Vashti Harrison
Sulwe wishes for her skin to be lighter, believing it would make her more beautiful - until a magical journey helps her see her own radiant worth. Through this powerful story of self-discovery, young readers are reminded that confidence begins within and that every shade shines brightly.

Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.
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2. Just Ask!: Be Different, Be Brave, Be You written by Sonia Sotomayor, illustrated by Rafael López
When children gather to plant a garden, they begin asking one another questions about their differences. Inspired by her own childhood, Justice Sonia Sotomayor shows readers that curiosity builds understanding and that asking questions is an important part of learning and growing.
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Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.
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3. I Am Enough written by Grace Byers
With lyrical affirmations and vibrant illustrations, this uplifting book reminds children that they are worthy exactly as they are. It encourages self-love, kindness, and resilience, empowering young readers to walk confidently in their own unique gifts.

Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.
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4. Ho'onani: Hula Warrior written by Heather Gale, illustrated by Mika Song
Ho'onani Kamai dreams of leading the boys-only hula troupe at her school. With courage and determination, she stays true to herself and honors her culture, showing how bravery and support can help young people embrace who they are.

Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.
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5. What I Must Tell the World: How Lorraine Hansberry Found Her Voice written by Jay Leslie
Lorraine Hansberry loved words from a young age and used them to speak boldly about justice and equality. This inspiring biography follows her journey to becoming a groundbreaking playwright, showing children how education and courage can help them find and use their voice.

Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.
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6. Rainbow Weaver written by Linda Elovitz Marshall and illustrated by Elisa Chavarri
​Ixchel longs to learn the traditional weaving of her community, but when resources are scarce, she finds an inventive new way to create. Through problem-solving and perseverance, she shows readers that creativity and determination can preserve culture and inspire change.

Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.
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7. Malala’s Magic Pencil written by Malala Yousafzai and illustrated by Kerascoët and Sarah J. Coleman
As a child, Malala dreamed of having a magic pencil to fix the world’s problems. She soon discovered that education was the true magic, giving her the power to stand up for girls’ right to learn. Her story inspires young readers to see school as a pathway to courage and change.

Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.
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8. Girls on the Rise written by Amanda Gorman and illustrated by Loveis Wise
​Through powerful poetry, author Amanda Gorman calls girls everywhere to lift their voices and step into their strength. This vibrant celebration of leadership and unity encourages readers to support one another and rise together.

Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.
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9. Lucia the Luchadora written by Cynthia Leonor Garza
Lucia wants to be a superhero, but she’s told that girls can’t be luchadores. With imagination, determination, and a little sparkle, she challenges expectations and discovers that bravery comes from believing in yourself.
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Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.
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10. Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and The Space Race written by Margot Lee Shetterly and Winifred Conkling, illustrated by Laura Freeman
Four brilliant Black women use their math and determination to help send astronauts into space during the Space Race. Their story highlights the power of education, teamwork, and perseverance as they break barriers and make history.
Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

Related Posts:
10 Stories of Change, Courage, and Belonging for Children
6 Children's Books Celebrating Creativity and Imagination
R2S Recommends "Black Boy, Black Boy"
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R2S Recommends: "My Superhero Aurie" by Dr. Khalyn J. Solomon

3/4/2026

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Read 2 Succeed is proud to recommend My Superhero Aurie, a joyful and affirming picture book that highlights the beauty of neurodiversity, friendship, and the many ways children experience the world.

Through the lens of friendship, readers are introduced to a young girl whose unique way of thinking and learning becomes a source of strength and wonder. With the support of a close friend who eagerly shares what makes her so remarkable, the story invites children to notice the talents, perspectives, and abilities that make every person different.

Rather than focusing on limitations, My Superhero Aurie celebrates the idea that every brain works in its own special way. The story encourages children to appreciate differences, practice empathy, and recognize that the qualities that make us stand out are often the same ones that make us extraordinary. Moments at school and on the playground show how kindness and friendship help everyone feel included.

With a message rooted in acceptance and belonging, this book is a wonderful resource for classrooms, families, and young readers who are learning about themselves and the people around them. My Superhero Aurie reminds us that when we celebrate individuality and support one another, we create communities where every child’s strengths can shine. 


​Make reading and listening to My Superhero Aurie even more meaningful with our free Family Reading Guide, featuring engaging activities that help children reflect on friendship, inclusion, and the unique strengths that make everyone special.

Download the free R2S Family Reading Guide for My Superhero Aurie here and explore activities that celebrate kindness, empathy, and the superhero qualities within every child!
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Celebrate Black Children's Book Week 2026 in Asheville

2/5/2026

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Black Children’s Book Week (BCBW) is a vibrant, global celebration that highlights the power and importance of seeing Black children reflected in stories. This year, BCBW takes place Sunday, February 22 through Saturday, February 28, 2026.

Held each year during the final week of February, BCBW brings together parents, educators, librarians, authors, illustrators, publishers, and community champions to celebrate, uplift, and amplify Black children’s books and the creators behind them.
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Join Read 2 Succeed Asheville/Buncombe for an unforgettable night! ✨📚

What: Celebrate Black Children’s Book Week in Asheville!
When: Thursday, February 26, 2026
Time: FREE | 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Where: PVA Community Center (1 Granada St., Asheville, NC 28806)

Grab your neighbors, family, and friends and come celebrate Black Children’s Book Week 2026 with an evening full of stories, play, and connection!

We’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Khalyn J. Solomon, author of the heartwarming children’s book My Superhero Aurie - a beautiful story celebrating friendship, neurodiversity, and the unique strengths that make every child shine. 

What to Expect:
📖 Author Storytime: Enjoy two special read-alouds with Dr. Khalyn J. Solomon and learn about the inspiration behind My Superhero Aurie.
🎨 Creative Fun: Play reading carnival games and literacy activities for kids of all ages (and win prizes!)
🥣 Cereal Bar Treats: Enjoy breakfast for dinner with Asheville's favorite cereal bar experience catered by our friends at Chill Cereal Bar.
🎁 Take-Home Goodies: The first 50 families to arrive will receive a free  signed copy of My Superhero Aurie with additional family reading resources.
🤝Community Vibes: Relax, connect, and celebrate together in a welcoming space for families with a live DJ, face painting, and more!

Bring your family and your love for reading as we cozy up for an evening of celebrating the incredible contributions of Black children's books, authors, and illustrators. We can’t wait to see you there! 
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Meet the Author 💫

Dr. Khalyn J. Solomon, CCC-SLP, is a pediatric speech-language pathologist and bestselling children’s book author. She is the author of My Superhero Aurie, a story that celebrates autism through themes of acceptance, empathy, and self-worth. Dr. Solomon has extensive clinical experience treating children with language delays and disorders, articulation challenges, voice and fluency disorders, autism, and intellectual disabilities. She earned her Doctorate in Speech-Language Pathology from Northwestern University and is the owner of The Speech Exchange and Language Therapy, Inc., where she works to empower children and families through communication and advocacy. Through her book and professional work, Dr. Solomon combines storytelling and expertise to promote inclusion, confidence, and understanding in every child.

​We are so excited to welcome Dr. Solomon as part of our Black Children’s Book Week celebration and can’t wait for our community to experience her story together! 

Special thanks to our event sponsors Self-Help Credit Union and Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park!
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R2S Recommends: "Ice Cream Man: How Augustus Jackson Made a Sweet Treat Better" by Glenda Armand and Kim Freeman

1/21/2026

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Read 2 Succeed is proud to recommend "Ice Cream Man: How Augustus Jackson Made a Sweet Treat Better," a joyful and illuminating picture book by Glenda Armand with illustrations by Kim Freeman.

This beautifully told picture book biography introduces young readers and families to Augustus Jackson, a brilliant Black inventor, chef, and entrepreneur whose creativity helped shape the ice cream we know and love today. Long before ice cream was widely accessible, Jackson was experimenting, improving recipes, and revolutionizing how the dessert was made—making it smoother, richer, and more enjoyable for everyone.

Rather than focusing on struggle alone, Ice Cream Man celebrates Black ingenuity, imagination, and innovation. Through vibrant illustrations and engaging storytelling, children are invited to see how curiosity, problem-solving, and a love of craft can lead to lasting contributions. Jackson’s story reminds us that Black history is filled with inventors and visionaries whose ideas have shaped everyday joys—including something as simple (and delightful!) as ice cream.
Watch and listen to a read aloud of "Ice Cream Man" HERE.
Make reading and listening to Ice Cream Man even more meaningful with our free R2S Family Reading Guide, featuring a fun, interactive alphabet ice cream cone activity kids can enjoy. 
Download a free R2S Family Reading Guide for "Ice Cream Man" here and Download Ice Cream Cone Letters activity here!
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Ice Cream Man Event During Black History Month | The Hop & Read 2 Succeed

Join the Asheville Community for Sweet Story Time 🍦📚
We’re excited to bring this story off the page and into the community!

Sweet Story Time with Read 2 Succeed & Ms. Ann of BooksAlive!
📅 Sunday, February 15, 2026
🕑 2:00–3:00 PM
📍 The Hop Ice Cream
640 Merrimon Ave. #103


Families are invited to gather for a special read-aloud and literacy celebration centered on Ice Cream Man. It’s a perfect opportunity to enjoy our favorite ice cream cafe while learning about a Black innovator whose creativity still ripples through our lives today. All attending families will be entered into a drawing to win a free copy of the featured book!
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Related Posts:
5 Ice Cream Inspired Reading Tips & Ideas
6 Children's Books Celebrating Creativity and Imagination

R2S Recommends "Black Boy, Black Boy"
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Meet Cc: R2S' New Office Manager and Executive Assistant

1/21/2026

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We are thrilled to welcome our newest team member Cc to the R2S family. Learn a little bit more about her in our quick Q&A below:

1. Can you tell us a little about yourself and your role at Read 2 Succeed?
Hey y’all! My name is Cc and I’m the Office Manager and Executive Assistant to the Co-Executive Directors at R2S. In this role, I help support the day-to-day operations of the organization while working closely with leadership to keep things running smoothly. I’m someone who’s always been deeply curious about the stories people carry and investing in community care, so I’m beyond grateful to be part of a team that’s deeply committed to youth literacy and educational equity. 

2. How did reading or literacy shape your childhood or early life?
Reading has always been a doorway for me to expand both my imagination and my understanding of others. Since I was a child, books have given me access to different perspectives and cultures beyond my immediate world. Reading a variety of books while growing up helped me develop a deeper sense of empathy and curiosity, while also offering me comfort and an escape when I needed it most. Even now, reading continues to be a way I reconnect with myself and inspires me to keep growing.

3. What was your favorite book as a child, and do you have a favorite now?
As a child, my favorite book was a mystery story called The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time. I was drawn to its unique voice and writing style, and it helped me understand the world through someone else’s lens, while also deeply relating to the narrator. Today, my favorite book is Of Water and the Spirit. I was introduced to this book by a beloved yoga teacher and the story speaks to me on a more spiritual level. Each time I pick this book up, it feels less like reading and more like I’m being guided through a journey of Malidoma’s ancestral remembering. The author’s intuition and words serve as a light on my path as I continue exploring my own ancestral roots and sense of purpose in this lifetime. 

4. What inspired you to join Read 2 Succeed and work in youth literacy?
My inspiration comes from both my family and my lived experience. I come from a family of educators, many of whom worked in adolescent special education, and they instilled in me the importance of education from a young age. As a first-generation Latine student, I’ve also seen firsthand how access, or lack of access, to educational resources can shape a child’s future. Being part of R2S allows me to support work that directly addresses these gaps while uplifting children in meaningful ways, and being able to support this work while learning from such thoughtful, inspiring folks is a blessing. 

5. What are you most excited to contribute to our community and team?
I’m most excited to bring my childlike curiosity and background in mutual aid into this work. I’ve always loved learning alongside others, and being part of a team that’s actively exploring new ways to support children feels deeply meaningful to me. I’m especially excited to continue growing as an advocate for children’s literacy by supporting them not just in learning to read, but in building confidence and joy through education.

6. How do you spend your time outside of work-hobbies, passions, or small joys?
In my free time, I love exploring my creativity and connection to the natural world. I enjoy volunteering with Aflorar, a local herbalism mutual aid collective, foraging and gardening, creating nature inspired art prints and jewelry, learning to sew, reading about holistic and spiritual practices, and most of all, dancing! I’m happiest when I’m outdoors, working with my hands, or immersed in music, whether that’s at a local show or a festival with friends. I’m also a certified yoga teacher with over 300 hours of training. My training was unique and strongly focused on social justice, decolonization, inclusivity, meditation, sound healing and breathwork, which deeply inform how I move through the world both on and off the mat. 

7. What do you love most about our local community (Asheville or surrounding area)
I was drawn to WNC in college and instantly felt more at home here than I ever have elsewhere. One of my favorite things about Asheville is the close connection to nature and the way most people live in reciprocity with the land. I love hiking with my partner and our dog, discovering new places to eat, and embracing the strong sense of creativity and care that exists here.

8. If you could recommend one book to our staff, students, or community, what would it be and why?
I would honestly recommend Of Water and the Spirit by Malidoma Patrice Somé; although it is a book rooted in spirituality, it does a beautiful job at exploring themes of colonization, magic, belonging, and African culture that I believe every Westerner could learn from. It’s also just one of those stories that captivates you and pulls you into a new world, so both non-fiction and fiction lovers would enjoy it.
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The Top 10 Read 2 Succeed Blog Posts of 2025

12/28/2025

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As 2025 draws to a close, we’re celebrating a year of community, connection, and meaningful literacy work on the Read 2 Succeed blog. From family reading guides to community partnerships and advocacy resources, these posts reflect the heart of our mission: bringing books, joy, and equity to every reader in Asheville and Buncombe County.

Check out our top ten blog posts from the past year:

1. Ten Stories of Change, Courage, and Belonging for Children
This post highlighted books that honor immigrant experiences and build empathy and understanding. It quickly became a favorite among families and educators looking for thoughtful stories that center courage, belonging, and community.

2. Celebrate National Family Literacy Month with Read 2 Succeed
Published in November, this post shared practical tips, free resources, and creative ideas to help families make reading a joyful part of everyday life. It offered simple ways to strengthen family literacy routines at home.

3. 7 Free Summer Reading Programs Kids (and Parents) Will Love 
We rounded up seven exciting summer reading programs (some national, some right here in Asheville) that are easy to join and totally free. Whether your child is into silly stories, graphic novels, or picture books, there’s something on this list to keep them turning pages all summer long.

4. 10 Juneteenth Children’s Books
Released in June, this post curated a thoughtful list of children’s books that help families explore the history and significance of Juneteenth through engaging and age-appropriate storytelling.

5. Ten Children’s Books Supporting the Transition to Kindergarten
Designed to support families with young learners, this post shared book recommendations that help children feel confident, excited, and prepared for the transition into kindergarten.

6. Read 2 Succeed Recommends: Black Girl, Black Girl by Jorge Redmond and Ali Kamanda
This recommendation spotlighted a powerful book by an Asheville native and included a free family reading guide and extension activities to deepen engagement and conversation.

7. Black Children’s Book Week 2025 in Asheville
This post celebrated Black children’s literature and creators by highlighting local events, community read-alouds, and opportunities to uplift Black voices in storytelling.

8. Meet Traqoya G: Read 2 Succeed's New Tutor & Volunteer Coordinator
We shared a quick and fun interview with our new Tutor & Volunteer Coordinator, Traqoya! 

9. Five Ways to Support Read 2 Succeed in 2025
Published early in the year, this post outlined meaningful ways supporters could get involved, from volunteering as a reading tutor to becoming a sustaining donor and learning more about the local literacy landscape.

10. Community Feedback Opportunities: Advocate for Education
This timely call to action encouraged community members to engage in local education planning and advocacy, emphasizing the importance of literacy voices in shaping policies and funding decisions.

Looking Ahead to 2026
Thank you for reading, sharing, and supporting the Read 2 Succeed blog throughout the year. Each post helped build community, spark curiosity, and strengthen our shared commitment to literacy justice. We look forward to continuing this work together in the year ahead, one story at a time.
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    About R2S

    Read to Succeed Asheville/Buncombe (R2S) is a local, independent nonprofit on a mission to help close the
    race-based opportunity gap through community-powered literacy programming that engages children, families, and community partners.

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Read to Succeed is on a mission to help close the race-based opportunity gap through community-powered literacy programming that engages children, families, and community partners.
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Phone: (828) 747-2277
Email: [email protected]
Physical address (Cannot receive mail here): 16A Stewart St.
Asheville, NC 28806
(*Note: Our office is located in the Pisgah View Apartments community)
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PO Box 18652
Asheville, NC 28814
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