Mama’s Nightingale: A Story of Immigration and Separation
​Written by Edwidge Danticat, illustrated by Leslie Staub
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Saya’s mother has been taken to an immigration detention center, leaving Saya longing for her comforting presence. Through recorded stories and heartfelt messages, Saya finds strength and connection even in separation. 
Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

Dreamers
Written and illustrated by Yuyi Morales
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This beautifully illustrated story follows a mother and son who come to the United States and discover the wonders of the public library. Books become their language, their bridge, and their way of finding belonging in a new place. 
Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

If You See a Bluebird
​Written by Bahram Rahman, illustrated by Gabrielle Grimard
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When a young girl travels to visit her grandparents far away, she experiences the joy of reconnecting with family and the ache of missing home. Through gentle moments and meaningful cultural details, she learns what it means to love two places at once. 
Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

Maribel’s Year
​Written by Michelle Sterling, illustrated by Sarah Gonzales
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Maribel has just moved from the Philippines, and each month brings new challenges and discoveries as she adjusts to life in the United States. With patience and bravery, she grows more confident in her surroundings and begins to find her place. 
Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

The Arabic Quilt: An Immigrant Story
​Written by Aya Khalil, illustrated by Anait Semirdzhyan
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Kanzi feels embarrassed about her Arabic name on her first day at a new school. But when her teacher introduces a quilt project that celebrates the languages in the classroom, Kanzi’s identity becomes a source of pride and connection. 
Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

Areli Is a Dreamer: A True Story
​Written by Areli Morales, illustrated by Luisa Uribe
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In this true story, Areli shares her experience of moving from Mexico to the United States as a young child. She navigates new language, new expectations, and new surroundings while holding onto her dreams. Her journey honors the bravery of many children who adapt, grow, and build a place for themselves in a new country.
Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

Anita and the Dragons
​Written by Hannah Carmona, illustrated by Anna Cunha
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Anita imagines the airplane taking her from the Dominican Republic to her new home as a mighty dragon she must bravely face. As she says goodbye to the familiar, she gathers courage for the unknown ahead. 
​Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

Fatima’s Great Outdoors
Written by Ambreen Tariq, illustrated by Stevie Lewis

Fatima and her family go on their first camping trip in the United States, discovering joy, peace, and adventure in the woods. Away from the pressures of school and fitting in, Fatima is able to celebrate her family’s traditions in the comfort of nature. 
​Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

Waiting to Welcome
​Written by Samantha Cleaver and Reuben Nantogmah,
​illustrated by Carmen Mok
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A neighborhood prepares to welcome a newcomer family, and the children lead with kindness and excitement. Through thoughtful gestures and open hearts, they show how communities can make newcomers feel seen and supported. 
​Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

Like a Dandelion
​Written and illustrated by Huy Voun Lee
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A child, compared to a dandelion seed, travels to a new place and begins the journey of growing roots and blooming. Through poetic language and bright illustrations, this story captures the resilience and beauty of starting fresh. 
​Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

✨ Join Us for the 4th Annual Community Holiday Extravaganza! ✨

The holiday season is here, and Read 2 Succeed is delighted to invite you to our 4th Annual Community Holiday Extravaganza! This joyful celebration brings families and friends together for an afternoon of literacy, creativity, music, and community spirit.

📅 Event Details: 
What: 4th Annual Community Holiday Extravaganza
When: Sunday, December 14, 2025 | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Where: Arthur R. Edington Center (133 Livingston Street, Asheville, NC)
Admission: FREE (RSVP on Eventbrite)

📚 Featured Guests & Highlights
This year, we’re honored to welcome celebrated children’s book author J.P. Miller, known for "Sister Rosetta Tharpe: The Godmother of Rock & Roll.” J.P. Miller is an Asheville native whose goal as a writer is to spark interest and build awareness in children of the known and unsung heroes of the African Diaspora. Come on out and join her for a live reading and book signing, as she brings the story of Sister Rosetta Tharpe to life with her signature warmth and passion.
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Then get ready to be dazzled by the incomparable Kelle Jolly (“Lady Fay Ukulele”), who is a vital member of Tennessee’s arts community. She’ll captivate audiences with a live reading from her enchanting children’s book "Lady Fay Ukulele" a joyful story that celebrates music, creativity, and self-expression. 
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🎈 Family Fun & Festivities​
Bring the whole family for an afternoon packed with activities and holiday cheer, including:

• 🎨 Face Painting
• 🍪 Cookie Decorating
• 🎠 Carnival Games & Prizes
• 🎁 BIPOC Holiday Market featuring local artists and small businesses​​ ​

🍴Delicious Food & Entertainment
Pick up a free meal from Blessed Soul Food, while enjoying music by DJ Big Wave. After her reading, Kelle Jolly will take the stage for a soul-stirring Holiday Jazz Concert, filling the room with the joy, rhythm, and spirit of the season. It’s a performance you won’t forget!

 🛍️ BIPOC Holiday Market Vendors
Make sure to check out our vibrant BIPOC Holiday Market featuring these talented local artisans and makers from WNC! 

Happy Fall, y’all! 

November is National Family Literacy Month, a time to celebrate the power of reading together and the lasting impact literacy has on families, classrooms, and communities.

At Read 2 Succeed (R2S), we believe that literacy opens doors for every learner, each and every day. Reading together strengthens family bonds, builds confidence, and helps children develop skills that last a lifetime. That’s why we’re proud to offer a variety of free resources to make reading fun and accessible for all.

Explore the R2S Website
Our R2S website is your go-to hub for literacy support and inspiration. Whether you’re a parent, volunteer, or educator, you’ll find tools and tips designed to make reading part of everyday life.
Here’s what you can explore online:

• Family Literacy Resources: Access reading guides, a directory of free reading apps, and children’s book recommendations.
• Monthly Newsletters: Stay updated with age-appropriate literacy activities, family literacy ideas, and free online read-alouds.
• Upcoming Events: Learn about free literacy events and family-friendly activities happening in Asheville.
• Volunteer Opportunities: Discover how you can get involved and make a difference through reading.

Connecting Through Community
Don’t forget! Your family can access free books and literacy materials at our local library branches and Free Little Libraries around Asheville and Buncombe County. 

Join the Movement
This National Family Literacy Month, we’re reminded that reading grows stronger when we do it together. Every story shared and every book opened helps build a brighter, more connected community. If you’re inspired to get involved, we’d love to have you join our team of dedicated volunteers - learn more here and help us share the joy of reading with children and families in our community here. 

Thank you for being part of the Read 2 Succeed family, and for helping us keep the love of reading alive for children and families across Asheville and beyond!

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Related Articles: 
10 Ways to Celebrate National Family Literacy Month