Looking for fun, free ways to keep your child reading this summer? You're in luck! Summer is the perfect time to build joyful reading habits—and with a little extra motivation (hello, free books, sweet treats, and even pizza!), kids might just surprise you with how much they read.
We’ve rounded up 7 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. 1. Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Journal 📚 Prize: A free book of your choice 🗓 When: July–August 2025 ✍️ How it works: Download the Summer Reading Journal (English or Spanish), have your child read 8 books, and write a short response for each. Bring the completed journal to a Barnes & Noble store and pick out a free book from the summer reading list! 2. Panda Express “Read with Me” Program 🍱 Prize: A free kids meal 📖 How it works: Sign up for the Read with Me program online. You’ll get printable bookmarks and fun materials. Once your child reads 5 books, you’ll receive a coupon for a free kids meal. 3. Nothing Bundt Cakes “Books & Bundts” 🎂 Prize: A free mini bundt cake 📅 When: June 1 – August 31, 2025 🕒 How it works: Kids PreK–elementary can track 400 minutes of reading (just 15 minutes a day!). Download or pick up a reading tracker at your local Asheville store, then turn it in for a sweet reward. All three Asheville locations are participating! 4. Buncombe County Libraries Summer Reading Challenge 📖 Prize: A free book, bookmark & kiddie scoop from The Hop 🌈 For ages: 0–18 📍 Where: At any of Buncombe County’s 12 public libraries 🗺 How it works: Pick up an activity sheet at your nearest library. Complete 10 fun reading-related activities and return the sheet for a free book, bookmark, and a scoop of ice cream from The Hop. Details here. 5. Chuck E. Cheese Rewards Calendar 🎮 Prize: 10 free play points 📆 When: Ongoing through 12/31/25 📝 How it works: Download the Reading Rewards Calendar, track two weeks of reading, and bring it to any Chuck E. Cheese for free play points. 6. Pizza Hut “Book It!” Digital Program 🍕 Prize: Monthly reward certificate for a free one-topping Personal Pan Pizza 📲 How it works: Parents and caregivers can sign up online to track reading through the Book It! digital dashboard. Kids in PreK–6th grade can earn a pizza reward each month from June to August. 7. Little Free Libraries Around Asheville 📚 Prize: Free books, anytime 🏘 Where: All around Asheville neighborhoods! 🔍 How it works: Visit a Little Free Library near you, take a book, leave a book, or just explore. It’s a free, year-round way to build your home library and discover new stories together. Let Reading Be the Reward From bundt cakes to books, Asheville’s local libraries, businesses, and national programs are making reading even more rewarding this summer. Whether your child is already a bookworm or just starting to warm up to reading, these programs offer something special to help keep the joy of learning alive all season long. 🌞 Take Action Today: Choose one or two programs to explore this week. Set a reading goal with your child. Then celebrate their progress—big or small. You’ve got this! Want more reading ideas and activities for kids? Check out our monthly Family Reading Newsletter with book recommendations, check out our blog, or follow us on social media @r2sasheville for tips, book picks, and local literacy events happening all summer.
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Looking for a book-tastic way to support Read 2 Succeed *and* an incredible local BIPOC-owned bookstore?
Support the Cuentos y Café Summer Reading Book Drive now through June 30, 2025! 1. Purchase and donate children's books at Cuentos y Café pop-ups around Asheville during June - check out their upcoming events. 2. Purchase children's books at the Cuentos y Café online store and ship to Cuentos y Café owner: Tamara Olmedo, 528 Emma Road Asheville, NC 28806. Shop the online bookstore wish list! All donated books will go directly to local families through Read 2 Succeed's family reading events and student book bundles! Follow Cuentos y Café BIPOC Bookstore on Instagram and help spread the word! Books give families an amazing opportunity to center stories, experiences, and history they may have never heard. What better example of this than read-alouds about Juneteenth, an important historical event that just became recognized as a federal holiday in 2021. Take a moment to explore these child-friendly books and learn more about how your family can honor the history of this holiday. 1. “The Juneteenth Story: Celebrating the End of Slavery in the United States (Holiday Celebration)” written by Alliah L. Agostini and illustrated by Sawyer Cloud Using colorful illustrations and clear and kid-friendly language, this book explains how, despite Independence Day, June 19, 1865 became the true day of freedom for Texas’s enslaved people. “The Juneteenth Story” does a great job outlining the timeline of Juneteenth- sharing how enslaved Africans first learned they were free to describing early Jubilee Day celebrations to Jim Crow restrictions to how Juneteenth became a federally recognized U.S. holiday. Listen to a live read-aloud - click here. 2. “Juneteenth for Mazie” written by Floyd Cooper Mazie learns about her Grandpa Mose, both his experience being enslaved and the celebrations that came with learning about the Emancipation Proclamation. She's ready to celebrate a pivotal moment in American history—the day her ancestors were finally freed from slavery. Mazie is filled with pride as she learns about the African American fight for freedom, from Juneteenth to the Civil Rights Movement. As Juneteenth approaches, Mazie reflects on the hardships they endured and the victories they achieved, embracing the significance of this powerful day. Listen to a live read-aloud - click here. 3. “Opal Lee and What It Means to Be Free: The True Story of the Grandmother of Juneteenth” written by Alice Faye Duncan and illustrated by Keturah A. Bobo This picture books recounts the true story of Opal Lee, an inspiring woman who faced injustice as a child and dreamed of making Juneteenth a national holiday. Follow Opal Lee’s story as she shares with her grandchildren what it was like to live through Emancipation, Jim Crow, and to fight for justice, and find moments of joy and celebration. This inspiring historical account shows how one brave woman, rooted in history and hope, turned pain into power and helped the world remember that freedom belongs to everyone. Listen to a live read-aloud - click here. 4. “A Flag for Juneteenth”written by Kim Taylor In A Flag for Juneteenth, young Huldah turns ten the same day freedom comes to her Texas community. Through stunning quilted art, author Kim Taylor brings the joy, hope, and unity of that first Juneteenth to life in this story of Huldah and her family as they create a one-of-a-kind representation of their freedom. Listen to a live read-aloud - click here. 5. “Juneteenth: A Children’s Story Special Edition” written by Opal Lee This communal read-aloud of Juneteenth: A Children’s Story Special Edition, teaches young readers about the history of enslavement, freedom, and the importance of Juneteenth. Ms. Opal Lee, considered the Grandmother of Juneteenth, shares these experiences in a way that encourages understanding and meaningful conversations. Listen to a live read-aloud - click here. 6. “Let’s Celebrate Juneteenth” written by Tonya Abari and illustrated by Tabitha Brown Celebrate freedom with Let’s Celebrate Juneteenth, a vibrant board book for babies and toddlers! Little ones are introduced to Juneteenth with bold, colorful art and lots of rhymes. This read aloud is a great introduction for Toddlers to the celebration and history of Juneteenth. Listen to a live read-aloud - click here. 7. “All Different Now: Juneteenth the 1st Day of Freedom” written by Angela Johnson and illustrated by E.B. Lewis Celebrate the spirit of Juneteenth through the eyes of a young girl in All Different Now, a beautifully illustrated story about the day freedom reached the last enslaved people in the South and the night that followed—marking a new beginning and a powerful moment in American history. Listen to a live read-aloud - click here. 8. “The Night Before Freedom: A Juneteenth Story” written by Glenda Armand and illustrated by Corey Barksdale In this heartfelt story told in lyrical rhyme, young David hears his grandma recount the first Juneteenth—when freedom finally reached Galveston, Texas. Inspired by family tradition and history, this picture book honors the legacy of emancipation for generations to come. Listen to a live read-aloud - click here. 9. “Juneteenth Jamboree” written by Carole Boston Weatherford and illustrated by Yvonne Buchanan Cassie feels out of place after moving to Texas—until a surprise Juneteenth celebration fills her day with the joy of tradition! Through food, family, and festivity, she discovers the historical meaning of freedom for people who look like her. Through this heartfelt tribute to heritage and belonging, we follow Cassie as she starts to feel at home and learn about Juneteenth. Listen to a live read-aloud - click here. 10. “Jaylen’s Juneteenth Surprise” written by Lavaille Lavette and illustrated by David Wilkerson Jayylen learns about Juneteenth from his Paw Paw Jimmy, who shares its meaning and music. Excited for the celebration Jayylen practices playing the frottoir, a washboard instrument played in Zydeco music. Follow Jayylen and family as they prepare a special surprise to honor the day when freedom was finally announced to enslaved African Americans. Listen to a live read-aloud - click here. Related articles:
10 Books Featuring BIPOC Main Characters About the Transition to Kindergarten R2S Recommends "Black Girl, Black Girl" R2S Recommends "Black Boy, Black Boy" 10 Back to School Books Featuring Black Characters 5 Ice Cream Inspired Reading Tips & Ideas 11 Children's Books About LOVE Featuring Black Characters 6 Children's Books Celebrating Creativity and Imagination Using culturally responsive children's books during the transition from Pre-K to Kindergarten helps children feel seen and valued. The following recommended books reflect diverse identities, especially from BIPOC communities, fostering a sense of belonging. When children see characters like themselves, it builds trust, encourages curiosity, and supports language development, while promoting empathy and respect in the classroom and communities. Celebrate the huge transition to kindergarten milestone with these 10 titles recommended by R2S: “KINDergarten: Where Kindness Matters Every Day” written by Vera Ahiyya and illustrated by Joey Cho It's Leo's first day of Kindergarten, and he's nervous. His teacher, Ms. Perry, asked students to think of ways to show kindness. At the end of the day, classmates mention Leo returning crayons, holding the door, and helping a friend. Leo smiles, realizing he already knows kindness. Listen to a live read-aloud here. “I Am Smart, I Am Blessed, I Can Do Anything!” written by Alissa Holder and Zulekha Holder-Young and illustrated by Nneka Myers Ayaan wakes up on the wrong side of the bed, feeling like nothing’s going his way. What if he doesn’t know the answer at school? What if he messes up? But as he steps out the door, his mom and some friendly neighbors are there with a reminder: HE IS SMART, HE IS BLESSED, AND HE CAN DO ANYTHING! With a little boost of positive energy, Ayaan’s day turns around, and he’s ready to take on whatever comes his way! Listen to a live read-aloud here. “The King of Kindergarten” written by Derrick Barnes and Illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton The morning sun shines like a crown as a confident little boy prepares for his first day of kindergarten. He's dressed, eaten pancakes, and ready to join a new kingdom of kids. Throughout the day, he faces new challenges with excitement, eager to share his achievements with his parents afterward. Derrick Barnes' empowering story, with joyful illustrations by Vanessa Brantley-Newton, gives new kindergarteners a confidence boost. Listen to a live read-aloud here. “The Queen of Kindergarten” written by Derrick Barnes and illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton MJ is all set for her first day of kindergarten! With her hair braided and a special tiara on her head, she’s ready to rock the day. The tiara reminds her of all the awesome things she brings to school—kindness, friendliness, and even soccer skills! This fun, confidence-boosting story is perfect for getting little ones excited for kindergarten! Listen to a live read-aloud here. “The Day You Begin” written by Jacqueline Woodson and illustrated by Rafael López In this heartfelt book, National Book Award winner Jacqueline Woodson and illustrator Rafael López explore the courage it takes to connect, even when you feel different or alone. Through lyrical text and vibrant art, they remind us that everyone feels like an outsider at times, but by sharing our stories, we can find others who will meet us halfway. Listen to a live read-aloud here. “What Will I Be?” written by Jayla Joseph This fun and uplifting book is perfect for kids ages 3-7! It shows that you can be anything you dream of, featuring a variety of careers in a simple, engaging way. It's a great read for all kids, encouraging everyone to celebrate differences and learn about BIPOC characters from a young age! Listen to a live read-aloud here. “Black Boy Be You” written by Latoshia Martin "Black Boy Be You!" is a joyful, empowering story that celebrates self-love and confidence. When Isaiah notices he's a little different from his friends during a day at the playground, he learns to embrace what makes him special. Perfect for inspiring young Black boys to love who they are—inside and out! Listen to a live read-aloud here. “You Come From Greatness” written by Sara Chinakee and illustrated by Ken Daley Born to Shine is a vibrant celebration of Black history and pride! Guided by his father's words, a young boy learns he's part of a powerful legacy—filled with inventors, leaders, and storytellers—and that he was born to do great things, too! Listen to a live read-aloud here. “I Affirm Me: The ABC’s of Inspiration for Black Kid” written by Nyasha Williams and illustrated by Sofya Glushko This is one of those books every Black child should have on their shelf. It’s an ABC of powerful affirmations—from A is for Afro to J is for Justice—that celebrates who they are and where they come from. It’s all about helping kids feel proud, confident, and full of love, while showing them just how magical they already are. Listen to a live read-aloud here. “Brown Boy Brown Boy What Can You Be?” written by Ameshia Arthur
Join Matthew as he dreams big and explores all the amazing things he can become! From building skyscrapers to healing the sick, Matthew imagines a world full of possibilities. This uplifting story encourages young readers to believe in themselves, aim high, and know that with confidence and determination, they can achieve anything. Listen to a live read-aloud here. Did you know that due to Hurricane Helene, Buncombe County cut nearly $4.7 million in funding to Asheville City Schools and Buncombe County Schools in January 2025? Simultaneously, early childhood centers are trying to stay afloat amidst staffing shortages and facilities and operations impacts from the storm. As relief funding and support reaches important stages for public comment. we are calling on our amazing R2S community to advocate for literacy and education! Local students have missed upward of a month of school this year due to the storm and winter weather early in 2025 – they need and deserve as much support as possible, and your voice is critical to ensuring our literacy and learning ecosystem stays strong. Use the links below to read more and leave feedback about draft action plans for relief funding and education support. City of Asheville releases Community Development Block Grant - Disaster Relief (CDBG-DR) Draft Action Plan Outlining unmet needs caused by Hurricane Helene within the Asheville city limits, the $225 million CDBG-DR grant Draft Action Plan also highlights the proposed programs and activities to be funded. Community members can leave feedback on the plan through a public comment platform open through April 3, 2025. Click here to review the draft action plan and leave public comment. Want to discuss more with folks in the community before you leave comment? Check out two remaining Equity Inquiry Parties hosted by The People's Place AVL. Together, the community is taking some powerful first steps toward putting together a strong analysis of the City’s draft plan for using an expected influx of $225 million in federal money for disaster recovery. Click here to learn more and see the schedule of remaining sessions (join in person or online). "Mo Wants to Know": Public Feedback for North Carolina Superintendent of Public Instruction Maurice "Mo" Green
NC Department of Public Instruction is looking for community insights in alignment with the six pillars outlined in Superintendent Mo Green's Entry Plan: (1) prepare each student for their next phase in life, (2) invest fully in public education, (3) revere public school educators, (4) enhance parent and community support and partnerships, (5) Community members can read Mo Green's entry plan and leave feedback on a public form. Click here to review the draft entry plan and leave feedback. R2S is thrilled to celebrate the release of "Black Girl, Black Girl" co-authored by Asheville native Jorge Redmond and his friend Ali Kamanda. "Black Girl, Black Girl" is an inspirational walk through history where families can meet change-makers like Wilma Rudolph, Mae Jemison, Kamala Harris, among others. The lyrical rhyming text and vibrant artwork mimic Redmond and Kamanda's first book, "Black Boy, Black Boy," and bring all the magic and inspiration to fuel the next generation of heroes! Join Read 2 Succeed and author Jorge Redmond for Black Children's Book Week in Asheville! Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025 5:30 PM - 7:30 pm Pisgah View Apartments Community Center Download a free Family Reading Guide for "Black Girl, Black Girl" HERE. Watch a video of "Black Girl, Black Girl" read aloud by Read 2 Succeed Co-Executive Director Ashley Allen HERE. Download the free printable extension activity for "Black Girl, Black Girl" - click the image below.
Black Children's Book Week (BCBW) is an exciting worldwide event that shines a light on the importance of Black representation in children’s literature. This year, BCBW takes place Sun. February 23 - Sat. March 1, 2025. Celebrated annually during the last week of February, BCBW brings together parents, educators, librarians, authors, illustrators, publishers, and community advocates to uplift and support Black children’s books and creators. Celebrate BCBW with three special events in Asheville this year! 📚✨ Join Read To Succeed for an Unforgettable Black Children’s Book Week Celebration! ✨📚 What: Black Children's Book Week in Asheville (Featuring "Black Girl, Black Girl" by Jorge Redmond and Ali Kamanda) Where: Pisgah View Apartments Community Center (1 Granada St. Asheville 28806) When: February 27, 2025 Time: 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM We’re overjoyed to welcome local author Jorge Redmond as he shares his heartwarming and empowering new book, "Black Girl, Black Girl!" 🎉 🌟 What to Expect:
Bring your family, friends, and neighbors for a fun-filled evening of storytelling, play, celebration and community! Don’t miss this chance to meet the talented Jorge Redmond and be inspired by his incredible work. Join R2S as we bring the magic of Black Children’s Book Week to life with a day packed with joy, inspiration, and connection! 🎉✨ What: R2S Pages & Plates Family Night Where: Maple Crest Apartments Community Center (20 Lee Garden Ln, Asheville, NC 28801) When: Saturday, March 1st, 2025 Time: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM Parents, caregivers, and guardians, this one’s for you! Kick back and let your creativity flow with a fun and relaxing paint & sip session while discovering simple, effective tips on helping with homework at home– from how to make homework time easier to how to boost your child's love for reading. 🖌️📚 This is your chance to unwind, connect with other amazing parents and caregivers, and build community in a warm, welcoming atmosphere—all while celebrating the power of literacy and the brilliance of our children. 🌟 Free dinner will be provided for all attendees plus childcare, homework help resources, books, and more! With great food, fun activities, and plenty of laughs, this event is perfect for families looking to make learning an adventure. 📚✨ Join Books Alive! With Ms. Ann for nightly live read-alouds during Black Children's Book Week! ✨📚 Get ready for an exciting celebration of Black Children's Book Week with Ms. Ann as she brings stories to life with engaging read-alouds by Black children’s book authors! 🎉📖 📅 Dates: Feb 23, 24, 25, 26 and 28th ⏰ Time: 7:15 PM (ET) 📍 Facebook.com/BooksAliveWithMsAnn Join virtually on Facebook live during Black Children’s Book Week for for a fun-filled storytelling experience the whole family will love! Get ready for bedtime with your little readers and immerse them in inspiring, joyful, and powerful stories by Black children’s book authors. 🎈✨ Check out two books R2S is sponsoring in the Black Children's Book Museum. These books are written by incredible Black children's book authors connected to the Asheville area - "I Heard: An American Journey" by Jaha Avery and "Black Girl, Black Girl" by Jorge Redmond and Ali Kamanda.
Jaha Avery—acclaimed lawyer, thought leader, and passionate advocate for justice—presents "I Heard: An American Journey," a compelling and beautiful work that explores themes of heritage, identity, culture, family, and resilience.
Drawing from her rich background in civil rights law and advocacy, Avery weaves a powerful narrative that speaks to the heart of the Black American experience. Fun fact, Avery has family roots in Western North Carolina, and specifically the Asheville area too! Through lyrical rhyming storytelling and sharp insight, "I Heard" examines the echoes of history in personal and collective memory, tracing the journey of individuals navigating race, belonging, and self-discovery in a complex society.
Watch a free read-aloud of "I Heard" below!
Download the free printable Student Reading Guide for "I Heard" HERE.
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R2S Recommends "Black Girl, Black Girl" R2S Recommends "Black Boy, Black Boy" 10 Back to School Books Featuring Black Characters 5 Ice Cream Inspired Reading Tips & Ideas 11 Children's Books About LOVE Featuring Black Characters 6 Children's Books Celebrating Creativity and Imagination Do you have a New Year's intention to get more involved in your community? To support nonprofits and causes you care about?
R2S has you covered with five essential ways to support our community-powered literacy programs in Asheville and Buncombe County. 1. Sign up to be a Reading Tutor Due to Helene, local students missed more than a month of school. Now, more than ever, they deserve the absolute best our community can give them to support their education! New training dates for volunteer tutors are right around the corner, and now is the time to sign up! All new volunteer reading tutors are required to complete a minimum of six hours of training (two hours a day spread across three days) of training. WHAT: R2S Volunteer Tutor Training DATES: Wednesdays, Jan. 15, 22, and 29th, 2025 WHERE: 6 PM - 8 PM on Zoom Click HERE to learn more and complete a Volunteer Application today! 2. Become a Monthly Donor Sustained giving really adds up for grassroots nonprofits like R2S!
3. Follow R2S on Social Media One of the best ways to stay up to date on all the latest R2S happenings - from volunteer opportunities to family reading events, guest author visits, and press - is to follow us at @r2sasheville on Instagram, Facebook, X and LinkedIn. 4. Join our Page Turners Circle R2S Page Turners Circle members receive special R2S swag, get exclusive updates from Co-Executive Directors, and attend special events. Any donor giving more than $1,000 in a calendar year automatically becomes an R2S Page Turners Circle member! Click HERE to learn more and join the Page Turners Circle today! 5. Learn about the youth literacy crisis Did you know that more than half of all NC third-graders do *not* read on grade level? When you sub-aggregate that data by race and income level, the numbers are even more astonishing. The BEST way to support literacy is to learn about how our city, state and country got to this crisis and how educators everywhere are using the Science of Reading to reverse the curve and show up for students in unprecedented ways. Stream "The Right to Read" documentary, listen to "Sold a Story" podcast, and follow R2S in the press to get started. The Read 2 Succeed blog was a rich resource in 2024, featuring children's book recommendations, free printable literacy activities, family reading ideas, and much more. Check out our top 8 posts from 2024 below!
1. 13 ABC Books Featuring Black and Brown Characters & Celebrating All Bodies Print awareness, letter recognition, and learning letter sound names are critical components of early literacy skills children acquire in PreK and kindergarten. This fan-favorite blog post features incredible BIPOC-centered ABC books that help children learn their ABC's and everything that comes with them! 2. 8 More Black Children's Books About LOVE A follow-up to our most-visited post in 2023, this Valentines-inspired blog post celebrates love of family, self, and community. Book recommendations feature incredible authors like Kevin Lewis, Lupita Nyong'o, and Ama KariKari-Yawson - don't miss it! 3. Meet Ms. Ann Davis | Read 2 Succeed's New Storytime Specialist R2S was thrilled to welcome literacy champion and founder of Books Alive! with Mrs. Ann to the team in the spring of 2024 as our new Storytime Specialist. Mrs. Ann reads in Head Start and PreK classrooms across the county with partners at Community Action Opportunities and Christine W. Avery Learning Center as well as at school and community events. 4. 5 Summer-Inspired Reading Activities for Elementary Students We soaked up the summer sun with free printable reading activities for students and families to enjoy over break. From A-Z scavenger hunts to reading challenges and more, there was no end to the literacy fun that helps kids keep reading skills sharp while they are out of school. 5. 5 Summer-Inspired Literacy Activities for Pre-K Students Embrace the amazing amount of brain development happening 0 - 5 years old with these seasonal literacy activities for pre-kindergarteners. Ideas included free printable ice cream cone letters to playing "I Spy" with sounds, and more! 6. 10 Children's Books With Black Olympians R2S celebrated the 2024 Summer Olympics with a fun post featuring incredible children's books all about different Black Olympians, including Usain Bolt, Wilma Rudolph, Simone Biles, Muhammad Ali, Vonetta Flowers, Jesse Owens, and more! 7. Autumn-Inspired Literacy Activities for Elementary Students Free printable reading activities in this fall-tastic blog article included a synonyms puzzle, autumn code breaker, and magical madlibs! Engaging multi-sensory activities that get kids reading are sure-fire ways to create positive experiences with learning that will last a lifetime. 8. Working With Children After Crisis & Disaster With the support of Child Life Disaster Relief, R2S was able to offer training to volunteer tutors and community partners following Hurricane Helene all about trauma-informed support for children. Our blog post from Elementary Literacy Directory Lindsey Sterrett shares key best practices for supporting students after a disaster - from emotional regulation to handling big questions and building relationships. Related Posts: Best of 2023┃Read to Succeed Blog |
About R2S
Read to Succeed Asheville/Buncombe (R2S) is a local, independent nonprofit on a mission to help close the Archives
July 2025
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