R2S Recommends: "Ice Cream Man: How Augustus Jackson Made a Sweet Treat Better" by Glenda Armand and Kim Freeman

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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