Sometimes a story begins with “once upon a time.” Sometimes it begins with a question, a mystery, or a moment of curiosity that sends a character on an adventure. Wherever they start, stories help us explore the world, and ourselves, one page at a time.
That spirit is exactly what World Storytelling Day, celebrated each year around the March equinox, is all about. On this global day of storytelling, people around the world share tales in different languages, cultures, and traditions. The goal is simple: bring people together through the timeless art of storytelling.
Storytelling is the heart of the library experience. Stories spark imagination, build empathy, and help young readers discover new ideas, perspectives, and possibilities.
To celebrate this year’s World Storytelling Day—and its theme, “Light in the Dark”—the ORL’s Youth Services librarians have curated a special reading list for young readers and families.
Stories of Light
The Courage of the Little Hummingbird by Leah Henderson
A beautifully illustrated retelling of a global folktale about a tiny hummingbird who shows that courage, determination, and small actions can inspire a whole community.
Kapaemahu by Hinaleimoana Wong-Kalu
This powerful picture book tells the story of four healers of dual male and female spirit who journey from Tahiti to Hawai‘i, sharing their gifts of compassion and healing.
The Origin of Day and Night by Paula Ikuutaq Rumbolt
In this traditional Inuit tale, a hare and a fox speak powerful words that transform a world without time into one with day and night, revealing how stories passed down through generations help explain the rhythms of the Arctic.
Let It Shine! A Celebration of You by Carole Boston Weatherford
Set to the rhythm of This Little Light of Mine, this joyful picture book celebrates the big and small moments that make each person unique.
Raven Brings the Light by Roy Henry Vickers
In this traditional Northwest Coast story, a boy named Weget uses his raven skin to journey into the sky and cleverly bring light to a world that has only known darkness.
Luna and the Sky Dragon by Bethan Woollvin
Curious stargazer Luna helps her worried village look past their fear of the mythical Sky Dragon by sharing the beauty of the night sky and the real wonders hidden among the stars.
Stories of Night
Stories of the Night by Kitty Crowther
Four gentle bedtime tales follow Little Bear and her new friends through mysterious forests, brave adventures, and sleepy moments, celebrating the quiet magic of nighttime storytelling.
Tokyo Night Parade by J. P. Takahashi
When the magical Night Parade of yokai fills the streets of Tokyo, Eka joins the swirling crowd of spirits and monsters for a dazzling night of music, mischief, and celebration she never wants to end.
Ancient Night by David Bowles
Drawing on Nahuatl traditions, this lyrical story follows the clever Lord Opossum as he steals fire from the gods to bring light to the world.
Noises of the Night: A Canadian Lullaby by Alana Pidwerbeski
This soothing Canadian lullaby gently guides children to sleep with the comforting nighttime sounds of frogs, wolves, owls, ocean waves, and even distant city traffic.
Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark by Alvin Schwartz
This classic collection of spine-tingling folktales, eerie songs, and ghostly encounters delivers just the right mix of chills and jump scares for readers who enjoy a good fright.
The Night Is for Darkness by Jonathan Stutzman
This lyrical bedtime story celebrates the quiet beauty of nighttime and the tender family moments that unfold as the world settles into sleep.
Reading together is one of the simplest ways to celebrate storytelling. Whether it’s a bedtime story, a favourite chapter shared aloud, or a child discovering a book they can’t put down, those moments become stories of their own. So this World Storytelling Day, consider picking up a new book, sharing a favourite story, or discovering a new character who might just stay with you for years to come. After all, every great story starts with someone turning the first page.
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