10 Years of Read-Aloud Magic:
The Top 10 Brightly Storytime Videos of the Last Decade
by the Brightly Editors
Ten years ago, Brightly Storytime set out with a simple goal: to bring wonderful children’s books to life for families everywhere. Since then, we’ve shared hundreds of stories, welcomed special guests, celebrated beloved characters, and created reading moments for millions of young book lovers.
To celebrate our 10th anniversary, we’re counting down ten unforgettable Brightly Storytime videos that helped define the past decade. Whether you’ve been watching since the beginning or are discovering the channel for the first time, we hope these favorites inspire your next read-aloud.
⭐ By the Numbers ⭐
- 10 years of Brightly Storytime
- 450+ read-aloud videos
- More than 200K subscribers
- Over 70 million views
- One beloved storyteller: Ms. Linda
Let’s celebrate ten years of stories!
#10: The Story That Started So Many Reading Adventures
The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle
Could there be a more fitting way to begin our countdown? The Very Hungry Caterpillar has introduced generations of children to the joy of picture books, and it’s become one of the most-loved videos on the Brightly Storytime channel. Eric Carle’s timeless story continues to delight young readers with its colorful illustrations, playful repetition, and unforgettable ending.
#9: The Story That Celebrates Every Child
All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold, illustrated by Suzanne Kaufman
At Brightly, we’ve always believed every child deserves to see themselves in a story. That’s one reason we’re especially proud to feature All Are Welcome, a joyful celebration of belonging, community, and inclusion. As one of the books most frequently challenged and banned in recent years, its message feels more meaningful than ever. We’re honored to continue celebrating stories that champion empathy, diversity, and the freedom to read.
#8: The Story That Took Us to New Heights
Busy Busy Airport by Richard Scarry
Not every Storytime stays inside the studio! For this episode, we took readers on a real-world adventure with a visit to an actual airport, bringing the excitement of travel to life in a whole new way. It remains one of our most ambitious productions — and one of our favorites to create.
#7: The Story That Brought the Muppets to Brightly
We’re Amazing 1,2,3! by Leslie Kimmelman, illustrated by Mary Beth Nelson
Some Storytimes come with unforgettable guests — and this one brought the Muppets into our studio! Watching beloved Sesame Street friends Abby Cadabby and Julia help celebrate differences, friendship, and inclusion made this episode an instant standout. It’s joyful, funny, and full of heart.
#6: The Story That Inspired Millions
The Lorax by Dr. Seuss
“The trees can’t be trees without me.”
Dr. Seuss’s environmental classic has inspired readers for decades, and it has become the single most-viewed video on the Brightly Storytime channel, with more than 6.8 million views. Its timeless message about caring for our world continues to resonate with new generations of readers.
#5: The Story That Had Us Singing Along
Señorita Mariposa by Ben Gundersheimer, illustrated by Marcos Almada Rivero
This episode holds a special place in Brightly Storytime history as our very first — and so far only — musical guest appearance. Featuring Latin Grammy-winning artist Mister G, Señorita Mariposa invites children to celebrate nature, migration, and kindness through both story and song.
#4: The Story That Encourages Kids to Dream Big
Let’s Fly! by Barrington Irving and Chana Stiefel, illustrated by Shamar Knight-Justice
Some stories invite us to imagine what’s possible, and Let’s Fly! does exactly that. Based on the true story of pilot Barrington Irving, the first Black man and youngest person to fly solo around the world, this inspiring read-aloud celebrates perseverance, curiosity, and the power of dreaming big. It’s an uplifting reminder that one person, one mentor, and one big idea can change the course of a life.
#3: The Story That Proves Mistakes Make the Best Memories
Mistaco: A Tale of Tragedy y Tortillas by Eliza Kinkz
One mistake leads to one hilarious adventure in Mistaco, a joyful bilingual read-aloud full of expressive illustrations, clever wordplay, and laugh-out-loud moments. Izzy’s day has gone from bad to worse as she makes one mistake after another. Thankfully, her loving, supportive family helps her see the humor in her day by making mistake tacos. It’s an energetic Storytime that celebrates resilience, creativity, and the joy of sharing books in more than one language.
#2: The Story That Celebrates Every Kind of Love
Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry, illustrated by Vashti Harrison
With warmth, humor, and heart, Hair Love celebrates family, self-confidence, and the special bond between a father and daughter. Watching Dad tackle Zuri’s beautiful natural hair is both funny and touching, reminding readers that love often shines brightest in everyday moments. It’s an unforgettable read-aloud that helps children see themselves reflected in stories — and one we’re proud to share on Brightly Storytime.
#1: The Story That Keeps Everyone Guessing
The Book That Almost Rhymed by Omar Abed, illustrated by Hatem Aly
Just when you think you know where this story is headed…it surprises you. The Book That Almost Rhymed is a laugh-out-loud read-aloud that celebrates imagination, sibling teamwork, and the fun of thinking outside the box. As one sibling tries to tell the perfect rhyming story, the other keeps delightfully derailing it with unexpected twists. The result? A playful adventure that invites kids to laugh, predict what comes next, and discover that the best stories don’t always go according to plan.
Here’s to the Next Chapter
Brightly Storytime has become so much more than a YouTube channel. It’s been part of classroom read-alouds, library story hours, and family moments around the world.
Whether you’ve watched one video or one hundred, thank you for reading along with us.
Here’s to ten incredible years — and to many more stories still to come.