This summer, the Kinnect Foundation by Kith hosted a joyful and inspiring Community Read-Aloud Series at our Kith Kids Dumbo location, bringing together families, authors, and young readers for mornings filled with storytelling, creativity, and connection.
A Beach Day with Author Ashley Woodfolk
We kicked off the series with Ashley Woodfolk, who joined us to share her picture book, Beach Hair, a heartfelt story about a multiracial family’s trip to the beach celebrating all different types of hair and the beauty of individuality. Families enjoyed a live reading, hands-on activities inspired by the book, sweet Kith Treats, and a magical ride on the famous Jane’s Carousel along the Brooklyn waterfront. Ashley’s book is available at Kith Kids stores, and you can learn more about the Brooklyn-based author at ashleywoodfolk.com.
Growing Community with Tony Hillery of Harlem Grown
Next, we welcomed Tony Hillery, founder of the urban farming nonprofit Harlem Grown, who shared his inspiring book, Harlem Grown: How One Big Idea Transformed a Neighborhood. Based on the real story of how Harlem Grown began with the help of local public school students, Tony brought his message of community, youth empowerment, and access to fresh food to life.Our young attendees enjoyed a live reading, a signed copy of the book, and custom Harlem Grown - inspired baskets complete with seeds, planters, and art activities. Of course, the morning wouldn’t be complete without Kith Treats and another spin on the carousel. Proceeds from Harlem Grown support students’ college funds. The book is available at Kith Kids stores, and you can learn more or get involved at harlemgrown.org.
The Power of Pride with Olympic Medalist Ibtihaj Muhammad
To close out our summer series, we were honored to host Olympic medalist and author Ibtihaj Muhammad, who read her empowering picture book, The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijab and Family. The story follows two sisters, Asiya and Faizah, on their first day of school as Asiya wears her blue hijab for the first time. When classmates make unkind remarks, the sisters draw strength from family, faith, and cultural pride, a message that resonated deeply with our young readers and families alike. Attendees received signed copies of the book, custom portraits drawn live by illustrator Jade Sta Ana, gift baskets, Kith Treats, and refreshing ice cream to celebrate the end of summer in true Kith Kids fashion. The Proudest Blue is available at Kith Kids stores and you can learn more about the author at ibtihajmuhammad.com.
Through stories of love, growth, and pride, our Summer Community Read-Aloud Series brought together authors, kids, and families to celebrate the power of reading and the joy of community.
