The Denver Public Library is excited to cap off Children’s Books Week, a nationwide celebration of children’s books, with the help of our Phone-a-Story special guest, Denver City Councilman Chris Hinds!
Listen to the Councilman read The Wump World by Bill Peet through May 13, by dialing (720) 865-8500 and pressing 3.
Call into a Phone-a-Story for tales full of fun and excitement! Children's books open children to a world of wonder encouraging them to use their imagination. Books also quench a child’s inquisitive mind by answering their many questions.
Every Tuesday, Phone-a-Story uploads something new to listen to. With 24/7 access to Phone-a-Story, you get free children’s stories, songs, and rhyme recordings available in English, Spanish, Amharic, and Vietnamese for different age groups!
Phone-A-Story Guest Star Profile
Councilman Chris Hinds made history as the state's first elected official who uses a wheelchair. An influential advocate, he's testified in both Denver and D.C., addressing legislative committees and sharing his expertise on transportation, access, and disability issues. Councilman Hinds' commitment led to the Chris Hinds Act, which expanded parking rights for disabled drivers and was signed into law by then-Governor Hickenlooper in May 2018. He is currently serving his second term as the Council representative for "Denver's Perfect 10" district.
More About the Featured Telephone Tale
Councilman Hinds chose The Wump World by Bill Peet because he felt it was a story with a great lesson that still rings true today. He says, “ It is a story my mom read to me when I was little. Given today's climate (both literally and politically), I see this as a relevant story for today, too.” The tale revolves around fictional creatures called “Wumps” and their fight for the survival of their planet as a new threat begins to widdle down their home.
The Councilman is a huge advocate for libraries. His passion stems from his experiences as a child and his mother who relied on resources provided by their local library. He says, “I'm the only child of a single mom, and I grew up poor. Libraries were a place where my mom and I could go that was climate-controlled (a luxury during the hot Texas summers), educational, and free. It gave me resources I would not have otherwise had.” In 2024, he still believes libraries are vital in a child's life, “Children having access to libraries is as essential now as it was when I was young.”
Are you looking for more children's books like the one the Councilman read? Take a look at this list of similar titles below::
Love, the Earth by Frances Stickley
Love, the Earth is an enchanting story that gives readers the perfect chance to see all the facets of the Earth, its mysteries, its generosity, and its unparalleled beauty. It is also a powerful call to arms to look after the Earth in turn. Combining charming, rhyming text and spectacular artwork, this book is a magnificent celebration of the Earth.
Over and under the pond by Kate Messner
Celebrates the forms of life that live above and under a pond, including turtles, red-winged blackbirds, blue herons, minnows, frogs, and catfish.
The Lorax by Dr. Seuss
Follows a young Cuban girl in the 1930s as she strives to become a drummer despite being continually reminded that only boys play the drums and that there's never been a female drummer in Cuba. Includes note about Millo Castro Zaldarriaga, who inspired the story, and Anacaona, the all-girl dance band she formed with her sisters.
The Crayons Love Our Planet by Drew Daywalt
The hilarious Crayons are back in this celebration of our planet and their contributions to it - white ice caps, green trees, blue oceans and skies, brown soil, and even wheat!