Friday, November 6, 2026

Book Nook - Jessica Chastain Reads Henry and the Buccaneer Bunnies for SAG-AFTRA Foundation’s Emmy-Winning Storyline Online®

 The SAG-AFTRA Foundation’s Emmy-winning children’s literacy program Storyline Online® released a new read-aloud video today featuring Academy Award-winning actress Jessica Chastain (Heartland, Other Mommy, The Eyes of Tammy Faye, Interstellar) reading Henry and the Buccaneer Bunnies, a delightful pirate adventure celebrating the power of books, imagination and the joy of reading.

Written by Carolyn Crimi, illustrated by John Manders and published by Candlewick Press, Henry and the Buccaneer Bunnies follows a young rabbit who would rather read books than live the swashbuckling life of his pirate father, Barnacle Black Ear. While the other buccaneer bunnies spend their days sailing the high seas and searching for treasure, Henry prefers to bury his nose in a good book. But when a dangerous storm threatens the pirate crew, Henry discovers that the knowledge he has gained from reading may be their greatest treasure of all.

Through Chastain’s engaging performance and the book’s vibrant illustrations brought to life, the new read-aloud invites young viewers on a high-seas adventure while celebrating curiosity, individuality and the many ways books can help us navigate the world.

Reflecting on the story’s message and her own love of books, Chastain encourages young viewers to embrace their curiosity and individuality. “They can help us discover what we're interested in, teach us things we never knew and sometimes even help us discover who we really are. So keep reading and keep being curious. Keep being you because you're wonderful,” said Chastain.

“Jessica Chastain is not only an extraordinary actress and storyteller, but also a dear friend and dedicated supporter of the SAG-AFTRA Foundation,” said Courtney B. Vance, President and Chairman of the Board of the SAG-AFTRA Foundation. “As a valued member of our Actors’ Council, she has been a wonderful champion of our mission, and we are especially grateful that she has generously volunteered her time and talent to bring this delightful story to life. Henry and the Buccaneer Bunnies is a wonderful reminder that reading opens doors to knowledge, discovery and endless possibilities. We hope Jessica’s performance inspires children everywhere to discover the magic of books.”

Henry and the Buccaneer Bunnies is the 105th read-aloud in Storyline Online’s acclaimed library, which includes performances by Angela Bassett, Kathy Bates, Adam Brody, Bryan Cranston, Viola Davis, John Lithgow, Rami Malek, Gary Oldman, Chris Pine, Meryl Streep, Oprah Winfrey, Kate Winslet, Michelle Yeoh and many more.

As Storyline Online prepares to celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2027, the program remains committed to making quality children’s literature accessible to young audiences everywhere. Produced by the nonprofit SAG-AFTRA Foundation, the series features celebrated actors reading beloved children’s books alongside creatively produced illustrations and is available free, 24/7. Each video is accompanied by supplemental educational resources designed to strengthen reading comprehension, vocabulary and critical thinking skills.

To watch Jessica Chastain’s reading of Henry and the Buccaneer Bunnies and explore the full library of free videos, visit StorylineOnline.net. Keep up with new releases by subscribing to Storyline Online on YouTube and following Storyline Online on Instagram, X and Facebook.

Jessica Chastain reads for the SAG-AFTRA Foundation’s children’s literacy program Storyline Online / Photo courtesy of the SAG-AFTRA Foundation



Storyline Online is made possible through gifts, grants and sponsorships. For more information about becoming a Storyline Online sponsor, please email sponsorship@sagaftra.foundation.

ABOUT STORYLINE ONLINE®
An Emmy-winning program of the nonprofit SAG-AFTRA Foundation, Storyline Online® streams 105 videos at no cost to children, parents and educators worldwide. The program is endorsed by the American Federation of Teachers and the American Library Association, and has been named one of the best websites by the American Association of School Librarians. In addition to the website, Storyline Online offers a free app for iPhone devices. For more information, visit StorylineOnline.net.

CONNECT WITH STORYLINE ONLINE
Instagram: @storylineonline
X: @storylineonline
Facebook: facebook.com/storylineonline
YouTube: youtube.com/storylineonline
Hashtag: #StorylineOnline

ABOUT THE SAG-AFTRA FOUNDATION
The SAG-AFTRA Foundation provides SAG-AFTRA members with vital assistance and educational opportunities. Through our extensive public-facing programs, the Foundation delivers insights and experiences that inform, enrich and inspire audiences around the world. The Foundation relies on support from gifts, grants and sponsorships to maintain its free programs. For more information, visit sagaftra.foundation.

CONNECT WITH THE SAG-AFTRA FOUNDATION
Instagram: @sagaftrafound
TikTok: @sagaftrafound
X: @sagaftrafound
Facebook: facebook.com/sagaftrafoundation
YouTube: youtube.com/sagaftrafoundation

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