

Circle Round
WBUR
Created and produced by parents of young children, WBUR's Circle Round adapts carefully-selected folktales from around the world into sound- and music-rich radio plays for kids ages 3-103. Each 15 to 25-minute episode explores important issues like kindness, persistence and generosity. And each episode ends with an activity that inspires a deeper conversation between children and grown-ups.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 16, 2025 • 27min
Python’s Drum | Ep. 309
Gabe Kunda (Marvel Rivals, Apex Legends) and Natasha Rothwell (The White Lotus, Insecure) co-star in a Ugandan legend about friendship, rivalry, and making music.
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Dec 9, 2025 • 25min
Birbal's Barrels | Ep. 308
Ravi V. Patel (Animal Control, LEGO Masters Jr.) headlines this Indian tale about distinguishing need from greed with help from grain, gold, and a barrel of lies.
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Dec 2, 2025 • 21min
The Underestimated Beetle | Ep. 307
Recorded live in Charlotte, NC, this Brazilian tale pits a round-rumped, fleet-footed critter against a teeny-tiny insect in a surprisingly high-flying race.
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Nov 25, 2025 • 20min
A Sticky Situation | Ep. 306
Joining the live performance, Frank Dominguez, Caroline Lee, and Phil Vavra bring the characters of Rayo, Wren, and the crying pine tree to life. They explore themes of kindness and greed through a charming Japanese legend. Rayo’s gentle nature contrasts sharply with Wren's envy, leading to a delightful twist of poetic justice. The crying pine tree rewards Rayo for his compassion, while Wren learns a sticky lesson about the consequences of greed. Listeners are encouraged to create their own four-line poems, adding a creative touch to the tale.

Nov 18, 2025 • 34min
How the Turkey Got Its Gobble | Ep. 305 (A Podcast Turducken with Terrestrials and Wow in the World)
Join Guy Raz, public-radio host and co-creator of Wow in the World, Mindy Thomas, his co-host known for her energetic storytelling, and Lulu Miller, the insightful host of Radiolab's Terrestrials. They dive into the adventures of a runaway chicken named Inga and explore her incredible journey home. The conversation shifts to the mystery of the 'bio-duck' sound, linking it to Arctic minke whales. Lastly, a Cherokee legend offers a whimsical tale of how the turkey discovered its iconic gobble, featuring unexpected friendships and feather trades.

7 snips
Nov 11, 2025 • 22min
Little Peacock’s Plumage | Ep. 304
Dive into a whimsical Chinese legend where a kind bird embarks on a journey of generosity. Little Peacock feels overshadowed by others but discovers true meaning in selflessness. From gifting feathers to a hard-working farmer to helping a sick girl experience the joy of fireworks, his acts of kindness shine brighter than mere appearances. Ultimately, the Peacock Fairy rewards his heart over his looks, creating a magical spectacle that uplifts a village. Tune in for a tale that warms the heart!

Nov 4, 2025 • 27min
Whatever You Like | Ep. 303
Join Mary Faber, a talented actor and singer, Lamont Price, a hilarious comedian, and Josh Gondelman, a witty writer, in a captivating live performance. They delve into the importance of words, showcasing a clever tug-of-war filled with playful exchanges. The story revolves around two siblings facing challenges, a tricky sea captain, and a courtroom showdown that leads to a surprising ruling. With a blend of humor and heart, the cast brings folklore to life, illustrating how words can have weight beyond their surface.

Oct 28, 2025 • 28min
The Sunlight Tree | Ep. 302
In this lively tale, Lars, a cheeky starling, adds comic flair as he narrates a magical story about kindness and resilience. With a glowing sunlight tree at the center, two sisters, Selma and Svea, find joy despite the greedy Wilhelm's attempts to claim it. As the tree mysteriously withers at his mansion, a brighter tree springs up on the hill, leading to a dramatic showdown where trees take flight to confront greed. This whimsical tale unfolds with humor and heart, reminding us of the power of community and caring.

12 snips
Oct 21, 2025 • 26min
The Tree of Love | Ep. 301
A powerful Greek legend unfolds as a couple's boundless love faces challenges from a skeptical village. When they offer shelter to mysterious travelers, their kindness reveals divine connections. Transformations occur as the gods, testing hospitality, grant the couple a wish to never be parted. In a heartwarming twist, they become intertwined trees, symbolizing eternal togetherness. Listeners are invited to create their own 'Tree of Love' to honor cherished relationships. This tale beautifully intertwines love, kindness, and magical transformations.

Oct 14, 2025 • 26min
The Stone Horse | Ep. 300
Recorded live in Parker, CO, this Chinese adventure story shows how kindness and hard work can breathe new life into anything... including stone!
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