SAG Award®-Winning Actress Anna Sawai Brings a Bold New Voice to Storyline Online® with ‘The Rooster Who Would Not Be Quiet!’

Anna Sawai reads for the SAG-AFTRA Foundation’s children’s literacy program Storyline Online® / Photo courtesy of the SAG-AFTRA Foundation

Just in time for National Rooster Day, the SAG-AFTRA Foundation’s Emmy Award®-winning children’s literacy program, Storyline Online®, proudly presents its latest read-aloud: The Rooster Who Would Not Be Quiet! written by Carmen Agra Deedy, illustrated by Eugene Yelchin, published by Scholastic Press, and read by SAG Award®-winning actress Anna Sawai (Shōgun, Pachinko).

In this vibrant and timely tale, a brave little rooster stands up to a tyrannical mayor who has banned all singing in the once-musical village of La Paz. Through bold illustrations and rhythmic storytelling, The Rooster Who Would Not Be Quiet! celebrates the power of speaking (and singing) out, even in the face of oppression. Anna Sawai brings warmth, courage, and conviction to the story, making it an inspiring experience for children and families everywhere.

“It’s a story about courage, community and using your voice,” says Sawai. “And that’s something every child should feel empowered to do.”

Courtney B. Vance, Chairman of the Board of the SAG-AFTRA Foundation, shared, “We chose this book because it speaks to one of the most important messages we can share with young people today: that their voice matters. Anna Sawai brings grace, strength, and passion to this story, and we’re proud to have her join our family of readers who use storytelling to uplift and empower the next generation.”

Available for free worldwide at storylineonline.net, The Rooster Who Would Not Be Quiet! is accompanied by a supplemental teacher’s guide that aligns with Common Core Standards, enhancing classroom and at-home learning.

In addition to Anna Sawai, Storyline Online features over 95 acclaimed actors reading beloved children’s books aloud, including Angela Bassett, Viola Davis, Rami Malek, Chris Pine, Meryl Streep, Oprah Winfrey, Michelle Yeoh and many more.

To watch The Rooster Who Would Not Be Quiet! and all of Storyline Online’s read-alouds, visit storylineonline.net. Keep up with new videos by subscribing to Storyline Online on YouTube and following Storyline Online on Instagram, X and Facebook.

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