Molly of Denali
By Common Sense Media,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Authentic, diverse, and fun prequel to TV series.
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What’s It About?
In MOLLY OF DENALI, Molly Mabray solves mysteries with her friends -- like a missing necklace on a train, or a stolen birthday cake -- all while helping her family run a trading post in Alaska. Through family rivalries, big competition, chores, and learning to work under pressure, Molly learns how to be a good friend and navigate hard situations. But she doesn't do it alone. A cast of supportive friends and family face adventures armed with wisdom passed down through the ages, from their Alaska Native heritage. The podcast teaches about being a good sport and learning to be organized, and celebrates multiple heritages in a family as well as a community. Molly solves mysteries over multiple episodes, and the fictional Alaskan town of Qyah, near Denali, grows richer and more textured as the episodes go on. Episodes each season build upon one another, so it's good to start from the first episode in a season to get context.
Is It Any Good?
A beautiful example of authentic diversity and inclusion in kids' media, this show is a fun, playful, and engaging look into Alaska Native culture and tradition. With care put into every production detail of Molly of Denali -- from the all-Indigenous cast voicing Indigenous characters to the all-too-catchy theme song with music from Gwich'in fiddler Brennan Firth and vocals by members of the Yupik Alaska Native band Pamyua -- this immersive audio experience doesn't miss a beat.
The major theme of teamwork running through each episode helps kids understand what it means to work together and define their "village" to feel supported and in turn support others. For fans of the TV series, this is sure to be a great screen-free complement to the show. Even adults will find themselves listening to one more episode.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the different languages and cultures within Molly of Denali. What languages do you speak at home? What stories have been passed down in your family?
How do the characters show what it means to be a good friend? What does it mean to be a good friend to you? How do you think you're a good friend to others?
Teamwork is a major theme throughout the show. Based on how the characters work together, what do you think the saying "it takes a village" means? Who do you consider part of your "village"? How do you all work to support one another?
How do the characters in the show model perseverance and compassion? Why are these important character strengths?
Podcast Details
- Release date: May 30, 2019
- Genre: Kids & Family
- Average Run Time: 11 minutes
- Website: https://pbskids.org/molly/podcast
- Host: N/A
- Production Companies and Networks: GBH Kids , Gen-Z Media , PBS Kids , PRX
- Pricing structure: Free
- Topics: Adventures , Great Girl Role Models
- Character Strengths: Compassion , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Award: Common Sense Selection
- Last updated: June 12, 2023
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