Bringing Stories to Life at SXSW EDU
Each year, SXSW EDU brings together a community of educators, innovators and storytellers who are passionate about helping students learn and grow.
This year in Austin, TX, Epic had the opportunity to connect with that community in a meaningful way, sharing how online books, read-alouds and engaging digital experiences can help more kids discover the joy of reading.
And throughout the event, one idea kept coming up again and again: stories stick with us. The ones we read as kids. The ones we share in classrooms. The ones that spark something new.
A Moment of Creativity: Cat Ninja Comes to Life!
One of the highlights of the week was welcoming Cat Ninja illustrator Chad Thomas to the Epic booth.
Chad met fans and signed print copies of Cat Ninja. A little later, he hosted a live drawing session, where attendees learned how to sketch Cat Ninja step by step.
Seeing educators, students and fans gather around to draw, ask questions and celebrate storytelling was a powerful reminder of what makes Epic Originals so special! Behind every story kids love is a creator who brings it to life.
Connecting Through Reading
Throughout SXSW EDU, the conversations kept circling back to reading.
We heard from teachers using Epic in their classrooms to keep students engaged with books online and interactive tools. Parents shared how read-alouds have become part of their everyday routines at home. School leaders talked through ways to expand access so more students can discover books that actually excite them. And nonprofit partners spoke about the role digital libraries can play in supporting literacy across entire communities.
But what stood out most were the personal moments.
A college student smiled while telling us she used Epic when she was younger. An educator described how her students light up when they find a story they can’t put down, whether it’s a graphic novel or a favorite series.
It was a simple but powerful reminder: when kids find books they love, reading becomes something they choose. Not something they have to do.
Supporting the Next Generation of Readers and Educators
We were especially inspired by the number of future educators who stopped by the booth.
Preservice teachers are entering classrooms at a pivotal moment and many are looking for ways to bring engaging, accessible reading experiences to their students from day one.
With access to online books, read-alouds and a wide range of content including Epic Originals, they’re finding new ways to meet students where they are and help them build confidence as readers.
Celebrating Literacy Legends
At the heart of everything we do are the educators who bring reading to life for their students.
We call them Literacy Legends.
They are the teachers, librarians and caregivers who help kids discover stories, build confidence and develop a lifelong love of reading, often in ways that go unseen.
SXSW EDU was a chance to celebrate that work, connect with partners and be reminded of the real impact reading can have on a child’s life.
We’re grateful to everyone who stopped by, joined a drawing session or shared their story with us!
Start Reading on Epic Today!
Want to explore the stories kids are excited about?
Epic offers access to 40,000+ online books, engaging read-alouds and exclusive Epic Originals designed to spark curiosity and build a love of reading.
It’s always free for educators to use in the classroom, and families can enjoy a 7-day free trial to start exploring. Try it today!
Frequently Asked Questions
▶ What is SXSW EDU, and why does Epic participate?
SXSW EDU is a gathering of educators, creators and innovators who care deeply about how kids learn. Epic joins to connect with that community, share ideas and explore new ways to help more children discover books they love.
▶ What did Epic showcase at SXSW EDU?
Epic highlighted its digital library, including online books, read-alouds and Epic Originals. The focus was on how engaging, accessible reading experiences can help kids build confidence and enjoy reading more.
▶ How does Epic support different reading levels and interests?
Epic offers a wide range of content—from picture books and graphic novels to nonfiction and chapter books, along with read-aloud options. This helps meet kids where they are and supports them as they grow.
▶ How can I try Epic?
Sign up for Epic to begin exploring our library of thousands of online books, Read-To-Me books and Epic Originals. Families get a 7-day free trial, and it’s always free for educators to use in the classroom. Get started at getepic.com.
