We filmed my book review for Reading Rainbow in the school library, and it was a BIG deal. The lights, the small camera crew, and eventually watching the episode on PBS. I remember feeling afraid that I would forget everything I rehearsed once the camera’s red light appeared. Everything went well though, and I did not get to meet LeVar Burton, but we are connected on Linkedin!
If you don’t remember the show, here’s the intro.
Why is this coming up now?
This memory came flooding back recently when I watched Butterflies in the Sky: The Story of Reading Rainbow, a Netflix documentary about the show. Highly recommended.
In retrospect, Reading Rainbow was a groundbreaking way to share stories with children and encourage them to read. The show emphasized inclusion, diversity, open-mindedness, and trying new things. The host LeVar Burton said ‘YES’ to every adventure and had a connection with his audience. They introduced new ideas to children and did it looking through children’s eyes. It served to educate, inspire, and empower children. In addition, Burton and the show’s crew encouraged children to read!
Book sales skyrocketed when television started to dominate the entertainment scene. Reading Rainbow made a TV show that was popular AND got children away from the screen. What a way to play to both sides.
Do you ever escape into a book?
I am one of those kids it helped. As a child, I was interested in learning and spent plenty of time at the library. I was a good student and well loved by most of my teachers, but I had a lot of struggles at home.
Reading provided me with an escape. When things were tough at home or I just needed time by myself, I could always depend on a book. This is still true.
As a reader, you dive into a story while getting to know characters. You care about what happens. You read new perspectives. You learn something. You get out of your head and enter a world where you can just watch the story unfold. Getting lost in a book is the best.
Share Your Thoughts in Our Community
Want to get lost with us for an hour?
Join us for the summer book club on Thursday, June 27 at (8-9pm EDT, 7-8pm CDT). We’re reading Listen for the Lie by Amy Tintera. Sign up here.
Want to help others get lost in your story?
Now is your chance to co-author a transformative book, Heal to Lead, alongside Hay House Author Jennifer Grace and yours truly. As a first-time author, participating in this collaboration will significantly enhance your credibility.
Plus, by sharing your story and insights in a professionally published book, you’ll establish yourself as an authority in your field. Submit your idea here by June 19!
Want to share?
Do you remember the first book you loved? Do you credit anyone or anything for your love of reading? I’d love to hear your thoughts!