A Bibliophile’s Nostalgia: Reading Rainbow
Hello everyone! Back when I started this blog I wrote a post about Children’s Literacy shows that I watched as a child. I thought it would be fun (who knows,I might make this into a regular series) to revisit some things that give me all the nostalgia feels. So today, I’ll be talking about the literary show that defined my childhood, Reading Rainbow.
In my childhood, I spent many summers at my Grandma’s house who didn’t have cable at all. I used to grumble under my breath that I couldn’t watch my favorite stations, but over time I grew to love it. One of the stations I would watch all the time was PBS and I enjoyed their children’s programming. One show that would change everything was Reading Rainbow.
From the groovy synths and cool video montage of the opening theme song I was instantly mesmerized. As I child I was already an avid reader, but to discover a show about reading? I was absolutely hooked!
Hosted by LeVar Burton for more than 20 years the show taught reading skills, habits, and attitudes. Each episode was a new journey with celebrity guest readers and “Kid on the Street” book recommendations. There was so much to learn with each episode and it felt like you were going on an adventure.
Even though the “Rainbow” is in more of digital format for kids now, I’m glad that the program lives on in new ways. As well as getting it’s pop culture resurgence, Burton hosts an amazing podcast where he reads short stories. He has such a soothing voice for reading stories aloud.
When I think back to watching that show as a starry-eyed child, I can see how it has helped shape me into the reader I am today. Whenever I think of the theme’s melody I can instantly sing the lyrics by heart and the joy of discovering new books to read.
I got to see Burton in person back in 2017 at a local comic convention and it blew my mind. I wasn’t able to get to take a photo with him or autograph (the day was hectic and the meet & greet times messed with my schedule) but attending his panel was the best. He was laid back, relaxed, and it was interesting to learn about his reflections about his time on the show and others (Star Trek, Roots).
Reading Rainbow will always find a place in my bibliophile heart. Even as it adult it reminds me to always seek out stories and most importantly, to never stop reading.
Did you watch Reading Rainbow growing up? Did the show leave an impact on you? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.
Awwww, I loved this show as a kid. We weren’t allowed to watch much TV, but when Reading Rainbow was on I absolutely loved watching it. LeVar Burton is such a treasure.
I agree! This show will always hold a special place in my heart.