The year was 1983. The hair was big, the leg warmers were bright, and the music was cheesy. Amidst all this a little show by the name of Reading Rainbow began to air on PBS. Hosted by LeVar Burton, the show was special because it encouraged kids to read for pleasure, rather than out of obligation. From the moment the memorable theme song kicked off one felt like they were entering another world, much like the feeling of losing oneself in a favorite book. This was a world where words and illustrations sprung to life, where there were no limits on how far one's imagination could go, and where children ruled.
As the eighties have given way to the nineties and then to the new millennium, there has been a tangible shift in the way literacy is looked at. Today the focus is more on the mechanics of teaching children how to read rather than encouraging their innate love for a good book. Sadly, due to this changed educational climate and complications with funding, it was announced last week that Reading Rainbow is no more. Though the last episode aired on Friday, August 28th, the lasting impression this show had on its audience is undeniable, as evidenced by the outpouring of support for this underrated gem since the announcement. Say the name LeVar Burton to any child of the eighties and there is a very good chance they will think not of his work on Roots and Star Trek, but of this:
On a personal note, I was 2 when this show began and my voracious love for reading from such a young age is no doubt due at least a little to the wonder of Reading Rainbow and the good fortune I had in being able to watch it throughout my childhood. Thanks LeVar and company! Your presence will be missed.
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