Reading Rainbow on PBS – Children’s Show Review
Reading Rainbow is hosted by Levar Burton. He begins each show with a 3-5 minute opening which sets the theme of the day. These themes range from newspapers, to acting, even to the subject of eggs. One episode, about making a television show, took place on the set of Star Trek: The Next Generation, and showed some set secrets.
There have also been some serious topics, like death or homelessness, with appropriate books that children can relate to, as part of the program. During the opening, Levar either does a craft or visits a place connected with the subject. He presents the viewers with information, sometimes defining words used in his explanations. He is enthusiastic, without being overly excitable.
At the end Reading Rainbow’s opening segment, he introduces the book of the day, which is connected to the theme. Special guests read the books. These guests are usually celebrities, or creative artists. The authors are identified by name before the book is read. The celebrities do not take precedence over the book itself. Only the illustrations of the books appear on screen, although sometimes they are enhanced with computer animation and music. The reading takes roughly five minutes.
After the main book is read, the next segment of Reading Rainbow consists of more information related to the theme. On the show about eggs, author and artist Patricia Polacco demonstrated how to decorate eggs with wax. There were also clips of animals laying eggs, and eggs hatching. Another show about newspapers featured comic strip cartoonist, Ray Billingsley, telling how he came up with the character of Curtis. This segment included various children naming their favorite part of the newspaper. Levar always manages to tie the subject to books. This way, children can connect reading to the world around them.
The last segment is compiled of book recommendations. This is done entirely by kids. They talk about their favorite books, and attempt to get other kids interested enough to want to read them for themselves. Unlike the main book read on the show, the kids do appear on screen, as well as a few illustrations from each book.
At the end, Levar gives a quick closing to end the program.
Reading Rainbow combines education and fun. The books are read in a manner similar to story times done by parents or at the library. The other segments allow kids to see that reading is a part of life and books are not only enjoyable on their own, but also in how they connect to other areas of life. The use of children to recommend books also lets the children viewing at home hear about various books from their peers, instead of just from adults. The show isn’t as bright or energetic as some children’s shows. Instead it is a cozy time that children can share with parents. I can watch the show and not get bored.
Not every station airs the show on a regular Monday -Friday basis. You can check PBS’ website at http://www.pbs.org to see when it airs in your area.
