Young readers can once again indulge in the magic of storytelling! “Reading Rainbow” is making a comeback! Originally hosted by LeVar Burton, this beloved PBS show inspired countless children to fall in love with reading. Now, nearly 20 years after it ended, Mychal Threets, a modern librarian and literacy champion, is ready to lead the way.
Threets, who gained fame on social media for sharing engaging library moments and discussing mental health, is bringing a fresh perspective to the revived show. He was a library supervisor in California and has built a large following online. His approach is relatable and impactful, making books accessible to everyone.
“Reading Rainbow” first launched in 1983, aiming to spark joy in reading, especially during summer breaks. It won prestigious awards like the Peabody Award and multiple Daytime Emmy Awards. After a successful 21 seasons and 155 episodes, it concluded in 2006.
The announcement of the show’s resurgence came through social media, generating excitement among fans. Threets remarked on Instagram, “Take a look, it’s in a book!” The new episodes promise to motivate kids with not just books, but also exciting projects and celebrity guest appearances from stars like Ebon Moss-Bachrach and dancers from “Dancing with the Stars.”
In a recent interview, Threets emphasized the transformative power of books. He shared how reading has been a source of comfort during tough times, saying, “Books are that constant friend in the battle with your own mind.” He credits his passion for literature to Burton, highlighting how impactful the original show was in creating a sense of belonging within the world of books.
The new episodes will air every Saturday in October at 10 a.m. ET on KidZuko, a children’s YouTube channel. You can also catch them on the “Reading Rainbow” website.
This revival comes at a time when reading for pleasure can sometimes take a backseat in our digital age. A recent survey from the National Endowment for the Arts found that fewer Americans are reading for fun compared to a decade ago. This makes the return of “Reading Rainbow” even more essential in encouraging the next generation to explore the joy of reading.
Threets’ journey from a library supervisor to a national figure demonstrates how the love of books can inspire new leaders in literacy. The renewed “Reading Rainbow” is not just about the stories; it’s about fostering a love for reading that can last a lifetime.
For more on “Reading Rainbow,” you can visit ReadingRainbow.org.
