I knew immediately I was going to thoroughly enjoy this book as I read Barbara Irwin's preface. Her warm remembrance of not just the show but of all those connected to it was evident. They were a natural team. Their recognition of what the show came to mean to so many and their gratitude for the chance to create something memorable added to the tone of the book. I was already past its target age when it premiered but as a by then teacher, I found it a delight and inspiration, so I was delighted to find this book. It also gives us an episode guide and book list as well as interviews and notes.
I don't normally share blurbs in my reviews, after all, they're readily available elsewhere, but thought this paragraph of the publisher's blurb spoke volumes:
"Creating Reading Rainbow explores the many intriguing and homespun stories that, when woven together, reveal how this groundbreaking and iconic television series came to be. What led to the series being called “Reading Rainbow”? How did the road to Reading Rainbow wind its way through Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood? How did a public television station in Buffalo spearhead a movement in education and spark the passion for reading in millions of children? And, what does lasagna have to do with it?"
Needless to say, I'm not going to deprive you of the fun of finding out the answers to these intriguing questions on your own but will say you'll learn about the many ups and downs of the creation and production of "Reading Rainbow" as you read. As a fan of host Levar Burton, though, I found the story behind his joining to team interesting. He was still riding high on the success of his role in "Roots" and, quite frankly, if nothing else, they probably assumed they're never be able to afford him given that their budge was next to nothing. Yet, Burton, the son of an English teacher who loved to read himself, was determined to do something to make a difference in the world. He came aboard and they had their face.
Needless to say, the producers faced many highs and lows. There were things that worked and, of course, things that didn't. You'll see how they learned from mistakes, however, turning most into positives. I mean, who knew a love of reading was going to lead the on camera team to, say, stand on the edge of a volcano threatening to erupt or that Burton would learn to fly a plane and scuba dive as a result of the show's direction? All that and much, much more. While Levar Burton was obviously the focus, the face of the show, learning the behind the scenes activity and planning was fascinating. More impressive, it was mostly done on a low budget. Their stories ring with warmth. They seem to have been delighted to simply be there and it shows. They bonded in their common goal, to help make reading and learning about our world accessible and, yes, fun. They became a family. They made a difference. Thanks #NetGalley and #GlobePequot - #NorthCountryBooks for sharing this warm-hearted memory with me. I've always been a reader, so I loved the show and highly recommend this book.
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