Ep 25. Boxes For Katje

In the season 1 episode 25 of Reading Rainbow, titled "Boxes For Katje," host LeVar Burton takes viewers on a journey exploring the theme of generosity and kindness in the aftermath of war.

The episode begins with LeVar standing outside an old-fashioned post office. He introduces the show by telling viewers that they will be exploring the true meaning of giving. He shares that most of the time, giving is not about what we have, but about what we want to share with others.

After this brief introduction, LeVar takes viewers on a virtual trip to Holland. He explains that Holland is famous for its colorful tulips and windmills, but the country has also experienced the devastation of war. During World War II, bombs destroyed many buildings, homes, and schools in Holland.

As they explore the country, LeVar introduces viewers to a girl named Katje, who lives in the city of Rotterdam. Katje explains that after the war, there was a shortage of basic necessities like food, clothing, and shelter. She recalls how grateful she was when an American soldier gave her a pack of gum, something she had never tasted before.

LeVar then dives into a children's book titled "Boxes for Katje" by Candace Fleming. The book tells the story of how a girl named Katje receives a box of food and clothing from a town in America after World War II. The box she receives contains items like cheese, socks, chocolate, and other things that Katje had never tasted or seen before.

Throughout the episode, LeVar reads excerpts from the book and explains how the act of kindness from a group of good-hearted strangers in the United States transforms Katje's life. The viewers follow along as Katje exchanges letters with the people in America, expressing her gratitude for their generosity.

As the episode progresses, LeVar explains how people around the world have been helping each other for hundreds of years, sometimes through simple acts of kindness like giving a piece of gum, a smile, or a helping hand.

LeVar highlights how small acts of kindness can have a ripple effect, inspiring others to pay it forward. He encourages viewers to make a difference in their communities, just like the people in America who sent boxes to Katje. He reminds viewers that giving does not have to be about material possessions but could be as simple as offering to help a neighbor or listening to someone who needs a friend.

The episode ends with LeVar, who is now back at the post office, reiterating the importance of generosity and sharing. He reminds viewers that when we give, we not only make a difference in the lives of others but also in our own lives, as it brings a sense of joy and fulfillment.

"Boxes for Katje" is an emotional and heartwarming episode that emphasizes the importance of generosity, kindness, and compassion towards others, especially during tough times. Through this episode, viewers learn that a small act of kindness can make a huge impact on someone's life. It is an excellent reminder of the power of human connections and the importance of being kind to one another.