Ep 7. I Lost My Tooth in Africa

LeVar Burton invites viewers to experience the thrill of a new culture in this season's Reading Rainbow episode, "I Lost My Tooth in Africa." The episode takes young viewers on a journey with Jade, a second-grade student who loses her tooth while on a trip to Zimbabwe with her family.

The episode opens with LeVar introducing Jade, a bright-eyed girl who is excited to share her adventure with viewers. Jade, who is African American, tells the audience of her excitement at being able to visit Africa for the first time and how she hopes to learn and experience all the continent has to offer.

Jade takes viewers on a tour of Zimbabwe, showing the customs, food, and music she has encountered during her trip. She introduces viewers to her new friend, Chipo, who is a Zimbabwean girl around the same age as Jade. Chipo shows Jade her school and teaches her about the importance of education in the African community.

Viewers follow Jade as she visits a village and learns about the traditional African art of basket-weaving. She is amazed at the intricate designs and enjoys trying it out herself. Jade then goes on a safari and witnesses the majestic animals of Africa, including elephants, zebras, and giraffes.

As the journey continues, Jade realizes that she has lost a tooth. She is worried that the tooth fairy won't be able to find her, as she is so far away from home. However, the children she meets are fascinated by her lost tooth and quickly gather around her to listen to her story.

Jade decides to write a letter to the tooth fairy, asking her to come to Zimbabwe to collect her tooth. LeVar pauses the show to engage young viewers in a discussion about how people from different parts of the world have different customs and how important it is to embrace cultural differences.

The episode ends with Jade getting a visit from the tooth fairy, who has traveled all the way from America to Zimbabwe to collect her tooth. Jade is ecstatic and, with the help of Chipo, shows the tooth fairy around the village and introduces her to her new friends.

"I Lost My Tooth in Africa" is an engaging and informative episode of Reading Rainbow that highlights the beauty and diversity of Africa. The show does an excellent job of teaching young viewers about cultural differences and encouraging them to embrace and appreciate the customs of others. With its captivating visuals and impressive storytelling, this episode provides an entertaining and educational viewing experience for children and adults alike.