Ep 1. My Shadow

Reading Rainbow, Vol. 1 Season 8 Episode 1 - My Shadow

In this captivating episode of Reading Rainbow, host LeVar Burton takes young viewers on a journey into the magical world of shadows. Exploring the theme of shadows through various thought-provoking books, "My Shadow" sparks imagination and encourages children to discover the wonders hidden within their own shadows.

The episode begins with LeVar welcoming viewers to the enchanting world of Reading Rainbow. He introduces the concept of shadows, explaining that they are formed when an object blocks light. LeVar highlights how shadows can be found everywhere, from the sun casting shadows on the ground to the shadows we create with our bodies.

To kick off the exploration of shadows, LeVar presents the book "My Shadow" by Robert Louis Stevenson. This classic poem-turned-picture book follows a young child as they embark on a whimsical adventure with their own shadow. LeVar reads the poem aloud, allowing the vivid pictures to come to life and take viewers on a shadow-filled journey.

Next, LeVar ventures into the realm of dance and shadows with a visit to a ballet studio. There, young dancers demonstrate how they use their bodies to create beautiful shadow shapes and movements. With graceful leaps and fluid motions, the young dancers captivate viewers, inspiring them to harness the power of their own bodies and imaginations to bring shadows to life.

LeVar then introduces viewers to an intriguing poetry book titled "Shadow Wash" by Boyd Pelley. This imaginative collection of poems explores the concept of shadows in a creative and unique way, encouraging children to think outside the box as they examine the world around them. Through rhythmic verses and vivid imagery, "Shadow Wash" invites viewers to see shadows in an entirely new light.

Continuing the exploration of shadows, LeVar delves into the pages of another remarkable book titled "So, What's It Like to Be a Cat?" by Karla Kuskin. This poetic tale invites readers to imagine what it might be like to see the world from a cat's perspective, including the intriguing possibilities that shadows hold for our feline friends. Through playful illustrations and whimsical verses, the book sparks curiosity and encourages viewers to consider the unique experiences of other creatures.

In a delightful change of pace, LeVar invites an acclaimed shadow puppeteer to his theater. Utilizing nothing more than her hands, a light source, and a white screen, the puppeteer mesmerizes viewers with her shadow puppetry skills. As she tells a captivating story through the art of shadow play, viewers are transported into a world filled with imagination and wonder.

To conclude the episode, LeVar encourages viewers to embark on their own shadow adventure. With a call-to-action, he invites children to go outside and discover the amazing shapes and forms their shadows can make. Whether it's capturing the elongated shadow of a tree or using their bodies to mimic various animals, children are reminded that shadows hold endless possibilities for exploration and creativity.

As the episode draws to a close, LeVar reminds viewers of the magic that can be found within the pages of a book. By diving into the world of shadows through captivating stories, poems, and creative forms of expression, children can unlock their imaginations and engage with the world around them in a whole new way.

Through "My Shadow," Reading Rainbow effortlessly weaves together captivating storytelling, imaginative exploration, and the beauty of shadows. With engaging books and interactive experiences, this episode inspires young minds to appreciate the everyday wonders that shadows hold and encourages them to see their own shadows as gateways to adventurous tales yet to be told.