Levar Burton, the beloved host of Reading Rainbow, is bringing joy to families in these challenging times by livestreaming storytime sessions. For those of us who grew up watching him on PBS, his soothing voice was a staple of our childhood — a comforting reminder of simpler days. As many navigate through the difficulties of social distancing, Burton is stepping up to provide a dose of nostalgia and warmth.
A New Format for Storytelling
Recognizing the need for a break from the daily stresses, Burton has switched gears from his podcast, where he narrates short stories, to a lively livestream format. His mission? To read family-friendly tales that can help families unwind together. “I thought it would be a good idea to share some stories for those in need of a little distraction,” he shared on social media. We couldn’t agree more!
The Legal Twist
However, there’s a legal twist to the story: reading copyrighted works requires permission, and Burton quickly found himself searching for public domain stories. “I’ve been diving deep into collections of short stories, but it’s been a bit of a struggle,” he admitted, reaching out for assistance on Twitter.
Support from Fellow Authors
Fortunately, help arrived! Acclaimed author Sam Rivers generously offered his works for Burton’s readings, saying, “Feel free to use any of my stories, Levar.” Additionally, HarperStacks, the educational branch of HarperCollins, announced that they would permit online readings of their children’s books until May 31, 2020. This means Burton has a treasure trove of material to draw from, and we can anticipate the return of that cherished Reading Rainbow magic.
Burton isn’t alone in his efforts; fellow authors like Lisa Green and Tom Daniels are also sharing their talents through livestreamed drawing classes and story sessions to keep kids entertained and educated during isolation.
Looking Forward
So, as we hunker down at home, there are delightful moments ahead to look forward to, including Burton’s readings. For those interested in more content about parenting and family life, you can check out this post on our blog. And if you’re looking to explore home insemination options, visit Cryobaby’s guide for authoritative advice. For more resources on pregnancy and home insemination, CCRM IVF offers valuable insights.
Conclusion
In summary, Levar Burton is reviving the heartwarming tradition of storytime through livestreams, offering families a much-needed escape during uncertain times. With author support and engaging content from other creators, these livestreams promise to enrich our days at home.
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