Ep 1. Ox Cart Man

Reading Rainbow is a beloved children's television show that promotes the love of reading and encourages children to explore the world around them. In season 2 episode 1, titled "Ox Cart Man," host LeVar Burton takes viewers on a journey through time to explore the daily life and routines of a family living in rural America in the 19th century.

The episode begins with Burton introducing viewers to a book titled "Ox Cart Man" by Donald Hall. He explains that the book tells the story of a family of farmers living in the New England countryside and their traditional way of life. Burton highlights that the story is based on an actual poem by the same name which was written in the 1800s.

As Burton reads the story, accompanied by beautiful illustrations by Barbara Cooney, viewers are taken on a journey through the seasons and the different chores and tasks that the family must complete throughout the year to prepare for the winter. From planting and harvesting crops, to shearing sheep and making wool, viewers get a glimpse into the hard work and dedication that goes into running a small farm.

Burton pauses throughout the story to ask questions and engage viewers in discussions about the different aspects of rural life that are highlighted in the story. For example, he asks viewers to think about how the farmers in the story used everything that they had, and how they had to be creative when resources were limited. He also asks viewers to think about the different roles that each member of the family played in keeping the farm running smoothly.

To add another dimension to the educational value of the show, Burton meets with experts who demonstrate how some of the tasks highlighted in the book were done. For example, he visits a sheep farm to show how wool is sheared off the sheep and then used to create clothing. He also visits a blacksmith to show how metal tools and implements were made by hand.

Throughout the episode, Burton emphasizes the importance of reading and how books can take us on journeys to places and times we have never been before. He encourages viewers to explore their own surroundings and to learn from the people and places around them. As the episode comes to a close, Burton reminds viewers that books are a way to spark our imaginations and to learn about the world in a fun and engaging way.

Overall, "Ox Cart Man" is a heartwarming and educational episode of Reading Rainbow that encourages children to think about history, the value of hard work, and the importance of utilizing our resources in a creative and sustainable way. Through engaging storytelling, stunning illustrations, and interactive discussions, the episode offers an enriching experience that is sure to inspire a love of reading and a curiosity about the world.