Ep 4. The Wall

Reading Rainbow, Vol. 1 season 6 episode 4, titled "The Wall," offers an enriching literary adventure for young viewers. Hosted by the charismatic LeVar Burton, this beloved educational series aims to foster a love of reading among children.

In this episode, LeVar takes the audience on an exciting exploration of the power and significance of walls, both literal and metaphorical. The episode begins with LeVar standing beside a towering brick wall, prompting curious minds to ponder the reason behind its construction. Through carefully selected books and engaging activities, "The Wall" delves into the various roles walls play in our lives.

To kick off the episode, LeVar recommends the book "The Wall" by Eve Bunting, beautifully illustrated by Ronald Himler. This heartwarming tale highlights the experiences of a young boy who visits the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. The story evokes a powerful sense of remembrance and the emotional impact of war, teaching children the importance of honoring those who have served.

Moving on, LeVar introduces the audience to a fascinating non-fiction book titled "The Great Wall of China" by Elizabeth Mann, illustrated by Alan Witschonke. Through vivid illustrations and informative text, young readers are transported to ancient China, discovering the incredible history and symbolism behind this remarkable structure. LeVar also offers insights into the purpose behind the Great Wall of China, encouraging children to think critically about the necessity and implications of building such monumental walls.

LeVar's next selection, "The Wall: Growing Up Behind the Iron Curtain" by Peter Sís, reveals a personal story set during the Cold War. Through captivating illustrations and a heartfelt narrative, children gain a glimpse into the daily life and emotions of a young boy living behind the Iron Curtain. This thought-provoking book imparts lessons of resilience, freedom, and hope, which instigate discussions about overcoming barriers and the importance of empathy.

Continuing his exploration of walls, LeVar includes the picture book "You and Me and Home Sweet Home" by George Ella Lyon, illustrated by Stephanie Anderson. This touching story centers around a young girl named Sally Jane who lives in a sheet-and-paneled house. As Sally Jane paints bright colors throughout her home, she transforms the walls into a vibrant expression of her creativity and zest for life. This poignant book showcases how walls can embody personal identity and imagination, inspiring children to express themselves freely.

"The Wall" also takes viewers on a virtual field trip to meet a potter named Ricardo Romero, who shares his craft and passion for creating beautiful art out of clay. Through Ricardo's demonstration, LeVar illustrates how pottery was historically used to create walls and vessels for practical and artistic purposes. This segment encourages children to appreciate the skill and artistry involved in working with clay, while also emphasizing the importance of craftsmanship.

In addition to the books and the field trip, "The Wall" incorporates an interactive segment that encourages children to discover their own creativity. LeVar introduces a fun activity called "Walls of Dreams," where young viewers are given the chance to express their aspirations and hopes on a cardboard wall. This creative exercise fosters imagination and self-reflection, empowering children to envision a future full of possibilities.

As always, "The Wall" concludes with a segment called "Kids' Reviews," where children from various backgrounds enthusiastically recommend their favorite books. This segment aims to foster a sense of community and encourage children to share their love for reading, helping them discover new titles and authors along the way.

With its thoughtful selection of books, engaging activities, and interactive segments, "The Wall" episode of Reading Rainbow captivates young viewers, instilling a deeper appreciation for the importance of walls in our world. By exploring different perspectives, encouraging empathy, and sparking creativity, LeVar Burton creates an enriching educational experience that nurtures young minds and promotes a lifelong love of reading. So, get ready to dive into the magic of "The Wall" and embark on a captivating journey into the power of literature!