In a heartwarming revival that celebrates both nostalgia and progress, Reading Rainbow is officially back! This time, it’s led by librarian and literacy advocate Mychal Threets. The beloved show, which inspired generations of young readers since its debut in 1983, returns with a renewed mission: to foster a love of reading while amplifying diverse voices in children’s media.
Threets, known for his infectious enthusiasm for books and his viral “library joy” TikToks, is a perfect fit for the modern Reading Rainbow. His authentic passion for literacy and mental health makes him a perfect role model for young readers everywhere. However, his path to becoming Reading Rainbow’s new host was not easy.
Prior to becoming host, Threets was a beloved creator on TikTok (still is!). He spoke fondly of libraries and the joy of reading. Threets also took to the platform to address some of his own mental health struggles and encouraged others who struggle with the same issues to speak out and get help. Some people saw this as a way to pick apart Threets’ content and character. While Mychal’s followers defended him against the backlash, he eventually decided to resign from his job as a librarian to take care of his mental health.
This is why representation matters; especially in spaces that shape how children see themselves and others. We live in a society where men, especially black men, are not allowed to be vulnerable in any manner; and if they are, then there will always be negative repercussions that follow. Having such a kind and vulnerable black man at the helm of a historically influential show, says that storytelling belongs to everyone, and that books are a place where every voice deserves to be heard.
This revival isn’t just a reboot, it’s a reminder of why stories matter. In an age of screens and short attention spans, Reading Rainbow with Mychal Threets brings back the magic of reading while reflecting the world as it truly is: diverse, joyful, and full of possibility.
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