Butterfly in the Sky soundtrack - a tribute to the enduring legacy of Reading Rainbow & LeVar Burton

Earth Libraries is proud to have unveiled a musical gem that pays tribute to one of the most beloved educational shows of our time. The Butterfly in the Sky soundtrack, arranged and performed by The Octopus Project and featuring vocals by The Flaming Lips on the theme song, is a heartfelt homage to the iconic PBS series, Reading Rainbow, and its charismatic host, LeVar Burton.

For those who grew up in the 1980s and 1990s, Reading Rainbow was more than just a television program—it was a gateway to the wonders of literature and imagination. LeVar Burton's warm presence and his infectious enthusiasm for reading left an indelible mark on a generation of children. He once said, "Reading is not just an escape, it is access. It is your access to a better life." Reading is our key to new cultures, new ideas that make us more compassionate people.

Now, decades later, as we have a Butterfly in the Sky documentary and its corresponding soundtrack, the timing feels almost serendipitous. In recent years, the United States has seen a disturbing trend of book bans and challenges in schools and libraries across the country. These efforts often target books that explore diverse perspectives, challenge societal norms, or address issues such as race, sexuality, and gender identity.

LeVar Burton's work on Reading Rainbow becomes even more significant now. By encouraging children to read widely and embrace stories from different backgrounds, Burton fostered empathy, critical thinking, and a love for learning. The Butterfly in the Sky soundtrack not only celebrates the legacy of Reading Rainbow but also serves as a poignant reminder of the values it championed—values that are now under threat in some educational environments.

The arrangements by The Octopus Project on the soundtrack are a testament to the enduring impact of Reading Rainbow's message. The music evokes a sense of wonder and discovery, mirroring the experience of diving into a good book. With whimsical melodies and ethereal harmonies, each track invites listeners to embark on a journey of imagination, much like Burton did on the small screen.

In a time when the importance of education and the freedom to explore diverse ideas are increasingly debated, the release of the Butterfly in the Sky Soundtrack feels like a beacon of hope. It reminds us of the power of literature to broaden horizons, spark curiosity, and foster empathy—a power that Burton so passionately advocated for throughout his tenure on Reading Rainbow.

As we listen to this soundtrack, let us not only reminisce about childhood memories, but also reaffirm our commitment to nurturing a love for reading and learning in future generations. Let us honor the legacy of LeVar Burton and Reading Rainbow by continuing to champion the right to access diverse literature and by encouraging children to reach for the skies—like butterflies in flight—through the pages of a good book.