
LeVar Burton Reads
The best short fiction, handpicked by the best voice in podcasting and presented in 3D immersive audio. In every episode, host LeVar Burton (Roots, Reading Rainbow, Star Trek) invites you to take a break from your daily life, and dive into a great story. LeVar’s narration blends with gorgeous soundscapes to bring stories by Stephen King, Toni Morrison, Nnedi Okorafor, Kurt Vonnegut, Ken Liu and more to life. So, if you’re ready, let’s take a deep breath...
Our immersive audio is best with headphones! If you'd prefer to listen without immersive audio, visit levarburtonpodcast.com/mono.
Latest episodes

Jul 24, 2018 • 55min
"Welcome to Your Authentic Indian Experience TM" by Rebecca Roanhorse
A tour guide leads virtual reality “experiences” for tourists who want to know what it’s like to be Native American. Think Black Mirror meets Westworld. Listen to ad-free episodes one week early, plus exclusive bonus episodes, only on Stitcher Premium. For a free month of listening, go to stitcherpremium.com/levar and use promo code 'LEVAR'.This episode is sponsored by Google Play (g.co/play/levar).

Jun 5, 2018 • 1h 2min
LIVE! in Seattle: "Black Betty" by Nisi Shawl
The story of Betty, and her struggle to be fully understood by her new family. Recorded on the LeVar Burton Reads LIVE! tour. With accompaniment by Gretchen Yanover, and featuring a conversation with author Nisi Shawl.This episode is brought to you by KiwiCo (www.kiwico.com/LEVAR) and Hungryroot (www.hungryroot.com code: LEVAR).

May 22, 2018 • 46min
LIVE! in Los Angeles: "Money Tree" by Nalo Hopkinson
A young man sets out to uncover sunken treasure and make his fortune, and his sister must pick up the pieces. Recorded on the LeVar Burton Reads LIVE! tour. With accompaniment by vibraphonist Justin Thomas, and featuring a conversation with the author. This story appears in Nalo Hopkinson's collection SKIN FOLK.

May 8, 2018 • 1h 4min
LIVE! in San Francisco: "As Good as New" by Charlie Jane Anders
A young woman unexpectedly finds herself with the fate of the world in her hands. Recorded on the LeVar Burton Reads LIVE! tour. With accompaniment by Astronauts, etc. keyboardist Anthony Ferraro, and featuring a conversation with Charlie Jane Anders. This story appears in Anders' collection SIX MONTHS, THREE DAYS, FIVE OTHERS.

Apr 24, 2018 • 1h 1min
LIVE! in Chicago: "The Winds of Harmattan" by Nnedi Okorafor
Nnedi Okorafor, an acclaimed author in speculative fiction, shares her journey of crafting intriguing stories that explore identity and self-discovery. She reads from 'The Winds of Harmattan,' focusing on a protagonist navigating societal expectations and personal desires amidst the vibrant setting of Nigeria. Musician Kahil El'Zabar complements her words with captivating kalimba tunes, enriching the narrative's emotional depth. Together, they explore themes of heroism, cultural roots, and the impact of community on personal journey.

Mar 20, 2018 • 37min
"The 5:22" by George Harrar
When a fellow passenger on his usual train goes missing, a man begins to wonder if everything is as it seems. Find more from the author at www.georgeharrarbooks.com. This episode is brought to you by Audible (audible.com/levar) and Tripping.com (www.tripping.com/LEVAR).

7 snips
Mar 13, 2018 • 42min
"My Dear You" by Rachel Khong
As she filters through memories and relationships, a young woman navigates a new plane of existence. Find more from the author at www.rachelkhong.com. Thanks to our presenting sponsor Audible. Start your free trial and get a free audiobook at audible.com/levar.

Feb 27, 2018 • 43min
"Different Kinds of Darkness" by David Langford
A group of children forms a secret society around a powerful artifact. Math class takes a thrilling turn with a dangerous pattern. The club experiments with darkness and faces interrogations. The photocopier holds a dangerous weapon. A dreamlike short story is explored.

Feb 20, 2018 • 47min
"Furry Night" by Joan Aiken
An elderly lycanthropist retires to his estate in the English countryside, but his rest is disturbed by a rowdy village tradition. "Furry Night" is copyright © 1976 by Joan Aiken. Available in THE PEOPLE IN THE CASTLE by Joan Aiken, published by Small Beer Press. Thanks to our presenting sponsor Audible. Start your free trial and get a free audiobook at audible.com/levar.

Feb 6, 2018 • 44min
"The Baboon War" by Nnedi Okorafor
Schoolgirls have a disturbing encounter with the animal kingdom; a mysterious bracelet leads to a war; the girls face off against attacking baboons; praise for the author's storytelling skills and recommendations; a scary underwater experience on a Descent Expedition Team.