READING RAINBOW is a magazine program for children that introduces a wide range of educational topics that promote awareness of the world and inspire reading. This episode features the book MRS. KATZ AND TUSH, writtern by Patricia Polacco and read by Reizl Bozyk and Rick English. In this story Lionel, an African American boy, befriends his neighbor Mrs. Katz, an elderly Jewish widow. The friendship begins when Lionel gives her a stray cat, whom Mrs. Katz names Tush. Lionel visits Mrs. Katz often and she teaches him about many Jewish customs and introduces him to Jewish food. A strong friendship develops between Lionel and Mrs. Katz, which lasts until her death. Host LeVar Burton discusses the importance of young people developing ties with older relatives and friends. He introduces one of his older friends Shari Graham who shows LeVar how to make some traditional Jewish food. The kids review the books WILFRID GORDON McDONALD PARTRIDGE, ABUELA, and KWANZAA.
