Cover art for podcast LeVar Burton Reads

LeVar Burton Reads

174 EpisodesProduced by LeVar Burton and StitcherWebsite

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 sounds… read more

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"Kin" by Bruce McAllister

June 13th, 2017

33:14

A young boy contacts an alien assassin in the hopes of saving his sister’s life. "Kin" is part of Bruce McAllister's collection THE GIRL WHO LOVED …

"The Lighthouse Keeper" by Daisy Johnson

June 20th, 2017

30:44

The story of a solitary life by the sea, and a woman’s courage. "The Lighthouse Keeper" is part of FEN: STORIES, available from Graywolf Press. …

"Empty Places" Part One by Richard Parks

June 27th, 2017

45:08

An accomplished thief is approached by a wizard who wants to send him on an unusual mission. The two embark on a journey together, matching wits …

"Empty Places" Part Two by Richard Parks

July 4th, 2017

33:14

In the conclusion to our story, Jayn risks death when he infiltrates the queen’s chambers, and discovers the real reason for his mission. "Empty …

"What It Means When a Man Falls From the Sky" by Lesley Nneka Arimah

July 11th, 2017

45:06

A mathematician has discovered a formula that explains the universe and makes it possible to manipulate human bodies and emotions. "What It Means …

"Graham Greene" by Percival Everett

July 18th, 2017

49:37

A man is contacted by a 102-year-old woman with an unusual and seemingly impossible request. "Graham Greene" appears in Percival Everett's collection …

"Chivalry" by Neil Gaiman

July 25th, 2017

40:29

An elderly widow purchases the Holy Grail at a second-hand store, and becomes wrapped up in an epic quest. "Chivalry" appears in Neil Gaiman's …

"The Second Bakery Attack" by Haruki Murakami

August 1st, 2017

41:34

Cursed with an unbearable hunger, a newlywed couple goes to drastic measures to break its spell. "The Second Bakery Attack" appears in Haruki …

Bonus Episode: A Conversation with Lesley Nneka Arimah

August 8th, 2017

27:28

Today, a special bonus episode featuring a wide-ranging conversation between LeVar and Lesley Nneka Arimah, author of "What It Means When a Man Falls From the Sky".

Thanks to our presenting sponsor Audible. Start your …

"1000-Year-Old Ghosts" by Laura Chow Reeve

August 15th, 2017

31:55

A grandmother teaches her family to deal with difficult memories in a unique way -- by pickling them in jars. "1000-Year-Old Ghosts" appears in the …

"Navigators" by Mike Meginnis

August 22nd, 2017

42:58

A father and son become immersed in a video game with a unusual philosophical goal -- one that's unlike any game they've played before. "Navigators" appears in THE BEST AMERICAN SHORT STORIES 2012. Thanks to our …

"The Paper Menagerie" by Ken Liu

August 29th, 2017

49:45

An immigrant mother tries to bond with her American-born son by creating a magical paper menagerie. This story appears in Ken Liu's collection THE …

"No Man's Guns" by Elmore Leonard

September 5th, 2017

46:27

In a classic Western tale, a newly-discharged soldier runs into trouble on his journey home, and must fight for his innocence and his identity. "No …

Bonus Episode: "Goat" by James McBride

October 24th, 2017

1:08:20

A well-meaning teacher discovers a student's talent, and in the process of helping out his family, bites off more than she can chew. Recorded live at the Now Hear This festival. This story appears in James McBride's …

"Repairing the World" by John Chu

January 16th, 2018

48:29

Description: Two friends are tasked with protecting a world that is literally ripping at the seams. Find more from John Chu at johnchu.net. Thanks to our presenting sponsor Audible. Start your free trial and get a free …

"The Truth About Owls" by Amal El-Mohtar

January 23rd, 2018

48:39

A young girl explores her own power, and finds kinship with a bird of prey. Find more from the author at amalelmohtar.com. Thanks to our presenting sponsor Audible. Start your free trial and get a free audiobook at

"Unassigned Territory" by Stephanie Powell Watts

January 30th, 2018

42:40

A young Jehovah's Witness spends a blistering hot afternoon preaching door-to-door to hostile homeowners, and questioning her future. Copyright © 2011 by Stephanie Powell Watts, used by permission of Ecco, an imprint of …

"The Baboon War" by Nnedi Okorafor

February 6th, 2018

43:41

A group of schoolgirls have a disturbing and life-altering encounter with the animal kingdom. "The Baboon War" appears in Nnedi Okorafor's collection …

"Mrs. Perez" by Oscar Casares

February 6th, 2018

45:18

When a burglary deprives her of her most prized possession, a woman discovers just how resilient and assertive she can be. "Mrs. Perez" appears in …

"Furry Night" by Joan Aiken

February 20th, 2018

46:33

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 …

"Different Kinds of Darkness" by David Langford

February 27th, 2018

43:10

A group of children form a secret society around a mysterious and powerful artifact. This story appears in David Langford's collection DIFFERENT …

"The Great Wide World Over There" by Ray Bradbury

March 6th, 2018

48:58

A visitor's arrival delivers both wonder and heartache to a rural community. This story appears in Ray Bradbury's collection THE GOLDEN APPLES OF THE …

"My Dear You" by Rachel Khong

March 13th, 2018

41:42

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 …

"The 5:22" by George Harrar

March 20th, 2018

37:18

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 (

"A Fable with Slips of White Paper Spilling from the Pockets" by Kevin Brockmeier

March 27th, 2018

33:44

An ordinary man finds himself unexpectedly in possession of an extraordinary power. This story appears in Kevin Brockmeier's collection THE VIEW FROM …

"Childfinder" by Octavia Butler

April 3rd, 2018

40:07

A telepath uses her skills to mentor children with psionic ability. "Childfinder" is available in e-book format in the collection UNEXPECTED STORIES, …

LIVE! in Chicago: "The Winds of Harmattan" by Nnedi Okorafor

April 24th, 2018

1:01:01

A young woman discovers her destiny as a Windseeker. Recorded on the LeVar Burton Reads LIVE! tour. With accompaniment by the legendary instrumentalist and kalimba player Kahil El'Zabar, and featuring a conversation …

LIVE! in San Francisco: "As Good as New" by Charlie Jane Anders

May 8th, 2018

1:04:09

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 …

LIVE! in Los Angeles: "Money Tree" by Nalo Hopkinson

May 22nd, 2018

45:47

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 …

LIVE! in Seattle: "Black Betty" by Nisi Shawl

June 5th, 2018

1:01:57

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 …

LIVE! in Portland: "The Fliers of Gy" by Ursula K. Le Guin

June 19th, 2018

1:01:03

An interplanetary tale about those who take flight, and those who do not. Recorded on the LeVar Burton Reads LIVE! tour. This story appears in Le …

"Welcome to Your Authentic Indian Experience TM" by Rebecca Roanhorse

July 24th, 2018

54:52

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 …

"Sea Girls" by Daniel Wallace

July 31st, 2018

45:17

Two teenagers deal with family issues... and a stranded sea creature.

Listen to ad-free episodes one week early, plus exclusive bonus episodes, only on Stitcher Premium. For a free month of listening, go to

"The Last Cheng Beng Gift" by Jaymee Goh

August 7th, 2018

34:51

A family matriarch takes up residence in the Underworld. 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

"Fires" by Rick Bass

August 14th, 2018

41:46

In this meditative tale, a runner spends a summer training in a remote mountain town. This story appears in the collection FOR A LITTLE WHILE by Rick …

"Multo" by Samuel Marzioli

August 21st, 2018

39:05

A man remembers a supernatural force from his childhood. 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

"Fantaisie Impromptu No. 4 in C#min, Op. 66” by Carlos Hernandez

August 28th, 2018

48:38

A reporter travels to Miami to investigate the fringes of science and faith. This story appears in THE ASSIMILATED CUBAN'S GUIDE TO QUANTUM SANTERIA.


This episode is sponsored by The Great Courses (

"Fyrewall" by Stefani Cox

September 4th, 2018

42:36

In a future version of Los Angeles, a woman and her ragtag crew must repair a critical piece of technology or let the city burn to the ground.


This …

"Jackalope Wives" by Ursula Vernon

September 11th, 2018

49:46

A brooding young man is captivated by a magical creature who dances in the firelight. This story appears in JACKALOPE WIVES AND OTHER STORIES by T. Kingfisher.



This episode is sponsored by Sierra Club (

"The Cell Phones" by Karen E. Bender

September 18th, 2018

30:33

A Rosh Hashanah service is interrupted by voices clamoring for attention. This story appears in the forthcoming collection THE NEW ORDER.


This episode …

"Singing on a Star" by Ellen Klages

September 25th, 2018

48:41

A kindergartner travels through a portal to a fantastic and eerie new world. This story appears in Ellen's collection WICKED WONDERS.


This episode is …

"Yiwu" by Lavie Tidhar

October 2nd, 2018

53:04

For a humble shopkeeper in Yiwu, it’s a living, selling lottery tickets. Until a winning ticket opens up mysteries he’d never imagined.


This episode is sponsored by Bona Floor Cleaners (www.bona.com), The Great Courses (

"Morning Child" by Gardner Dozois

October 9th, 2018

31:40

Two people reconnect in a post-apocalyptic world. © 1984 by Gardner Dozois. Originally published in OMNI. Used by permission of the author’s Estate and the Estate’s agents, the Virginia Kidd Agency, Inc.



This episode is …

LIVE! in Brooklyn: "Playing Nice with God's Bowling Ball" by N.K. Jemisin

December 11th, 2018

57:16

In this fantastical police procedural, detectives are perplexed when a young boy confesses to a murder. "Playing Nice with God's Bowling Ball" was …

LIVE! in Austin: "Asymmetry" by Kendra Fortmeyer

December 18th, 2018

46:52

While suffering through a breakup, a woman encounters a strange figure. Recorded live in Austin at the Paramount Theatre, with musical accompaniment by Peter Tran of Curved Light.

LIVE! in Atlanta: "The Vishakanya's Choice" by Roshani Chokshi

January 8th, 2019

51:13

After spending years in isolation with her vishakanya sisters, a poison maiden is given her first deadly mission. © 2015 Roshani Chokshi, as first …

LIVE! in Toronto: "Four Stations in His Circle" by Austin Clarke

January 15th, 2019

54:44

Language Advisory: This story contains adult language. An immigrant from Barbados strives to shake off his past, buy his dream house, and climb the …

LIVE! in Dallas: "In the City of Martyrs" by Bonnie Jo Stufflebeam

January 22nd, 2019

50:48

A fantasy tale about a royal family, a flower seller, and a shocking discovery. Recorded live at the Majestic Theatre with musical accompaniment by Zhenya Rock.


This episode is sponsored by Calm (www.calm.com/LEVAR).

LIVE! in DC: "A Dark Night" by Edward P. Jones

January 29th, 2019

50:38

A stormy evening leads to a dark night of the soul. Recorded live at the Lincoln Theatre in Washington, D.C. with musical accompaniment by Élise …

LIVE! in New Jersey: "Driftglass" by Samuel R. Delany

February 5th, 2019

1:00:49

As a new frontier is explored on the ocean floor, an amphiman is haunted by a deep sea accident from his youth. Recorded live at the Scottish Rite Auditorium with musical accompaniment by Kendrah Butler. "Driftglass" is …

LIVE! in Boston: "Mono No Aware" by Ken Liu

February 12th, 2019

1:02:25

A space traveler flashes back to memories of his childhood in Japan, before the world ended. Recorded live at the Wilbur Theatre with music provided by Katy Wherry and Jake Wherry. "Mono No Aware" appears in THE PAPER …

"Miracle" by Tope Folarin

April 2nd, 2019

43:08

A congregation eagerly anticipates the healing powers of a blind prophet. "Miracle" © 2019 by Tope Folarin. From Harvard's Transition magazine, Issue …

"Free Jim's Mine" by Tananarive Due

April 9th, 2019

55:15

In pursuit of freedom from slavery, a young couple must gather up their courage and spend a night underground. "Free Jim's Mine" appears in …

"Kwoon" by Charles Johnson

April 16th, 2019

45:06

A martial arts instructor meets his match. "Kwoon" appears in Charles Johnson's collection DR. KING'S REFRIGERATOR AND OTHER BEDTIME STORIES.



This …

“The Best We Can” by Carrie Vaughn

April 23rd, 2019

46:04

A scientist fights for the investigation of an unidentified object in space. "The Best We Can" appears in Carrie Vaughn's collection AMARYLLIS AND …

"Mister Hadj's Sunset Ride" by Saladin Ahmed

April 30th, 2019

33:50

A bounty hunter reminisces about his escapades with an old mentor and friend in this weird western. This story appears in the magazine BENEATH …

"Republica and Grau" by Daniel Alarcón

May 7th, 2019

42:22

A ten year old boy is enlisted to help a blind man beg at a traffic intersection, and is exposed to a new side of humanity. “Republica and Grau” is …

"The Galactic Tourist Industrial Complex" by Tobias S. Buckell

May 14th, 2019

40:27

A cab driver spends an ordinary day ferrying passengers around Manhattan -- until an incident involving a wealthy alien tourist imperils his …

"Toward Happy Civilization" by Samanta Schweblin

May 21st, 2019

44:26

A man finds something strange going on at a rural train station. “Toward Happy Civilization” is from MOUTHFUL OF BIRDS by Samanta Schweblin, published by Riverhead Books, an imprint of Penguin Publishing Group, a …

"Flying Carpets" by Steven Millhauser

May 28th, 2019

34:41

A man remembers a summer from his youth, filled with rides on a flying carpet. “Flying Carpets” is from Steven Millhauser’s collection THE KNIFE …

"The Merchant and the Alchemist's Gate" Part 1 by Ted Chiang

June 5th, 2019

53:26

A wandering merchant in medieval Baghdad is brought before the Caliph, and recounts tales of ingenious gates that allow time travel to the past and future. “The Merchant and the Alchemist's Gate” is from EXHALATION by …

"The Merchant and the Alchemist's Gate" Part 2 by Ted Chiang

June 11th, 2019

48:12

Join us for the conclusion of this time travel tale set in medieval Baghdad. “The Merchant and the Alchemist's Gate” is from EXHALATION by Ted Chiang, published by Penguin Random House Audio, an

imprint of Penguin …

"L'Aquilone du Estrellas (The Kite of Stars)" by Dean Francis Alfar

June 18th, 2019

40:14

A young woman sets out on a quest to find all of the impossible materials needed to build a kite that can carry her to the stars.



This episode is sponsored by Penguin Random House (www.penguinrandomhouse.com/levar), …

"The Simplest Equation" by Nicky Drayden

August 13th, 2019

35:36

A struggling college student gains new perspective on her studies from her classmate, who's come to study from another planet. This story was first …

"Shoggoths in Traffic" by Tobias S. Buckell

August 20th, 2019

39:23

Two co-workers repossess a car to make some quick cash, and get mixed up in a surprising and much larger scheme. Content advisory tags: Blood, Road …

"Cuisine des Mémoires" by N.K. Jemisin

August 27th, 2019

48:24

A themed restaurant presents a very unique opportunity to its patrons. This story appears in N.K. Jemisin's collection HOW LONG 'TIL BLACK FUTURE …

"Small Medicine" by Genevieve Valentine

September 3rd, 2019

46:24

A girl scrutinizes the line between humans and robots when her grandmother is replaced with a replica. Content advisory: Death or dying, self-harming behaviors



This episode is sponsored by There Will Come a Darkness, A …

“Face Value” by Sean Williams

September 10th, 2019

44:33

A team of peace-keepers investigate an inventor with an astonishing claim.


This episode is sponsored by Betterhelp (www.betterhelp.com/levar code: LEVAR) and The Great Courses (www.thegreatcoursesplus.com/LEVAR).

“Blur" by Carmen Maria Machado

September 17th, 2019

41:18

A woman in a troubled relationship loses her glasses at a rest stop along the highway, and the world shifts in and out of focus. Content advisory: …

"Tiger Baby" by JY Yang

September 24th, 2019

34:19

A woman is haunted by her dreams of being a tiger.



This episode is sponsored by Betterhelp (www.betterhelp.com/levar code: LEVAR) and The Great Courses (www.thegreatcoursesplus.com/LEVAR).

"The House on the Moon" by William Alexander

October 1st, 2019

50:52

A castle's mysteries begin to slowly unravel. Content advisory: mentions of death, eugenics



This episode is sponsored by Mythical Monsters podcast (www.parcast.com/mythicalmonsters)

"The Water Museum" by Nisi Shawl

October 8th, 2019

49:52

The owner of an unusual private museum picks up a hitchhiker sent to assassinate her. This story appears in Nisi Shawl's collection FILTER HOUSE. …

BONUS: Stories with Friends - Amanda Seales

October 11th, 2019

47:35

In Stories with Friends, LeVar invites one of his friends to sit down for a conversation inspired by a short story or another piece of literature, …

"Jump" by Cadwell Turnbull

October 15th, 2019

31:21

An ordinary couple experiences an extraordinary event during a walk in the park. "Jump" was first published in LIGHTSPEED MAGAZINE. Cadwell …

"The Specialist's Hat" by Kelly Link

October 22nd, 2019

50:20

Twin girls are left with a babysitter in a haunted house.

“The Specialist’s Hat” © 1998 by Kelly Link. Originally published in Event Horizon, 1998, and reprinted in Kelly Link’s Stranger Things Happen (Small Beer Press, …

"The Hofzinser Club" by Michael Chabon

October 29th, 2019

53:48

A boy studies magic and escape artistry in 1930s Prague, hoping to become a member of an illustrious magicians' club. From Michael Chabon's THE AMAZING ADVENTURES OF KAVALIER AND CLAY.



This episode is sponsored by Aspen …

The Paris Review Podcast Returns

November 6th, 2019

12:14

Embark on audio adventures through The Paris Review's fiction, poetry, interviews, archival recordings, and sonic imaginings with the likes of Toni Morrison, Simone de Beauvoir, Tennessee Williams, and today's leading …

BONUS: Behind the Scenes and a Sneak Peek at Season 6!

January 21st, 2020

13:44

Get ready for Season 6! Get a peek behind the curtain as LeVar talks about story selection, vocal exercises, and finding characters' voices.

This season will feature stories by NK Jemisin, Elizabeth Bear, Max …

"Tideline" by Elizabeth Bear

January 28th, 2020

45:41

A sentient robot searches for her purpose in a post-war world. This story was originally published in Asimov's Science Fiction magazine in March 2007. It is available in THE BEST OF ELIZABETH BEAR.

Content advisory: …

"Valedictorian" by N.K. Jemisin

February 4th, 2020

54:13

A smart, stubborn high school student sets her own rules in a near-future dystopia. This story appears in N.K. Jemisin's collection HOW LONG 'TIL …

"As Worlds Collide" by Stephen Michell

February 11th, 2020

47:06

A young couple tries to make sense of an influx of mythic creatures. This story was first published in THOSE WHO MAKE US: CANADIAN CREATURE, MYTH, AND MONSTER STORIES.

"SPAM" by Savannah Burney

February 18th, 2020

44:46

A misanthropic B&B owner is unsettled by an encounter with one of his guests. Follow Savannah Burney on Twitter @savannahburney.

"End Game" by Nancy Kress

February 25th, 2020

44:12

A man becomes obsessed with quieting the thoughts and static in his brain. You can find this story in FOUNTAIN OF AGE by Nancy Kress.

"Skinwalker, Fast-Talker" by Darcie Little Badger

March 3rd, 2020

42:46

A tabloid reporter sets out to investigate a fast-talking con man who may or may not be the trickster Coyote.

"Staying Behind" by Ken Liu

March 10th, 2020

51:03

As humanity tiptoes toward the Singularity, what happens to those who are left behind? This story appears in Ken Liu's new collection THE HIDDEN GIRL …

"A Kiss with Teeth" by Max Gladstone

March 17th, 2020

55:34

In order to live an urban lifestyle as a father and husband, a domesticated vampire must suppress his darker urges. This story first appeared at …

"Let Those Who Would" by Genevieve Valentine

March 24th, 2020

42:23

A dystopian society tackles fake news.

Content advisory: violence

"Recitatif" by Toni Morrison, Part 1

March 31st, 2020

38:19

Two young girls, abandoned by the world, are drawn together.

Content advisory: archaic/derogatory language

"Recitatif" by Toni Morrison, Part 2

April 7th, 2020

44:24

Join us for the conclusion to Toni Morrison's tale. Twyla and Roberta's longstanding and complicated friendship becomes more challenging as they …

"The Foster Portfolio" by Kurt Vonnegut

April 14th, 2020

46:18

A financial advisor meets his new client: a hardworking, unassuming man with a curious and potentially life-changing secret.

"The Foster Portfolio" is …

A Conversation with James McBride (and News About Season 7!)

August 4th, 2020

28:38

You heard that correctly -- we're coming back for a new season starting August 11! So make sure to hit subscribe if you haven't already, and check out LeVar's recent conversation with James McBride, author of "Goat" …

"Pockets" by Amal El-Mohtar

August 11th, 2020

42:18

What could it mean to reach into your pocket and pull out... something that wasn't there before? Find more from Amal El-Mohtar at www.amalelmohtar.com

"Your Rover is Here" by LP Kindred

August 18th, 2020

38:47

A rideshare driver must spring into action when his passenger casts a dangerous and deadly spell.

Content advisory: explicit language, violence, …

"The Nine Curves River" by R. F. Kuang

August 25th, 2020

54:39

A girl escorts her younger sister on an important and life-altering journey, while thinking back on their relationship and the nature of sacrifice.

"Room for Rent" by Richie Narvaez

September 1st, 2020

35:55

A family in dire straits must share their new home with a different species. This story was published in Latinx Rising: An Anthology of Latinx …

"Cricket" by Kenneth Yu

September 8th, 2020

39:41

A family is both delighted and troubled by the visitation of a peculiar insect. "Cricket" was published in Lauriat: A Filipino-Chinese Speculative …

"Madre Nuestra, Que Estás en Maracaibo" by Ana Hurtado

September 15th, 2020

41:14

A woman discovers her grandmother is being haunted by unearthly spirits. Find more of Ana Hurtado's work at www.anahurtadowrites.com.


Content Advisory: Death, discussion of suicide

"Dune Song" by Suyi Davies Okungbowa

September 22nd, 2020

49:57

A young girl must negotiate her own path out of a strict community in a post-disaster desertland. Visit www.suyidavies.com for more information on Suyi's work, including his novel DAVID MOGO, GODHUNTER.

Content …

"Wherein Abigail Fields Recalls Her First Death and, Subsequently, Her Best Life" by Rebecca Roanhorse

September 29th, 2020

45:44

A young Black girl in 1880s New Mexico territory seeks vengeance, risking life and love in the process.

Content Advisory: violence, death

"Low Energy Economy" by Adrian Tchaikovsky

October 6th, 2020

37:31

An asteroid miner on a solo space mission finds his sense of purpose.

This story appears in the anthology CONSOLATION SONGS.

"A Good Friday" by Barbara Jenkins

October 13th, 2020

44:20

A chance encounter in a bar leads to an eventful Good Friday for a devout woman and a playboy.

"The Story We Used to Tell" by Shirley Jackson

October 20th, 2020

33:11

A recently widowed woman vanishes overnight.


Content advisory: violence, death

“The Story We Used to Tell” is from DARK TALES by Shirley Jackson, …

"Little Man" by Michael Cunningham

October 27th, 2020

51:46

A 200-year-old gnome desperately wants to become a father.

"Little Man" is from A WILD SWAN AND OTHER TALES by Michael Cunningham, illustrated by …

Miniseries Coming November 17

November 10th, 2020

1:45

LeVar announces a special three-part series featuring one of his favorite authors!

"Mother of Invention" by Nnedi Okorafor, Part 1

November 17th, 2020

41:30

A young woman in a future Nigeria finds herself in a deadly pollen storm, alone but for her smart home.

"Mother of Invention" by Nnedi Okorafor, Part 2

November 24th, 2020

35:38

Join us for the conclusion of this smart house story set in a future Nigeria. Will Anwuli and her child survive the storm?

Content advisory: blood

Nnedi Okorafor, Author of "Mother of Invention", Part 3

December 1st, 2020

51:06

LeVar talks to Africanfuturist Nnedi Okorafor about the visceral nature of her writing, writing a beautiful and green future for the Niger Delta, and …

Season 8... Coming Soon!

January 26th, 2021

2:17

The wait is nearly over! Join us for Season 8 of LeVar Burton Reads, beginning next week and featuring stories from Rebecca Roanhorse, Tobias Wolff, …

"Silver Door Diner" by Bishop Garrison

February 2nd, 2021

49:00

A waitress is jolted from her morning routine when she's visited by a mysterious child.

"The Takeback Tango" by Rebecca Roanhorse

February 9th, 2021

41:33

A teenage thief embarks on a mission to reclaim her people's sacred treasures. First published in A UNIVERSE OF WISHES in 2020 in the United States by Crown Books for Young Readers, an imprint of Random House Children’s …

"Daddy" by Damion Wilson

February 16th, 2021

37:01

A woman struggles to understand why her elderly father has begun to spontaneously teleport.

Content advisory: drug addiction, illness, death

"Alluvial Deposits" by Percival Everett

February 23rd, 2021

50:27

A government contractor deals with everyday frustrations in a small town. "Alluvial Deposits" appears in Percival Everett's collection DAMNED IF I …

"The Regression Test" by Wole Talabi

March 2nd, 2021

41:07

A woman helps to test the artificial intelligence based on the mind of her mother, a brilliant thinker. "The Regression Test" appears in Wole …

"Flyboys" by Tobias Wolff

March 9th, 2021

56:03

Adolescent boys are faced with the reality of friendships, old and new, as they work on plans to build their own airplane.

"Flyboys" appears in …

"Killer of Kings" by Anjali Sachdeva

March 16th, 2021

45:15

Guided by an angel, a writer pens his greatest -- and perhaps most dangerous -- work.

"Killer of Kings" appears in Anjali Sachdeva's collection ALL …

"An Equal Share of the Bone" by Karen Osborne

March 23rd, 2021

38:41

Hoping to make their fortune (or at least climb out of debt), a trio of space traders travel on a dangerous hunt for a space whale.

"An Equal Share of the Bone" was originally published at Escape Pod. Find more of …

"Salt" by Rosemary Melchior

March 30th, 2021

34:41

A teenage girl is exiled to a penal colony on an icy, inhospitable island.

But the island contains secrets, and so does the girl.

Content …

"Getaway" by Nicole Kornher-Stace

April 6th, 2021

49:34

A getaway driver and her crew are hired to steal a mysterious artifact, and inadvertently get locked into a time loop. Find more from Nicole …

"Vaccine Season" by Hannu Rajaniemi

April 13th, 2021

54:22

In a post-pandemic future where scientists have made great strides in eliminating disease, a young boy faces his fears and ventures out to his grandfather's island to give him an important vaccine.

This story appears …

"St. Valentine, St. Abigail, St. Brigid" by C.L. Polk

April 20th, 2021

53:10

Theresa Anne has spent years watching her mother tell fortunes and work magical spells. But when she asks to protect the girl she loves, she learns …

Season 9 is Almost Here!

June 15th, 2021

4:28

LeVar Burton Reads is back June 22nd, featuring stories from P Djeli Clark, Anjali Sachdeva, Ekaterina Sedia, Isabel Yap and more. But if you just can't wait to hear a new story -- here's a sneak peek...

"The Bank of Burkina Faso" by Ekaterina Sedia

June 22nd, 2021

41:30

What if those spammy emails from princes about overseas banks were... real? An exiled prince teams up with the widow of a military general to recover their fortunes from the Bank of Burkina Faso.

This story appears in …

"Jealous Husband Returns in Form of Parrot" by Robert Olen Butler

June 29th, 2021

35:39

A man dies and finds himself reincarnated as a parrot.

This story appears in Robert Olen Butler's collection TABLOID DREAMS. His forthcoming novel, …

"Dark Spaces on the Map" by Anjali Sachdeva

July 6th, 2021

48:06

A woman has her memories catalogued for the historical record, and must decide whether or not to divulge a painful and complicated moment from her …

"Milagroso" by Isabel Yap

July 13th, 2021

46:15

Marty brings his family to his hometown of Lucban for the annual festival to witness a miracle: lab-grown, synthetic food made real.

This story …

"The Angel of Khan El-Khalili" by P. Djèlí Clark

July 20th, 2021

52:17

A girl visits a bazaar in Cairo, seeking a favor from a mysterious angelic being.

This story first appeared in the anthology Clockwork Cairo: …

"The War of the Wall" by Toni Cade Bambara

July 27th, 2021

32:43

A young boy feuds with a muralist who has taken over a beloved hangout in his neighborhood.

Don't forget! The LeVar Burton Reads Writing Contest opens for submissions on August 1st. Check out

"You Perfect, Broken Thing" by C.L. Clark

August 3rd, 2021

40:07

An athlete trains to win a prize that would ensure her survival.

Content advisory: Discussion of degenerative illness, death

Submissions are now open …

"The Years of My Birth" by Louise Erdrich

August 10th, 2021

46:01

A woman recounts the story of her birth as a surprise twin and adoption by a Native American couple, and questions the strange presence she has felt with her since childhood.

Louise Erdrich's novel THE SENTENCE will …

"Words We Say Instead" by Brit E. B. Hvide

August 17th, 2021

49:39

A veteran pilot revisits memories, and searches for remnants of her old experimental smartship.

Content advisory: War

Submissions are now open for …

"Shock of Birth" by Cadwell Turnbull

August 24th, 2021

39:03

A man questions his current existence -- and the life he remembers from before. Originally published in Asimov's Science Fiction, and reprinted in Lightspeed.

Content advisory: mention of mental illness

Only a few more …

"Tía Abuela's Face, Ten Ways" by Lisa M. Bradley

August 31st, 2021

34:49

An anthropologist copes with the passing of her beloved tía abuela, experimenting with her own method of honoring her. This story was first published …

"On the Lonely Shore" by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

September 7th, 2021

39:05

A young woman is hired to look after an ailing man who's been ostracized by his family and sent to live in an old house by the sea.

Find more from …

Revisited: "The Paper Menagerie" by Ken Liu

October 12th, 2021

49:30

An immigrant mother tries to bond with her American-born son by creating a magical paper menagerie. This story appears in Ken Liu's collection THE …

Revisited: "Welcome to Your Authentic Indian Experience TM" by Rebecca Roanhorse

October 19th, 2021

56:34

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. For more great writing by Rebecca, check out her acclaimed debut …

Revisited (Halloween Edition!): "Singing on a Star" by Ellen Klages

October 26th, 2021

49:55

A kindergartner travels through a portal to a fantastic and eerie new world. This story appears in Ellen's collection WICKED WONDERS. Find more of …

Season 10 Announcement and a Q&A!

November 30th, 2021

9:42

LeVar Burton Reads is back December 7th, featuring work from Tananarive Due, Stephen Graham Jones and Sarah Gailey, a winter holiday story, the …

"The Wishing Pool" by Tananarive Due

December 7th, 2021

43:39

When Joy revisits her family's old cabin, she's reminded of childhood memories of a pond in the woods and its mysterious powers. 


 

For more from …

"Different People" by Timothy Mudie

December 14th, 2021

49:38

A man begins a relationship with a woman who has fled from a disintegrating parallel universe.


 

For more from the author, check out his website www.timothymudie.com or find him on Twitter @timothy_mudie.


 

Content …

"The Usual Santas" by Mick Herron

December 21st, 2021

38:23

A group of mall Santas celebrating Christmas Eve discover that there is a stranger in their midst.


 

"The Usual Santas" appears in Mick Herron's …

"Drones to Ploughshares" by Sarah Gailey

December 28th, 2021

43:51

A sentient government surveillance drone is ensnared, and must determine his captor's motives. For more from Sarah Gailey, visit www.sarahgailey.com.

"To Jump is to Fall" by Stephen Graham Jones

January 4th, 2022

32:43

A spy narrates his thoughts as he jumps from an airplane and freefalls toward his government target.

If you enjoyed this story, check out Stephen Graham Jones' novel, MY HEART IS A CHAINSAW, published by Saga Press.

"The Placement Agency" by Tobias Buckell

January 11th, 2022

40:24

What's the weirdest temp job you can imagine? One outside time and space...

This story appears in Tobias Buckell's collection SHOGGOTHS IN TRAFFIC AND …

Immersive Remix: "The Galactic Tourist Industrial Complex" by Tobias S. Buckell

January 18th, 2022

42:09

Get a sneak peek of our our immersive sound! A cab driver spends an ordinary day ferrying passengers around Manhattan -- until an incident involving …

"The Final Performance of the Amazing Ralphie" by Pat Cadigan

January 25th, 2022

48:59

An AI-controlled avatar built to entertain patients in deep space performs innocuous magic tricks for patients... until one day, he adds something …

"Open House on Haunted Hill" by John Wiswell

February 1st, 2022

32:55

A sentient house, haunted by its own loneliness, exercises its powers on a skeptic. This story was published by Diabolical Plots.


 

Content advisory: …

"John Dillinger and the Blind Magician" by Allison M. Dickson

February 8th, 2022

49:25

Public Enemy Number One, John Dillinger, looks to escape the feds with the help of a cunning wizard.


 

Content advisory: Gunfire

"Troll Bridge" by Terry Pratchett

February 15th, 2022

38:14

An aging barbarian sets out to battle a bridge troll, mano a mano, and thus prove his mettle. “Troll Bridge” by Terry Pratchett, was first published …

"The Last Truth" by AnaMaria Curtis

February 22nd, 2022

57:34

This week: the first place winner of the LeVar Burton Reads writing contest, as co-presented by FIYAH Literary Magazine and Tor.com! A runaway and indentured thief, Eri must provide a new secret to open each new lock, …

"Afterlife" by Stephen King

March 1st, 2022

47:23

William Andrews, an investment banker with Goldman Sachs, dies on September 23, 2012, and finds himself confronted with his life after death.


 

Immersive Remix: "The Paper Menagerie" by Ken Liu

April 12th, 2022

53:18

A new immersive remix of a season one classic. An immigrant mother tries to bond with her American-born son by creating a magical paper menagerie. …

An Update! Plus Immersive Remix: "The Story We Used to Tell" by Shirley Jackson

October 4th, 2022

34:18

LeVar Burton Reads is coming back! Plus, an immersive remix of Shirley Jackson's story about a recently widowed woman who vanishes overnight.

Content …

Immersive Remix: "Your Rover is Here" by LP Kindred

October 11th, 2022

39:16

A rideshare driver must spring into action when his passenger casts a dangerous and deadly spell.


 

 

Content advisory: explicit language, violence, …

Immersive Remix: "Fantaisie Impromptu No. 4 in C#min, Op. 66” by Carlos Hernandez

October 18th, 2022

49:22

A reporter travels to Miami to investigate the fringes of science and faith. This story appears in THE ASSIMILATED CUBAN'S GUIDE TO QUANTUM SANTERIA.

Immersive Remix: "Multo" by Samuel Marzioli

October 25th, 2022

39:30

A man remembers a supernatural force from his childhood.

We're Back for Season 11!

October 25th, 2022

3:15

LeVar Burton Reads is back November 1st with stories from Stephen Graham Jones, Kim Fu, Tobias Buckell and more, in our new immersive format!

"I Was a Teenage Space Jockey" by Stephen Graham Jones

November 1st, 2022

43:36

While on a quest to beat the high score at his local arcade, a sixth grader has an unusual, life-altering experience. 

For more from Stephen Graham Jones, visit www.demontheory.net.


 

Content advisory: Descriptions of …

"#ClimbingNation" by Kim Fu

November 8th, 2022

49:54

When an Instagram-famous rock climber comes to an untimely death, his friends and admirers gather to memorialize him.


 

This story appears in Kim Fu's …

"Down in the Dim Kingdoms" by Tobias Buckell

November 15th, 2022

44:59

An adventurer carried back spoils from a journey to the center of the earth. Now, his family joins him on a return trip, hoping to ensure their …

"Family Cooking" by Ana Maria Curtis

November 22nd, 2022

45:18

A tale of complicated family relationships and magical cooking. This story was first published in Uncanny Magazine.

"The King of Bread" by Luis Alberto Urrea

November 29th, 2022

48:51

A boy discovers his father's hidden kingdom.
 


This story appears in the anthology Small Odysseys: Selected Shorts Presents 35 New Stories, published …

"River's Giving" by Heather Shaw, Tim Pratt, and River Shaw

December 6th, 2022

37:36

A mystical phenomenon brightens the dreary days of winter — until one year, when it suddenly stops.

Immersive Remix: "The Usual Santas" by Mick Herron

December 13th, 2022

39:00

A group of mall Santas celebrating Christmas Eve discover that there is a stranger in their midst.


 

"The Usual Santas" appears in Mick Herron's …

Immersive Remix: "The Last Cheng Beng Gift" by Jaymee Goh

December 20th, 2022

34:44

A family matriarch takes up residence in the Underworld.

Immersive Remix: "The Truth About Owls" by Amal El-Mohtar

December 27th, 2022

46:47

A young girl explores her own power, and finds kinship with a bird of prey.

Immersive Remix: "The Simplest Equation" by Nicky Drayden

January 3rd, 2023

34:47

A struggling college student gains new perspective on her studies from her classmate, who's come to study from another planet. Find more of the …

Immersive Remix: "Silver Door Diner" by Bishop Garrison

January 10th, 2023

48:52

A waitress is jolted from her morning routine when she's visited by a mysterious child.

Immersive Remix: "The Foster Portfolio" by Kurt Vonnegut

January 17th, 2023

46:44

A financial advisor meets his new client: a hardworking, unassuming man with a curious and potentially life-changing secret.

"Wok Hei St" by Guan Un

January 24th, 2023

42:45

A story of a stolen wok, magic, and manipulation. This story was originally published in Strange Horizons. You can find more of the author's work at

"The Lady of the Yellow-Painted Library" by Tobi Ogundiran

January 31st, 2023

50:25

A hapless salesman flees the librarian hell-bent on retrieving her lost library book. This story appears in Africa Risen: A New Era of Speculative …

"The Golden Hour" by Jeffrey Ford

February 7th, 2023

57:43

A time traveler is stranded in a small town. This story appears in SOMEONE IN TIME: TALES OF TIME-CROSSED ROMANCE, published by Solaris. Find more …

"Mister Dawn, How Can You Be So Cruel?" by Violet Allen

February 14th, 2023

53:05

An artist works as a dream concierge, creating augmented dream packages for clients. For more from Violet Allen, visit her on Twitter @blipstress.

"The Destination Star" by Gregory Marlow

February 21st, 2023

49:34

As a generation ship hurtles toward a distant star, one of its crew members receives a rare and precious opportunity. For more from Gregory Marlow, visit www.greganimates.com/writing.html.
 

Content advisory: illness, …

"D.P." by Kurt Vonnegut

February 28th, 2023

37:51

In a small German village, an orphaned boy lives at a home for "displaced persons," and puzzles over where he belongs.

"D.P.” from the book WELCOME TO THE MONKEY HOUSE by Kurt Vonnegut. Copyright © 1950, 1951, 1953, …

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