LeVar Burton Reads

By LeVar Burton and Stitcher

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Subscribers: 9266
Reviews: 48
Episodes: 175


 Feb 8, 2023

2bepainted
 Dec 3, 2022


 Oct 17, 2022

Thomas
 Sep 29, 2022


 Feb 19, 2022

Description

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.

Episode Date
Immersive Remix: "An Equal Share of the Bone" by Karen Osborne
00:39:47

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 Karen Osborne's work at www.karenosborne.com. Content Advisory: Animal death.

 

Our immersive audio is best with headphones! If you'd prefer to listen without immersive audio, visit levarburtonpodcast.com/mono.

Apr 04, 2023
"D.P." by Kurt Vonnegut
00:37:51

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, 1954, 1955, 1956, 1958, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1964, 1966, 1968 by Kurt Vonnegut Jr. Used by permission of HarperCollins Publishers.

Feb 28, 2023
"The Destination Star" by Gregory Marlow
00:49:34

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, death

Feb 21, 2023
"Mister Dawn, How Can You Be So Cruel?" by Violet Allen
00:53:05

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

Content advisory: mind / body control

Feb 14, 2023
"The Golden Hour" by Jeffrey Ford
00:57:43

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 from Jeffrey Ford at well-builtcity.com.
 


Content advisory: suicide

Feb 07, 2023
"The Lady of the Yellow-Painted Library" by Tobi Ogundiran
00:50:25

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 Fiction, published by Tordotcom in hardcover and e-book, and by Recorded Books in audiobook format. For more from the author, visit tobiogundiran.com.


Content advisory: Explicit language, gore

Jan 31, 2023
"Wok Hei St" by Guan Un
00:42:45

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 guanun.com.

Jan 24, 2023
Immersive Remix: "The Foster Portfolio" by Kurt Vonnegut
00:46:44

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

Jan 17, 2023
Immersive Remix: "Silver Door Diner" by Bishop Garrison
00:48:52

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

Jan 10, 2023
Immersive Remix: "The Simplest Equation" by Nicky Drayden
00:34:47

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 author's work at www.nickydrayden.com.

Jan 03, 2023
Immersive Remix: "The Truth About Owls" by Amal El-Mohtar
00:46:47

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

Dec 27, 2022
Immersive Remix: "The Last Cheng Beng Gift" by Jaymee Goh
00:34:44

A family matriarch takes up residence in the Underworld.

Dec 20, 2022
Immersive Remix: "The Usual Santas" by Mick Herron
00:39:00

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 collection DOLPHIN JUNCTION, published by Soho Press (US) and John Murray (UK), 2021.

Dec 13, 2022
"River's Giving" by Heather Shaw, Tim Pratt, and River Shaw
00:37:36

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

Dec 06, 2022
"The King of Bread" by Luis Alberto Urrea
00:48:51

A boy discovers his father's hidden kingdom.
 


This story appears in the anthology Small Odysseys: Selected Shorts Presents 35 New Stories, published by Algonquin Books. Find more from Luis Alberto Urrea at luisurrea.com.

Nov 29, 2022
"Family Cooking" by Ana Maria Curtis
00:45:18

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

Nov 22, 2022
"Down in the Dim Kingdoms" by Tobias Buckell
00:44:59

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 access to his fortune.


 

This story appears in the anthology LOST WORLDS AND MYTHOLOGICAL KINGDOMS, available now in hardback, e-book and audio.
 


 

Tobias Buckell's collection SHOGGOTHS IN TRAFFIC AND OTHER STORIES is available in paperback, e-book and audio.


 

Content advisory: Violence, death

Nov 15, 2022
"#ClimbingNation" by Kim Fu
00:49:54

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 collection LESSER KNOWN MONSTERS OF THE 21ST CENTURY, published by Tin House.


 

Content advisory: Description of death 

Nov 08, 2022
"I Was a Teenage Space Jockey" by Stephen Graham Jones
00:43:36

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 violence, death 

Nov 01, 2022
We're Back for Season 11!
00:03:15

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

Oct 25, 2022
Immersive Remix: "Multo" by Samuel Marzioli
00:39:30

A man remembers a supernatural force from his childhood.

Oct 25, 2022
Immersive Remix: "Fantaisie Impromptu No. 4 in C#min, Op. 66” by Carlos Hernandez
00:49:22

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.

Oct 18, 2022
Immersive Remix: "Your Rover is Here" by LP Kindred
00:39:16

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


 

 

Content advisory: explicit language, violence, terrorism

Oct 11, 2022
An Update! Plus Immersive Remix: "The Story We Used to Tell" by Shirley Jackson
00:34:18

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

Content advisory: violence, death

“The Story We Used to Tell” is from DARK TALES by Shirley Jackson, published by Penguin Classics, an imprint of Penguin Publishing Group, a division of Penguin Random House LLC.

Oct 04, 2022
Immersive Remix: "The Paper Menagerie" by Ken Liu
00:53:18

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. This story appears in Ken Liu's collection THE PAPER MENAGERIE AND OTHER STORIES, available now from Saga Press.

Content advisory: Hospitals, death of a parent

Apr 12, 2022
"Afterlife" by Stephen King
00:47:23

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


 

"Afterlife" appears in Stephen King's collection THE BAZAAR OF BAD DREAMS.

Content advisory: Descriptions of death, illness, sexual assault

Mar 01, 2022
"The Last Truth" by AnaMaria Curtis
00:57:34

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, at the cost of her own memory.

Feb 22, 2022
"Troll Bridge" by Terry Pratchett
00:38:14

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 in 1992. © Dunmanifestin Limited.

Feb 15, 2022
"John Dillinger and the Blind Magician" by Allison M. Dickson
00:49:25

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


 

Content advisory: Gunfire

Feb 08, 2022
"Open House on Haunted Hill" by John Wiswell
00:32:55

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


 

Content advisory: Brief discussion of death

Feb 01, 2022
"The Final Performance of the Amazing Ralphie" by Pat Cadigan
00:48:59

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

This story was originally published in AVATARS INC edited by Ann VanderMeer, and collected in THE YEAR'S BEST SCIENCE FICTION, VOL. 2 edited by Jonathan Strahan.

PLUS! With FIYAH Literary Magazine and Tor.com, we announce the winners of the LeVar Burton Reads writing contest!


Content advisory: hospice setting, death

Jan 25, 2022
Immersive Remix: "The Galactic Tourist Industrial Complex" by Tobias S. Buckell
00:42:09

Get a sneak peek of our our immersive sound! A cab driver spends an ordinary day ferrying passengers around Manhattan -- until an incident involving a wealthy alien tourist imperils his livelihood. Content advisory: alien death.

Jan 18, 2022
"The Placement Agency" by Tobias Buckell
00:40:24
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 OTHER STORIES, published by Fairwood Press. Content advisory: some discussion of murder/death
Jan 11, 2022
"To Jump is to Fall" by Stephen Graham Jones
00:32:43

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.

Content advisory: death

Jan 04, 2022
"Drones to Ploughshares" by Sarah Gailey
00:43:51

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

Dec 28, 2021
"The Usual Santas" by Mick Herron
00:38:23

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 collection DOLPHIN JUNCTION, published by Soho Press (US) and John Murray (UK), 2021.

Dec 21, 2021
"Different People" by Timothy Mudie
00:49:38

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 advisory: Discussion of death

Dec 14, 2021
"The Wishing Pool" by Tananarive Due
00:43:39

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 Tananarive, check out her works at tananarivedue.com and look for her new novel THE REFORMATORY and graphic novel THE KEEPER, both due out in 2022.


 

Content advisory: Depiction of dementia/illness, brief mention of death

Dec 07, 2021
Season 10 Announcement and a Q&A!
00:09:42

LeVar Burton Reads is back December 7th, featuring work from Tananarive Due, Stephen Graham Jones and Sarah Gailey, a winter holiday story, the winning entry of the LBR Writing Contest and much more! Plus LeVar answers some of your questions about making the podcast and gives out some tips to up your "reading aloud" game.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 30, 2021
Revisited (Halloween Edition!): "Singing on a Star" by Ellen Klages
00:49:55

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 Ellen's writing for adults and middle grade readers at ellenklages.com.
Content advisory: disappearance of a child

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oct 26, 2021
Revisited: "Welcome to Your Authentic Indian Experience TM" by Rebecca Roanhorse
00:56:34

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 novel TRAIL OF LIGHTNING, as well as BLACK SUN, the first installment of her 'Between Earth and Sky' series. You can preorder the next book, FEVERED STAR, right now. Check out rebeccaroanhorse.com for updates on her novels, comics, and television writing.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oct 19, 2021
Revisited: "The Paper Menagerie" by Ken Liu
00:49:30

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 PAPER MENAGERIE AND OTHER STORIES, available now from Saga Press.

Ken Liu's forthcoming novel, THE VEILED THRONE, is the third installment of THE DANDELION DYNASTY and will be available November 2nd from Saga Press.

Content advisory: Hospitals, death of a parent

Oct 12, 2021
"On the Lonely Shore" by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
00:39:05

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 Silvia Moreno-Garcia at silviamoreno-garcia.com.

Sep 07, 2021
"Tía Abuela's Face, Ten Ways" by Lisa M. Bradley
00:34:49

An anthropologist copes with the passing of her beloved tía abuela, experimenting with her own method of honoring her. This story was first published in SPECULATIVE FICTION FOR DREAMERS.

Content advisory: Death, surgery

Aug 31, 2021
"Shock of Birth" by Cadwell Turnbull
00:39:03

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 days to enter the LeVar Burton Reads Writing Contest! Check out www.levarburtonpodcast.com/contest for details.

Aug 24, 2021
"Words We Say Instead" by Brit E. B. Hvide
00:49:39

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

Content advisory: War

Submissions are now open for the LeVar Burton Reads Writing Contest! Check out www.levarburtonpodcast.com/contest for details.

Aug 17, 2021
"The Years of My Birth" by Louise Erdrich
00:46:01

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 be published by Harper on November 9th.

Content advisory: Adoption, medical issues, ableist language

Submissions are now open for the LeVar Burton Reads Writing Contest! Check out www.levarburtonpodcast.com/contest for details.

Aug 10, 2021
"You Perfect, Broken Thing" by C.L. Clark
00:40:07

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

Content advisory: Discussion of degenerative illness, death

Submissions are now open for the LeVar Burton Reads Writing Contest! Check out www.levarburtonpodcast.com/contest for details.

Aug 03, 2021
"The War of the Wall" by Toni Cade Bambara
00:32:43

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 www.levarburtonpodcast.com/contest for details.

Jul 27, 2021
"The Angel of Khan El-Khalili" by P. Djèlí Clark
00:52:17

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

This story first appeared in the anthology Clockwork Cairo: Steampunk Tales of Egypt. For more from the author, visit pdjeliclark.com.

Content advisory: Fire, hospitalization

Jul 20, 2021
"Milagroso" by Isabel Yap
00:46:15

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 appears in Isabel Yap's collection NEVER HAVE I EVER, published by Small Beer Press.

Jul 13, 2021
"Dark Spaces on the Map" by Anjali Sachdeva
00:48:06

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 past. Anjali Sachdeva's short fiction collection is ALL THE NAMES THEY USED FOR GOD.

Epigraph used by permission from How to Lie With Maps by Mark Monmonier, published by The University of Chicago Press. © 1991, 1996, 2018 by The University of Chicago. All rights reserved.

Content Advisory: Blood, intimation of assault/violence

Jul 06, 2021
"Jealous Husband Returns in Form of Parrot" by Robert Olen Butler
00:35:39

A man dies and finds himself reincarnated as a parrot.

This story appears in Robert Olen Butler's collection TABLOID DREAMS. His forthcoming novel, LATE CITY, will be published in September.

Content advisory: use of a slur

Jun 29, 2021
"The Bank of Burkina Faso" by Ekaterina Sedia
00:41:30

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 Ekaterina Sedia's collection MOSCOW BUT DREAMING.

Jun 22, 2021
Season 9 is Almost Here!
00:04:28

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...

Jun 15, 2021
"St. Valentine, St. Abigail, St. Brigid" by C.L. Polk
00:53:10

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 the true cost and sacrifice involved in magical requests.

Find more from the author at www.clpolk.com.

Content advisory: Violence

Apr 20, 2021
"Vaccine Season" by Hannu Rajaniemi
00:54:22

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 in the anthology Make Shift: Dispatches from the Post-Pandemic Future, edited by Gideon Lichfield and available for pre-order from The MIT Press.
Content advisory: Discussion of pandemics, near-drowning

Apr 13, 2021
"Getaway" by Nicole Kornher-Stace
00:49:34

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 Kornher-Stace at www.nicolekornherstace.com or on Twitter @wirewalking.


Content advisory: Gun violence, gore, death

Apr 06, 2021
"Salt" by Rosemary Melchior
00:34:41

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 Advisory: Death

Mar 30, 2021
"An Equal Share of the Bone" by Karen Osborne
00:38:41

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 Karen Osborne's work at www.karenosborne.com.

Content Advisory: Animal death

Mar 23, 2021
"Killer of Kings" by Anjali Sachdeva
00:45:15

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

"Killer of Kings" appears in Anjali Sachdeva's collection ALL THE NAMES THEY USED FOR GOD.

Mar 16, 2021
"Flyboys" by Tobias Wolff
00:56:03

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 Tobias Wolff's collection OUR STORY BEGINS, published by Vintage Books, and is available in audio from Blackstone Audio.

Content advisory: discussion of death

Mar 09, 2021
"The Regression Test" by Wole Talabi
00:41:07

A woman helps to test the artificial intelligence based on the mind of her mother, a brilliant thinker. "The Regression Test" appears in Wole Talabi's collection INCOMPLETE SOLUTIONS from Luna Press.

Mar 02, 2021
"Alluvial Deposits" by Percival Everett
00:50:27

A government contractor deals with everyday frustrations in a small town. "Alluvial Deposits" appears in Percival Everett's collection DAMNED IF I DO. Check out other titles from Graywolf Press, including WILD SWIMS and BRING ME THE HEAD OF QUENTIN TARANTINO, at graywolfpress.org.


Content advisory: racial slur, hateful language

Feb 23, 2021
"Daddy" by Damion Wilson
00:37:01

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

Content advisory: drug addiction, illness, death

Feb 16, 2021
"The Takeback Tango" by Rebecca Roanhorse
00:41:33

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 Books, a division of Penguin Random House, LLC, New York. Find more from Rebecca at www.rebeccaroanhorse.com.

Feb 09, 2021
"Silver Door Diner" by Bishop Garrison
00:49:00

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

Feb 02, 2021
Season 8... Coming Soon!
00:02:17

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, Bishop Garrison, Damion Wilson and more.

Jan 26, 2021
Nnedi Okorafor, Author of "Mother of Invention", Part 3
00:51:06

LeVar talks to Africanfuturist Nnedi Okorafor about the visceral nature of her writing, writing a beautiful and green future for the Niger Delta, and how human-AI relationships can feel like parent-child relationships. Plus, she'll tell us what she thinks happens after those final tense moments in "Mother of Invention".

Dec 01, 2020
"Mother of Invention" by Nnedi Okorafor, Part 2
00:35:38

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

Nov 24, 2020
"Mother of Invention" by Nnedi Okorafor, Part 1
00:41:30

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

Nov 17, 2020
Miniseries Coming November 17
00:01:45

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

Nov 10, 2020
"Little Man" by Michael Cunningham
00:51:46

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 Yuko Shimizu.
Text copyright © 2015 by Mare Vaporum Corp. Used by permission of Farrar, Straus and Giroux.
Reprinted by permission of HarperCollins Publishers Ltd, © 2015 by Mare Vaporum Corp

Oct 27, 2020
"The Story We Used to Tell" by Shirley Jackson
00:33:11

A recently widowed woman vanishes overnight.


Content advisory: violence, death

“The Story We Used to Tell” is from DARK TALES by Shirley Jackson, published by Penguin Classics, an imprint of Penguin Publishing Group, a division of Penguin Random House LLC.

Oct 20, 2020
"A Good Friday" by Barbara Jenkins
00:44:20

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

Oct 13, 2020
"Low Energy Economy" by Adrian Tchaikovsky
00:37:31

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

This story appears in the anthology CONSOLATION SONGS.

Oct 06, 2020
"Wherein Abigail Fields Recalls Her First Death and, Subsequently, Her Best Life" by Rebecca Roanhorse
00:45:44

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

Content Advisory: violence, death

Sep 29, 2020
"Dune Song" by Suyi Davies Okungbowa
00:49:57

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 Advisory: physical violence

Sep 22, 2020
"Madre Nuestra, Que Estás en Maracaibo" by Ana Hurtado
00:41:14

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

Sep 15, 2020
"Cricket" by Kenneth Yu
00:39:41

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

Sep 08, 2020
"Room for Rent" by Richie Narvaez
00:35:55

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 Science Fiction and Fantasy.

Content advisory: violence, death/dying

Sep 01, 2020
"The Nine Curves River" by R. F. Kuang
00:54:39

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

Content advisory: violence

Aug 25, 2020
"Your Rover is Here" by LP Kindred
00:38:47

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

Content advisory: explicit language, violence, terrorism

Aug 18, 2020
"Pockets" by Amal El-Mohtar
00:42:18

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.

Aug 11, 2020
A Conversation with James McBride (and News About Season 7!)
00:28:38

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" from our very first live show.

This virtual book tour stop was presented by Linda McLoughlin Figel of {pages} a bookstore, and by Eso Won Books. We suggest ordering your copy of James McBride's new novel, DEACON KING KONG, online from either of these fine independent booksellers!
www.pagesabookstore.com
www.esowonbookstore.com

Aug 04, 2020
"The Foster Portfolio" by Kurt Vonnegut
00:46:18

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

"The Foster Portfolio" is from WELCOME TO THE MONKEY HOUSE by Kurt Vonnegut. Copyright © 1968 by Kurt Vonnegut, used by permission of The Wylie Agency LLC.

Apr 14, 2020
"Recitatif" by Toni Morrison, Part 2
00:44:24

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

Content advisory: archaic/derogatory language

Apr 07, 2020
"Recitatif" by Toni Morrison, Part 1
00:38:19

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

Content advisory: archaic/derogatory language

Mar 31, 2020
"Let Those Who Would" by Genevieve Valentine
00:42:23

A dystopian society tackles fake news.

Content advisory: violence

Mar 24, 2020
"A Kiss with Teeth" by Max Gladstone
00:55:34

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 Tor.com.

Content advisory: references to violence, death

Mar 17, 2020
"Staying Behind" by Ken Liu
00:51:03

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 AND OTHER STORIES. It was first published in CLARKESWORLD in 2011.

Content advisory: death

Mar 10, 2020
"Skinwalker, Fast-Talker" by Darcie Little Badger
00:42:46

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

Mar 03, 2020
"End Game" by Nancy Kress
00:44:12

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.

Feb 25, 2020
"SPAM" by Savannah Burney
00:44:46

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

Feb 18, 2020
"As Worlds Collide" by Stephen Michell
00:47:06

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.

Feb 11, 2020
"Valedictorian" by N.K. Jemisin
00:54:13

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 BLACK FUTURE MONTH?

Content advisory: language

Feb 04, 2020
"Tideline" by Elizabeth Bear
00:45:41

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: Brief violence/combat, mentions of death

Jan 28, 2020
BONUS: Behind the Scenes and a Sneak Peek at Season 6!
00:13:44

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 Gladstone, Ken Liu and many more of your favorite (or soon-to-be favorite!) authors.

Jan 21, 2020
The Paris Review Podcast Returns
00:12:14

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 writers. Featuring readings and writings from Charlotte Rampling, Philip Roth, Jason Alexander, Jenny Slate, Devendra Banhart, Danez Smith, Sharon Olds, Lucille Clifton, Molly Ringwald, Salman Rushdie, and more!


Season 2 of The Paris Review Podcast is out NOW -- listen wherever you get your podcasts. More info at www.theparisreview.org/podcast.

Nov 06, 2019
"The Hofzinser Club" by Michael Chabon
00:53:48

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 Institute (www.aspenideas.org/podcast).

Oct 29, 2019
"The Specialist's Hat" by Kelly Link
00:50:20

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, 2001) and Kelly Link’s Pretty Monsters (Viking Books For Young Readers, 2008).



This episode is sponsored by Villains (www.parcast.com/VILLAINS) and Native (www.nativedeodorant.com code: LEVAR).

Oct 22, 2019
"Jump" by Cadwell Turnbull
00:31:21

An ordinary couple experiences an extraordinary event during a walk in the park. "Jump" was first published in LIGHTSPEED MAGAZINE. Cadwell Turnbull's debut novel is THE LESSON.

Oct 15, 2019
BONUS: Stories with Friends - Amanda Seales
00:47:35

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, giving them an excuse to talk about art, life philosophies, politics, and so much more. In this free episode, LeVar talks with Amanda Seales (HBO's Insecure, Small Doses) about Scholastic book fairs, Dorothy West's story "Mammy", and making space for intellectual conversation. Amanda's new book of essays is out October 22nd. It's called Small Doses: Potent Truths for Everyday Use. Find it at SmallDosesBook.com.


You can find "Mammy" in one of these collections:

https://www.amazon.com/Harlems-Glory-Black-Writing-1900-1950/dp/0674372697

https://www.amazon.com/Richer-Poorer-Dorothy-West/dp/0385471459

Oct 11, 2019
"The Water Museum" by Nisi Shawl
00:49:52

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. Content advisory: kidnapping and abduction

Oct 08, 2019
"The House on the Moon" by William Alexander
00:50:52

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)

Oct 01, 2019
"Tiger Baby" by JY Yang
00:34:19

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).

Sep 24, 2019
“Blur" by Carmen Maria Machado
00:41:18

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: explicit language, abuse

From the forthcoming collection A BRIEF AND FEARFUL STAR, to be published by Alfred A. Knopf, an imprint of The Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group, a division of Penguin Random House LLC.


This episode is sponsored by The Great Courses (www.thegreatcoursesplus.com/LEVAR) and Native (www.nativedeodorant.com code: LEVAR).

Sep 17, 2019
“Face Value” by Sean Williams
00:44:33

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).

Sep 10, 2019
"Small Medicine" by Genevieve Valentine
00:46:24

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 Life Lived podcast, and The Great Courses (www.thegreatcoursesplus.com/LEVAR).

Sep 03, 2019
"Cuisine des Mémoires" by N.K. Jemisin
00:48:24

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 MONTH?



This episode is sponsored by The Great Courses (www.thegreatcoursesplus.com/LEVAR).

Aug 27, 2019
"Shoggoths in Traffic" by Tobias S. Buckell
00:39:23

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 Collision



This episode is sponsored by The Great Courses (www.thegreatcoursesplus.com/LEVAR).

Aug 20, 2019
"The Simplest Equation" by Nicky Drayden
00:35:36

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 published in Space and Time Magazine.


This episode is sponsored by The Great Courses (www.thegreatcoursesplus.com/LEVAR) and Native (www.nativedeodorant.com code: LEVAR).

Aug 13, 2019
"L'Aquilone du Estrellas (The Kite of Stars)" by Dean Francis Alfar
00:40:14

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), Calm (www.calm.com/LEVAR), and Betterhelp (www.betterhelp.com/levar code: LEVAR).

Jun 18, 2019
"The Merchant and the Alchemist's Gate" Part 2 by Ted Chiang
00:48:12

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 Publishing Group, a division of Penguin Random House LLC.


This episode is sponsored by Penguin Random House (www.penguinrandomhouse.com/levar) and Betterhelp (www.betterhelp.com/levar code: LEVAR).

Jun 11, 2019
"The Merchant and the Alchemist's Gate" Part 1 by Ted Chiang
00:53:26

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 Ted Chiang, published by Penguin Random House Audio, an imprint of Penguin Publishing Group, a division of Penguin Random House LLC.


This episode is sponsored by Penguin Random House (www.penguinrandomhouse.com/levar) and Betterhelp (www.betterhelp.com/levar code: LEVAR).

Jun 05, 2019
"Flying Carpets" by Steven Millhauser
00:34:41

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 THROWER: AND OTHER STORIES, published by Crown in 1998.

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

May 28, 2019
"Toward Happy Civilization" by Samanta Schweblin
00:44:26

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 division of Penguin Random House LLC.


This episode is sponsored by Aunt Fannie's (www.auntfannies.com/summer code: LEVAR).

May 21, 2019
"The Galactic Tourist Industrial Complex" by Tobias S. Buckell
00:40:27

A cab driver spends an ordinary day ferrying passengers around Manhattan -- until an incident involving a wealthy alien tourist imperils his livelihood. Content advisory: alien death.



This episode is sponsored by ZipRecruiter (www.ziprecruiter.com/LEVAR) and Aunt Fannie's (www.auntfannies.com/summer code: LEVAR).

May 14, 2019
"Republica and Grau" by Daniel Alarcón
00:42:22

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 from THE KING IS ALWAYS ABOVE THE PEOPLE by Daniel Alarcón, published by Riverhead Books, an imprint of Penguin Publishing Group, a division of Penguin Random House LLC.



This episode is sponsored by Amazon Kindle (www.amazon.com/levarburton), Calm (www.calm.com/LEVAR), and Aunt Fannie's (www.auntfannies.com/summer code: LEVAR).

May 07, 2019
"Mister Hadj's Sunset Ride" by Saladin Ahmed
00:33:50

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


This episode is sponsored by Amazon Kindle (www.amazon.com/levarburton).

Apr 30, 2019
“The Best We Can” by Carrie Vaughn
00:46:04

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


This episode is sponsored by Amazon Kindle (www.amazon.com/levarburton).

Apr 23, 2019
"Kwoon" by Charles Johnson
00:45:06

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



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

Apr 16, 2019
"Free Jim's Mine" by Tananarive Due
00:55:15

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 Tananarive Due's collection GHOST SUMMER: STORIES.

Apr 09, 2019
"Miracle" by Tope Folarin
00:43:08

A congregation eagerly anticipates the healing powers of a blind prophet. "Miracle" © 2019 by Tope Folarin. From Harvard's Transition magazine, Issue 109, Fall 2012.


This episode is sponsored by ZipRecruiter (www.ziprecruiter.com/LEVAR).

Apr 02, 2019
LIVE! in Boston: "Mono No Aware" by Ken Liu
01:02:25

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 MENAGERIE AND OTHER STORIES. Ken Liu's new anthology, BROKEN STARS, is out this month.


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

Feb 12, 2019
LIVE! in New Jersey: "Driftglass" by Samuel R. Delany
01:00:49

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 contained in AYE, AND GOMORRAH AND OTHER STORIES, Vintage Books, 2003.

Feb 05, 2019
LIVE! in DC: "A Dark Night" by Edward P. Jones
00:50:38

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 Cuffy. "A Dark Night" appears in Edward P. Jones' collection LOST IN THE CITY.

Jan 29, 2019
LIVE! in Dallas: "In the City of Martyrs" by Bonnie Jo Stufflebeam
00:50:48

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).

Jan 22, 2019
LIVE! in Toronto: "Four Stations in His Circle" by Austin Clarke
00:54:44

Language Advisory: This story contains adult language. An immigrant from Barbados strives to shake off his past, buy his dream house, and climb the ranks in Toronto. From the collection CHOOSING HIS COFFIN. Recorded live at the Hot Docs Podcast Festival, with musical accompaniment by Dieufaite Charles and conversation with Itah Sadu.

Jan 15, 2019
LIVE! in Atlanta: "The Vishakanya's Choice" by Roshani Chokshi
00:51:13

After spending years in isolation with her vishakanya sisters, a poison maiden is given her first deadly mission. © 2015 Roshani Chokshi, as first appeared on BookSmugglers.com. Recorded live at Variety Playhouse in Atlanta, with musical accompaniment by Anand Vyas.

Jan 08, 2019
LIVE! in Austin: "Asymmetry" by Kendra Fortmeyer
00:46:52

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.

Dec 18, 2018
LIVE! in Brooklyn: "Playing Nice with God's Bowling Ball" by N.K. Jemisin
00:57:16

In this fantastical police procedural, detectives are perplexed when a young boy confesses to a murder. "Playing Nice with God's Bowling Ball" was originally published in the August 2008 issue of Jim Baen’s Universe. N. K. Jemisin's new collection is HOW LONG 'TIL BLACK FUTURE MONTH?


This episode is sponsored by Mythology podcast (www.parcast.com/MYTHOLOGY).

Dec 11, 2018
"Morning Child" by Gardner Dozois
00:31:40

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 sponsored by Bona Floor Cleaners (www.bona.com), Sierra Club (www.BeyondCoal.org/stories), The Great Courses (www.thegreatcoursesplus.com/LEVAR), and Calm (www.calm.com/LEVAR).

Oct 09, 2018
"Yiwu" by Lavie Tidhar
00:53:04

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 (www.thegreatcoursesplus.com/LEVAR), and Sierra Club (www.beyondcoal.org/stories).

Oct 02, 2018
"Singing on a Star" by Ellen Klages
00:48:41

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 sponsored by Sierra Club (www.beyondcoal.org/stories), Bona Floor Cleaners (www.bona.com), Calm (www.calm.com/LEVAR), and The Great Courses (www.thegreatcoursesplus.com/LeVar).

Sep 25, 2018
"The Cell Phones" by Karen E. Bender
00:30:33

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


This episode is sponsored by Bona Floor Cleaners (www.bona.com), The Great Courses (www.thegreatcoursesplus.com/LeVar), and the Sierra Club (www.beyondcoal.org/stories).

Sep 18, 2018
"Jackalope Wives" by Ursula Vernon
00:49:46

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 (www.beyondcoal.org/stories), Bona Floor Cleaners (www.bona.com), Calm (www.calm.com/LEVAR), and The Great American Read.

Sep 11, 2018
"Fyrewall" by Stefani Cox
00:42:36

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 episode is sponsored by The Great Courses (www.thegreatcoursesplus.com/levar) and The Great American Read.

Sep 04, 2018
"Fantaisie Impromptu No. 4 in C#min, Op. 66” by Carlos Hernandez
00:48:38

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 (www.thegreatcoursesplus.com/LEVAR) and Google Play (g.co/play/levar).

Aug 28, 2018
"Multo" by Samuel Marzioli
00:39:05

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 and use promo code 'LEVAR'.


This episode is sponsored by Google Play (www.g.co/play/levar).

Aug 21, 2018
"Fires" by Rick Bass
00:41:46

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 Bass, published by Little, Brown & Company. 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).



Aug 14, 2018
"The Last Cheng Beng Gift" by Jaymee Goh
00:34:51

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 and use promo code 'LEVAR'.



This episode is sponsored by Google Play (g.co/play/levar) and Hungryroot (www.hungryroot.com code: LEVAR).

Aug 07, 2018
"Sea Girls" by Daniel Wallace
00:45:17

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 stitcherpremium.com/levar and use promo code 'LEVAR'.



This episode is sponsored by Hungry Root (www.hungryroot.com code: LEVAR) and Google Play (g.co/play/levar).

Jul 31, 2018
"Welcome to Your Authentic Indian Experience TM" by Rebecca Roanhorse
00:54:52

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 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).

Jul 24, 2018
LIVE! in Portland: "The Fliers of Gy" by Ursula K. Le Guin
01:01:03

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 Guin's collection THE UNREAL AND THE REAL: SELECTED STORIES, VOLUME TWO: OUTER SPACE, INNER LANDS. With musical accompaniment by Marisa Anderson, and featuring a conversation with writer and activist Walidah Imarisha about social justice and the legacy of Ursula K. Le Guin. This episode is brought to you by KiwiCo (www.kiwico.com/LEVAR) and Hungryroot (www.hungryroot.com code: LEVAR).


Jun 19, 2018
LIVE! in Seattle: "Black Betty" by Nisi Shawl
01:01:57

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 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).

Jun 05, 2018
LIVE! in Los Angeles: "Money Tree" by Nalo Hopkinson
00:45:47

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 featuring a conversation with the author. This story appears in Nalo Hopkinson's collection SKIN FOLK.

May 22, 2018
LIVE! in San Francisco: "As Good as New" by Charlie Jane Anders
01:04:09

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 conversation with Charlie Jane Anders. This story appears in Anders' collection SIX MONTHS, THREE DAYS, FIVE OTHERS.

May 08, 2018
LIVE! in Chicago: "The Winds of Harmattan" by Nnedi Okorafor
01:01:01

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 with Nnedi Okorafor. This story appears in Okorafor's collection KABU KABU.

Apr 24, 2018
"Childfinder" by Octavia Butler
00:40:07

A telepath uses her skills to mentor children with psionic ability. "Childfinder" is available in e-book format in the collection UNEXPECTED STORIES, published by Open Road Media. The story is copyright Ernestine Walker-Zadnick. Thanks to our presenting sponsor Audible. Start your free trial and get a free audiobook at audible.com/levar. And thanks to Fictional. Find them at apple.fictional.fm.



Apr 03, 2018
"A Fable with Slips of White Paper Spilling from the Pockets" by Kevin Brockmeier
00:33:44

An ordinary man finds himself unexpectedly in possession of an extraordinary power. This story appears in Kevin Brockmeier's collection THE VIEW FROM THE SEVENTH LAYER. Thanks to our presenting sponsor Audible. Start your free trial and get a free audiobook at audible.com/levar.

Mar 27, 2018
"The 5:22" by George Harrar
00:37:18

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 (audible.com/levar) and Tripping.com (www.tripping.com/LEVAR).

Mar 20, 2018
"My Dear You" by Rachel Khong
00:41:42

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 get a free audiobook at audible.com/levar.

Mar 13, 2018
"The Great Wide World Over There" by Ray Bradbury
00:48:58

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 SUN. Thanks to our presenting sponsor Audible. Start your free trial and get a free audiobook at audible.com/levar.

Mar 06, 2018
"Different Kinds of Darkness" by David Langford
00:43:10

A group of children form a secret society around a mysterious and powerful artifact. This story appears in David Langford's collection DIFFERENT KINDS OF DARKNESS. This episode is brought to you by Audible (audible.com/levar) and Tripping.com (www.tripping.com/LEVAR).

Feb 27, 2018
"Furry Night" by Joan Aiken
00:46:33

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 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 20, 2018
"Mrs. Perez" by Oscar Casares
00:45:18

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 Oscar Casares' collection BROWNSVILLE: STORIES from Back Bay Books. Thanks to our presenting sponsor Audible. Start your free trial and get a free audiobook at audible.com/levar.

Feb 06, 2018
"The Baboon War" by Nnedi Okorafor
00:43:41

A group of schoolgirls have a disturbing and life-altering encounter with the animal kingdom. "The Baboon War" appears in Nnedi Okorafor's collection KABU KABU. Thanks to our presenting sponsor Audible. Start your free trial and get a free audiobook at audible.com/levar.

Feb 06, 2018
"Unassigned Territory" by Stephanie Powell Watts
00:42:40

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 HarperCollins Publishers. Thanks to our presenting sponsor Audible. Start your free trial and get a free audiobook at audible.com/levar.

Jan 30, 2018
"The Truth About Owls" by Amal El-Mohtar
00:48:39

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 audible.com/levar.

Jan 23, 2018
"Repairing the World" by John Chu
00:48:29

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 audiobook at audible.com/levar.

Jan 16, 2018
Bonus Episode: "Goat" by James McBride
01:08:20

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 collection FIVE CARAT SOUL, available now from Riverhead Books.

Oct 24, 2017
"No Man's Guns" by Elmore Leonard
00:46:27

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 Man's Guns" by Elmore Leonard. Copyright © 1975, 2004 Elmore Leonard, used by permission of The Wylie Agency LLC and of William Morrow, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers. Thanks to our presenting sponsor Audible. Start your free trial and get a free audiobook at audible.com/levar.

Sep 05, 2017
"The Paper Menagerie" by Ken Liu
00:49:45

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 PAPER MENAGERIE AND OTHER STORIES, available now from Saga Press. Thanks to our presenting sponsor Audible. Start your free trial and get a free audiobook at audible.com/levar.

Aug 29, 2017
"Navigators" by Mike Meginnis
00:42:58

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 presenting sponsor Audible. Start your free trial and get a free audiobook at audible.com/levar.

Aug 22, 2017
"1000-Year-Old Ghosts" by Laura Chow Reeve
00:31:55

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 new anthology PEN AMERICA BEST DEBUT SHORT STORIES 2017. Thanks to our presenting sponsor Audible. Start your free trial and get a free audiobook at audible.com/levar.

Aug 15, 2017
Bonus Episode: A Conversation with Lesley Nneka Arimah
00:27:28

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 free trial and get a free audiobook at audible.com/levar.

Aug 08, 2017
"The Second Bakery Attack" by Haruki Murakami
00:41:34

Cursed with an unbearable hunger, a newlywed couple goes to drastic measures to break its spell. "The Second Bakery Attack" appears in Haruki Murakami's collection THE ELEPHANT VANISHES from Vintage Books, and is available as an audiobook from Penguin Random House Audio. Thanks to our presenting sponsor Audible. Start your free trial and get a free audiobook at audible.com/levar.

Aug 01, 2017
"Chivalry" by Neil Gaiman
00:40:29

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 collection SMOKE AND MIRRORS: SHORT FICTIONS AND ILLUSIONS from William Morrow, which is available on Audible. Thanks to our presenting sponsor Audible. Start your free trial and get a free audiobook at audible.com/levar.

Jul 25, 2017
"Graham Greene" by Percival Everett
00:49:37

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 HALF AN INCH OF WATER, available from Graywolf Press.Thanks to our presenting sponsor Audible. Start your free trial and get a free audiobook at audible.com/levar.

Jul 18, 2017
"What It Means When a Man Falls From the Sky" by Lesley Nneka Arimah
00:45:06

A mathematician has discovered a formula that explains the universe and makes it possible to manipulate human bodies and emotions. "What It Means When a Man Falls From the Sky" is the title story of Lesley Nneka Arimah's collection from Riverhead Books.


Thanks to our presenting sponsor Audible. Start your free trial and get a free audiobook at audible.com/levar.

Jul 11, 2017
"Empty Places" Part Two by Richard Parks
00:33:14

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 Places" was collected in FANTASY: THE BEST OF THE YEAR (2005).

Thanks to our presenting sponsor Audible. Start your free trial and get a free audiobook at audible.com/levar.

Jul 04, 2017
"Empty Places" Part One by Richard Parks
00:45:08

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 along the way. "Empty Places" was collected in FANTASY: THE BEST OF THE YEAR (2005).

Thanks to our presenting sponsor Audible. Start your free trial and get a free audiobook at audible.com/levar.

Jun 27, 2017
"The Lighthouse Keeper" by Daisy Johnson
00:30:44

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. Thanks to our presenting sponsor Audible. Start your free trial and get a free audiobook at audible.com/levar.

Jun 20, 2017
"Kin" by Bruce McAllister
00:33:14

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 ANIMALS.

Thanks to our presenting sponsor Audible. Start your free trial and get a free audiobook at audible.com/levar

Jun 13, 2017