LeVar Burton , to Host National Book Awards.
NPR reports that LeVar Burton will replace
Drew Barrymore as the host of the
2023 National Book Awards.
It's an honor to return as host
of the biggest night for books,
especially in a moment when
the freedom to read is at risk, LeVar Burton, via NPR.
The actor and podcaster, who
has long been an advocate for reading,
hosted the ceremony in 2019 as well.
The actor and podcaster, who
has long been an advocate for reading,
hosted the ceremony in 2019 as well.
Originally, Drew Barrymore was scheduled to host the
2023 show, but the offer was rescinded after she said
she would bring back her talk show amid ongoing strikes.
The National Book Awards is an
evening dedicated to celebrating
the power of literature, and the
incomparable contributions
of writers to our culture. , National Book Foundation statement, via NPR.
Our commitment is to ensure
that the focus of the Awards
remains on celebrating writers
and books, and we are grateful
to Ms. Barrymore and her team for
their understanding in this situation, National Book Foundation statement, via NPR.
Burton is best known for his 'Star Trek'
role as Geordi La Forge in addition to
hosting 'Reading Rainbow' on PBS.
In 1977, Burton had his breakout role playing
Kunta Kinte in the television adaptation of
'Roots,' based on Alex Haley's 1976 novel.
In 1977, Burton had his breakout role playing
Kunta Kinte in the television adaptation of
'Roots,' based on Alex Haley's 1976 novel.
Currently, Burton hosts the
'LeVar Burton Reads' podcast, reading
short fiction by different authors.
Earlier this month, the National Book Awards announced
the finalists for this year, with the winners to be
revealed at the ceremony held on November 15