It’s 2024. For this year’s Black History Month, the theme is African Americans and the Arts. So, I thought I’d write a little something to pay respect to the actor Levar Burton, best known for his roles as Kunta Kinte in Roots, Lt Commander Geordi La Forge in Star Trek: Next Generations and host of the Reading Rainbow. For decades, Mr Burton has been a promoter of literacy and reading, the main reason I am a big fan. For years, he’s been a positive force in the industry of the arts and media.
Burton is also an author, and his novel was cited last year by portalist.com in their article 10 Adult Sci-Fi Books That Grown-Up Readers Won’t Be Able to Put Down – very impressive. Honestly, I was not aware of this title or that Burton authored a novel, until I read this article. Being a fan, I got the title and read it immediately and wasn’t disappointed. The novel, Aftermath, first published in 1997, is an alternate history science fiction that takes place in the 2010’s and concentrates on four characters, strangers of different backgrounds, from different locations, that are brought together by circumstance and a vision of the future.
The novel begins in 2010, when the first black president of the United States is elected and then assassinated soon after, triggering violence and civil race-war that tears apart society to dystopian levels. Our first character, Leon Cane, lives in Atlanta and once worked for NASA as a scientist. Unfortunate turn of events and tragedy, leads him to lose his job and family, and is he now homeless, living on the streets. On his way to his hideout one evening, he runs into a woman being chased in an alley. She slips something to him, and tells him to run, before she is caught and carried away.
Dr Rene Reynolds, also from Atlanta, is a research scientist. Her Neuro-Enhancer treatment not only cures Parkinson’s disease but also helps the body fight and eliminate cancers by enhancing brain activity. She’s looking for funding to expand her project. After sharing the promising aspects of her research with the science community and possible investors, she is kidnapped by unknown assailants and brought to Chicago. She runs into Leon, a total stranger, before being taken and slips him vital micro computer chips for her research. (One thing she keeps secret from everyone – prolonged use of the enhancer produces the side effect of telepathic abilities in some individuals – her for one) Using her power, she mentally calls for help.
Amy Ladue lost her family when the city of St Louis was destroyed in a devastating earthquake caused by the shift of the New Madrid fault. She does not remember her past and lives on what’s left of the devastated streets of St Louis. Amy believes her mother is still alive and tries to find her after hearing her distant cries.
The fourth character in the chain of the story is Lakota Medicine Man, Jacob Fire Cloud, who sits atop a hill in South Dakota praying for guidance for his people, the nation and the world. He receives a vision and knows what he has to do – go to Chicago to help the White Buffalo Woman, a legend to his people.
Driven by instinct, circumstances and a voice that means something different to each stranger, these four people are brought together. When they meet, their purpose for themselves and the future of humanity becomes clear. What develops and unfolds is a powerful, disturbing and thrilling read, with a thoughtful moral message.
The fact that Aftermath was published in 1997 and Burton presents a near-future United States in the 2010’s with the first elected Black president, was just prophetic. This science fiction was a great read from beginning to end, with well woven storylines and relatable characters. I’m surprised Burton hasn’t published more. The good news – Burton recently announced that he will be publishing a memoir in 2026 and a book on the importance of reading in 2028. In the meantime, give this title, Aftermath by Levar Burton, a read and check out his podcast, Levar Burton Reads, where he reads short stories.
Levar Burton has influenced so many and children and young people over the years and has inspired and made me proud to be an avid reader. The way he talks about literacy, reading and the written word with such enthusiasm and excitement is infectious. Language arts rocks guys – Thanks in part to Levar Burton’s contribution!!