Ezra Edmond, an author with a passion for storytelling and diverse perspectives, has created a picture book chronicling his childhood experiences with television personality and literacy advocate LeVar Burton.
The book, “My Friend Levar,” follows young Ezra’s imaginative adventures with Burton as they explore stories together, from playing in snow to decorating eggs and sharing pancakes with Paul Bunyan.
Edmond will be discussing the book during an event at Vroman’s Bookstore on Saturday, Nov. 30, 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Through these imaginative encounters, Ezra and LeVar discover new worlds, cultivate curiosity, and embrace the joy of reading, leading to a pivotal moment when Ezra meets Burton in real life.
Edmond, who brings his experience as an animation producer and director with big ideas to the project, collaborated with illustrator Jenna Nahyun Chung, who incorporates Korean and American cultural elements in her artwork.
The creator’s previous work includes the animated short film “Blewish,” which appeared in multiple film festivals and explored themes of Black and Jewish identity.
Beyond his creative work, Edmond enjoys traveling, sampling new cuisines, sharing stories, and spending time with his dog, Sherman, and loved ones.
The story captures how young Ezra discovers his friends also know LeVar from television, highlighting Burton’s widespread influence on a generation of young viewers.
The book celebrates the transformative power of reading and imagination, themes that characterized Burton’s impactful years in children’s television programming.
Vroman’s Bookstore is at 695 E. Colorado Blvd. in Pasadena.
