Kids Solve Mysteries with Help From Friendly Ghost: New Show Promotes Literacy

The most intriguing aspect about Spirit Scribe, the new PBS children’s show, is its focus on reading. In fact, all of the episodes aired so far feature elements of the written word that bolster the plot. The exciting storylines compel children to read in an attempt to keep pace, with the characters, in solving that episode’s mystery. This, of course, is by design.

Autumn Blevins, 12, who plays Lexi Fransen on the show, echoes the educational merits of the program. “It’s done in a really fun way. Kids are able to see what Spirit Scribe is writing on the screen. They can follow along and feel like they’re part of the team.”

Blevins was bullied for being in Special Education classes last year and this experience helps her relate to those struggling academically. “My learning disability is more in Math than reading but, yeah, this show is made for everyone. It doesn’t matter the reading level you’re on. That’s why Spirit Scribe’s messages are on the screen so long. Everyone gets a chance to read it.”

The production is the most ambitious for PBS since the creation of Sesame Street. Most of the $20 million budget is reserved for the special effects that populate each episode. Executive producer, Howard Fransen, praises the show’s technical qualities. “It holds up well against other shows in the fantasy genre. Considering that this show is for children, that’s an impressive accomplishment.”

The show was in trial development for eighteen months while parents, teachers and literacy advocates debated what aspects to include in the program. For instance, the setting in Brooklyn was agreed upon to create a realistic background for the characters to interact in (despite the fantastical scenarios).

“This isn’t Game of Thrones.” Blevins jokes.

Further, the diversity of the cast and realistic sounding dialouge ensures that children will identify with the show.

“Absolutetly. These are real kids and that’s why the series is so popular.” Samuel Thomas, 14, who plays Jason Jones, stresses. “It’s very grounded so when the ghost stuff comes into play, it’s not so jarring. Kids are able to suspend their disbelief.”

“We’re really normal. Not like most kids on television.” Blevins agrees. “I would watch it.”

The show, about to begin shooting its second season, has received praise from children and parents alike. Ratings remain strong in its early afternoon timeslot.

“We’re very gratified and humbled by the success and outpouring of support.” Fransen says. “The primary motivation was to increase literacy in children and, if we can accomplish even a little bit of that, I’d say this entire enterprise was worth the effort.”