Read. Write. Rise! Behind the Book’s Annual Benefit
Every child deserves to read with confidence, write with purpose, and rise to their vast potential. Join us on Tuesday, May 5th, 2026 to make it happen.
Save $100 with each ticket reserved before April 1st!
Read. Write. Rise! - Join the power and purpose of Behind the Book.
You're invited to an unforgettable evening in support of students who are finding their voices — and the programs that make it possible.
Come for the cause. Stay for the party. The night features a menu by celebrity chef Mina Newman, signature cocktails, an open bar, and dancing. We'll celebrate three extraordinary honorees: National Book Award–winning author Colum McCann; Hachette Book Group and its Raising Readers initiative, championed by spokesperson Reese Witherspoon; and the New York Society Library.
Save $100 with each ticket reserved before April 1st! You can also sponsor an educator to attend. Educator sponsorships are 100% tax-deductible.
View our sponsorship benefits and click above to purchase a sponsorship, or contact Lilajane@behindthebook.org to discuss your wishes today!
100% of all donations will support Behind the Book’s transformative literacy programs in New York City. 🚀
Honorees
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Hachette Book Group
Hachette Book Group, featuring their Raising Readers initiative championed by spokesperson, Reese Witherspoon
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Colum McCann
Colum McCann, National Book Award-Winning author of Let the Great World Spin and Twist
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The New York Society Library
The New York Society Library, New York City's oldest library, founded in 1754
Time, Date, and Location
Tuesday, May 5th, 2026
Doors open at 6:00 PM
Program starts promptly at 7:00 PM
The Edison Ballroom
240 West 47th Street
Conveniently located in Midtown’s Theater District
An Award-Winning Menu
Celebrity chef Mina Newman is the creative force behind Edison Ballroom’s award-winning menu. ★ Before joining the Edison Ballroom team, Mina served as the chef of Drew Nieporent’s Layla and managed several restaurants, becoming one of the first women chefs to attain superstar status.
Other Ways You Can Contribute
Thank an Educator with a Sponsored Ticket
Purchase tickets here to sponsor an educator’s attendance. It’s a meaningful way to say thank you to our everyday heroes serving New York City’s students.
You’ll see “educator ticket” as one of our options on the ticket page. Educator sponsorships are 100% tax-deductible.
Can’t Make It? You Can Still Make a Difference
Your generosity today means that students tomorrow will have the tools to read, write, and rise. Support our mission today - every donation means so much! All donations are 100% tax-deductible.
Become a Corporate or Individual Sponsor
Sponsorship packages include reserved VIP seating, signed book copies by Honoree Colum McCann, and a Meet & Greet with Honorees.
View our sponsorship benefits and click above to purchase a sponsorship, or contact Lilajane@behindthebook.org to discuss your wishes!
