Program Overview
Modeled after our long-running, elementary-focused Reading Rock Stars program, Real Reads aims to foster a love of reading in middle school, high school, and young adult students by personally introducing them to renowned authors and their books.
At each Real Reads event, students hear from a featured writer about their creative journey, writing process, and inspiration. Students also have the opportunity to ask questions and share their thoughts with the author, and they each receive a signed copy of the author’s book. 6,326 students have been served by the program since its inception in 2017.
Real Reads Alum
Previous Real Reads authors include Angie Thomas, Jason Reynolds, Jacqueline Woodson, Nic Stone, Matt Mendez, Kwame Alexander, Erika Sánchez, Julissa Arce, Marcelo Hernandez Castillo, Elizabeth Acevedo, José M. Hernández, Sergío Troncoso, Emmanuel Acho, Kalynn Bayron, Jasmine Warga, Celia C. Pérez, Julian Randall, Omar Epps, Rubén Degollado, Derrick Barnes, Nicole Chen, Carmen Tafolla, Héctor Tobar, Jade Adia, Daniel Chacón, Mark Oshiro, Tony Weaver, Jr., Chanel Miller, and Yamile Saied Méndez.
Program Photos
Inspire the Next Generation of Readers
Your support helps us bring incredible authors and life-changing books to middle and high school students through Real Reads. Together, we can foster a lifelong love of reading and creativity.