First Book Blog

First Book and Penguin Young Readers Feature Last Chance Live! Debut Author Helena Haywoode Henry for Lively Discussions with Educators and Students

Posted in: Press Room

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Washington, D.C., October 16, 2025 — First Book, the national nonprofit that furthers educational opportunities for children in low-income communities, and Penguin Young Readers are giving educators and students the opportunity to engage with author Helena Haywoode Henry about her groundbreaking new young adult novel, Last Chance... Read more

Community Spotlight: Building Support Beyond the Classroom 

Posted in: First Book Community Highlight, Impact Stories

A small, Title I elementary school located in Columbia, Maryland, stands as an environment where every child feels supported, seen, and excited to learn. As one of the smallest schools in Howard County, almost all 300 of its students live within walking distance. At the heart of this community is... Read more

First Book and One Word at a Time to Host Kwame Alexander’s National Literacy Pep Rally on September 16

Posted in: Press Room

Free Virtual Event for Children, Families, and Educators Celebrates National Literacy Month Washington, D.C. – Sept. 10, 2025 – The nonprofits First Book and One Word at a Time are joining forces to host a high-energy, nationwide virtual Literacy Pep Rally on Tuesday, September 16 at 1:00 p.m. ET, led... Read more

KPMG U.S. Foundation President Anita Whitehead Appointed to First Book Board of Directors

Posted in: Press Room

Washington, D.C. – Sept. 9, 2025 – First Book, the national nonprofit dedicated to furthering educational opportunity for children in low-income communities, has appointed Anita Whitehead, the president and chair of the KPMG U.S. Foundation (KPMG), to its Board of Directors. Anita’s career at KPMG spans more than 20 years.... Read more

How First Book and the LEGO Group are Reimagining Education

Posted in: Our Partners, Thought Leadership

This blog features an interview with David Pallash, Director of Learning Through Play – Social Responsibility at the LEGO Group. Drawing on his expertise in using play to inspire learning and strengthen social impact, David offers insights from his work at the intersection of education and corporate responsibility. Young people... Read more

Community Spotlight: Empowering Students Through Books and History 

Posted in: First Book Community Highlight, Impact Stories

In Valdosta, Georgia, where 100% of schools qualify for Title I funding, educators are finding creative ways to inspire students. Ra’Shuna, a dedicated 5th grade teacher and First Book member, is bringing engaging books into her classroom, starting discussions, and fostering a love for reading.   Challenges in the Community  With... Read more

First Book, Audemars Piguet, and Ashoka Announce 2025-2026 Community Changemaker Cohort

Posted in: Our Partners

We’re excited to announce the cohort of Community Changemakers—eight incredible teams from across the DC and Chicago metro areas who are turning bold ideas into real change for their schools and communities. Each team has been selected for their powerful vision, creativity, and deep commitment to youth-led impact. With $10,000... Read more

First Book Names Libby Doggett as Chairman of the Board; Sharon Price John Appointed to the First Book Board; Andrew Roberts Joins First Book Advisory Council

Posted in: Press Room

Pictured from left to right: Sharon Price John, Libby Doggett, Andrew Roberts. Washington, D.C. – July 14, 2025 – First Book, the national nonprofit dedicated to furthering educational opportunity for children in low-income communities, named early childhood education leader Libby Doggett as chairman of the Board of Directors. In addition,... Read more

Tata Sons North America and First Book Distribute 35,000+ books to New Jersey Communities

Posted in: Press Room

Bolstering classrooms with high-quality books, supporting local educators, and employee volunteerism on display at Jaguar Land Rover HQ MAHWAH, N.J. (June 6, 2025) — This week, Tata Sons North America and First Book will distribute more than 35,000 brand-new books to educators from New Jersey and surrounding areas. Nearly 500... Read more

SONIC Launches Sweet Topped Lemonades with the Help of Summer’s Favorite Authors

Posted in: Press Room

Available early in the SONIC App starting May 27 and at locations nationwide on June 2, every sip supports local schools and pairs perfectly with any summer read or adventure   This summer, SONIC is bringing main character energy with a refreshing new lemonade lineup, teaming up with three of the most talked-about... Read more