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. 

Previous Real Reads authors include Jason ReynoldsJacqueline WoodsonAngie ThomasNic StoneErika SánchezMatt MendezKalynn BayronSergio TroncosoJulian RandallCelia C. PérezRubén DegolladoKwame Alexander,  Jose Hernandez, Elizabeth Acevedo, Derrick Barnes, and Héctor Tobar.


4,920

Students Served since 2017



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.