First Book Blog

Kwame Alexander Q&A: Poetry Provides Possibilities

Posted in: Author Voices

We recently had the opportunity to talk with author Kwame Alexander about how poetry can draw a reluctant reader into a lifelong love of books and the creative process behind his book, “The Crossover,” awarded the 2015 Newbery Medal for Most Distinguished Contribution to American Literature for Children. The first thing we noticed... Read more

Happy National Reading Month!

Posted in: Archive

March is National Reading Month, and the educators and programs leaders we serve hope their kids will develop a love of reading that lasts a lifetime. 93 percent of respondents in a recent First Book survey* hope their kids will gain a lifelong love of reading from the books they... Read more

Books to Start A Dialogue About Disabilities

Posted in: For Educators

Today’s guest blogger is Leslie Anido, a special needs teacher in California. She first connected with First Book as a member of long-time partner Pi Beta Phi Fraternity. She now receives books and resources for the children she serves through First Book. “Books have helped our students look beyond their... Read more

Our Five Favorite Books This February

Posted in: Our Bookshelf

This month on Five First Book Favorites you’ll find books that help kids understand civil rights and fair wages, explore different cultures… or even explore the moon! For PreK – 1st (Ages 2-6) Take Me Out To The Yakyu By Aaron Meshon The narrator of this delightful book is a... Read more

Creating Strong Readers with the Wrestlemania Reading Challenge

Posted in: Archive

Do you know how to exercise your brain? By reading, of course! First Book has teamed up with WWE to promote the importance of reading through the WWE Wrestlemania Reading Challenge.  WWE Superstars and Divas are on the road visiting schools and showing kids throughout the country the power and... Read more

Q&A with Mary Mazzio: Underwater Dreams documentary filmmaker

Posted in: Author Voices

We had the privilege of speaking with Mary Mazzio – an award-winning filmmaker and creator of Underwater Dreams, a documentary film chronicling the inspirational story of four teenage boys, each the son of Mexican immigrants, who enter a sophisticated robotics competition and defeat the likes of engineering powerhouse MIT. In addition to... Read more

5 Books to Celebrate Black History Month

Posted in: Our Bookshelf

February is Black History Month and to celebrate we’re sharing five of our favorite books that honor the history and legacy of African Americans. If you work with kids in need, you can find these and other great titles to celebrate Black History Month on the First Book Marketplace. Wilma... Read more

40,000 Books for Kids In Syracuse

Posted in: Archive

“So many of our kids have access to books at the library, but rarely do they have a book of their own.  In many homes, a book would represent a real luxury item.” – Kevin Ahern, President, Syracuse Teacher’s Association With 85 percent of students in the school district eligible... Read more

Our Favorite Books for January

Posted in: Our Bookshelf

It’s a new year, and that means we have more glorious books to rave about!  This month’s picks will spark creativity, help kids understand the experiences of others and take them on journeys to secret underground caves. For Pre-K to 1st Grade (Ages 1 – 6) Not a Box written... Read more

Disney Imagicademy App Available for Free!

Posted in: Archive

Do you work with kids in need? We’ve got great news for you! Our friends at Disney recently launched an innovative learning experience that encourages kids to learn by interacting with their favorite Disney characters and stories – inspiring a lifelong love of learning and creativity. The app and tools... Read more