Mission

Behind the Book works directly in New York City public schools, providing rich, innovative literacy programs in urban classrooms. Behind the Book identifies books that speak to pre-K to 12th-grade students, then partners with teachers to create immersive curriculum units that bring the authors of those books into the classroom. Through a series of workshops, authors discuss their book and teach a genre of writing, encouraging students to see themselves as readers and writers.

What We Do

Behind the Book is a school-based literacy non-profit that inspires children and young adults to love reading. Working with students in pre-K through 12th grade, we bring accomplished authors and their books into individual classrooms to teach a genre of writing and guide students in creating their own original work. Our rich, innovative programs, which are part of the class curricula and meet the Common Core Learning Standards, rely on volunteers who serve as writing, research, and art coaches who engage and support students as they work.