Thanks to the generous support of sponsors, the inaugural Book Bash enabled First Book to bring more than 28,000 new books to children throughout Pennsylvania. Compelled by these results and by the alarming national statistics on literacy, the host committee pledged to broaden the 2009 Book Bash to achieve national impact.

Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter reads with students from KIPP West Philadelphia Preparatory Charter School with books made possible by the 2008 Book Bash.