Books that Changed My Life Festival | 2025
BOOKS THAT CHANGED MY LIFE FESTIVAL | 2025
Dive into the enchanting world of the Books That Changed My Life Festival, hosted by the JCC’s Lambert Center for Arts + Ideas. This 3rd annual celebration of programs takes place over two months and embraces the magical power of books to transform our lives. Cozy up with a captivating read from our pop-up library in The Laurie M. Tisch Gallery in our lobby, and join thought-provoking conversations and programs with notable minds as they share the books that have left an indelible mark on their journeys. Make some friends at our monstrous exhibit, and engage in lively discussions with fellow book lovers. We hope this festival brings you joy, inspiration, and a deeper connection to the stories that shape us all.
The Jewish people are often called the "people of the book," and for good reason. In this lively presentation of diverse reading materials, we honor the power of stories to shape our lives. Through storytelling, documentation, and the exploration of alternate worlds, we enrich our lives, forge deeper connections, and find greater meaning. Join us as we dive into the boundless worlds within books, celebrating the magic that binds us together and the wisdom that enlightens our journey.
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SCHEDULE 2025
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Story Bites (and Sweet Treats): An Evening of Culinary Arts, Fiction, and Cupcakes
Yael Van Der Wouden (Booker Prize Nominee) in Conversation with Lauren Wein
In Conversation with Gregg Hurwitz
Happy Hour Cocktails + the Best Book for NYC Moms
Author Chloe Sorvino in Conversation with Marguerite Zabar Mariscal, CEO of Momofuku
Bound by Stories: Ann Napolitano in Conversation with Noa Manheim
We Start to Sing! The Paper Bag Players: A Performance for Kids and Families (Morning Show)
We Start to Sing! The Paper Bag Players: A Performance for Kids and Families (Afternoon Show)
Storytime in the Lobby: WonderSpark Puppets Presents the Case of the Missing Creature
Sunset Circus (Afternoon Show)
Ben Romano Storytime in the Lobby
Oscar's Blue Bandana: Storytime in the Lobby with Wendy C. Goldstein
Opening Party: A Monstrous Book Party for Families
We Start to Sing! The Paper Bag Players: A Performance for Kids and Families (Morning Show)
We Start to Sing! The Paper Bag Players: A Performance for Kids and Families (Afternoon Show)
Storytime in the Lobby: WonderSpark Puppets Presents the Case of the Missing Creature
Sunset Circus (Afternoon Show)
Ben Romano Storytime in the Lobby
Oscar's Blue Bandana: Storytime in the Lobby with Wendy C. Goldstein
SPONSORS
The Books That Changed My Life Festival is made possible thanks to the generosity of The Harold Anfang Foundation, the Upper West Side Shilchut of The Jewish Agency for Israel, UJA-Federation of New York, and the Israel Office of Cultural Affairs at the Consulate General of Israel.
Gallery exhibits and programs are made possible with the generous support of the Laurie M. Tisch Illumination Fund. Additional support is provided by the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council and the generosity of individual donors.
PARTNERS
We would also like to thank our partners the Shakespeare and Company and the Jewish Book Council.
