This annual celebration takes place throughout January and February and embraces the magical power of books to transform lives.
Dive into the enchanting world of the Books That Changed My Life Festival, hosted by the Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan’s Lambert Center for Arts + Ideas. Cozy up with a captivating read from the pop-up library in The Laurie M. Tisch Gallery in the JCC’s lobby; join thought-provoking conversations and programs with notable minds as they share the books that have left an indelible mark on their journeys; and bring the family to experience storytimes and performances that bring stories to life. The festival was created to bring joy, inspiration, and a deeper connection to the stories that shape us all.
This festival is more than an event—it’s a call to action for communities to reconnect with the timeless power of storytelling. In an era of digital overwhelm, the Books That Changed My Life Festival serves as a reminder that books still have the power to shape our minds, foster empathy, and bring us together.
Highlights include:
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Creating Worlds: a panel discussion bringing together visionary creators to explore the art of world-building across musical theater, theater, TV, film, and literature
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Book talk with Bruce Holsinger, author of Culpability—an Oprah Book Club selection and one of the most talked about books of the year
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Live Podcast Recording of Go Fact Yourself featuring special guests Julie Klausner (Hulu’s Difficult People, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Big Mouth) and Seth Rudetsky (musician, actor, writer, and radio host)
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Conversation with Carol Becker, owner of William Greenberg, as she discusses her new cookbook, William Greenberg Bakes Vegan
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Behind the Aisles: The Stories of Costco, Trader Joe’s, and Beyond: a panel discussion uncovering the stories of operations that define America’s most beloved retail giants
For tickets and a full lineup of events, visit: mmjccm.org/books-festival.
For group rates or VIP access, contact Liel Ben David, Program Director, at ldavid@mmjccm.org.
