Dear Chicago: Help Us Write the Next Chapter

For five years, the Words of Wonder Literary Festival has brought together children, families, educators, authors, artists, and community leaders to celebrate the power of literacy, storytelling, and culture. What began as a vision to increase access to books and educational opportunities has grown into one of Chicago's premier family-centered literary events—creating spaces where young people can see themselves reflected in stories, engage with authors and artists, and discover the joy of reading.

This year, we need your help.

While the demand for literacy programs, culturally relevant books, and community-centered arts experiences continues to grow, funding opportunities have become increasingly competitive. Across the country, book bans and challenges to diverse literature are increasing, while literacy rates continue to decline. Now more than ever, our communities need access to books, storytelling, creative expression, and spaces where all voices are valued and celebrated.

Rather than reducing programming or charging admission, we have made a commitment to keep the 5th Annual Words of Wonder Literary Festival FREE for all families. We believe every child deserves access to books, authors, performances, educational experiences, and cultural celebrations regardless of their family's financial circumstances.

Your support will help fund:

Free admission for thousands of attendees
Free book giveaways for children and families
Author talks, storytelling sessions, and literacy workshops
Youth arts activities and creative writing experiences
Performances by local artists, poets, and cultural groups
Family resource and community engagement opportunities
Honorariums for authors, artists, and educators
Festival operations, supplies, and accessibility needs

Burst Into Books is a CPS Vendor and a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping young people deepen their love of reading by integrating the arts, connecting them with literacy professionals, and creating opportunities for self-expression. We believe literacy is not just about reading—it is about identity, confidence, opportunity, and community. We are equally committed to supporting the entire family unit because lasting change happens when families learn, grow, and thrive together.

At Burst Into Books, we believe in the power of the village. We believe that when communities come together, we can create opportunities that no child should have to go without. We believe that every young person deserves access to books that reflect their experiences and inspire their future.

Today, we invite you to join our village.

Whether you give $25, $50, $100, $500, or more, your contribution helps ensure that the Words of Wonder Literary Festival remains a free, accessible, and transformative experience for Chicago families.

Together, we can help the next generation fall in love with reading, celebrate their stories, and write the next chapter for our city.

Donate today and help us keep the wonder alive.

Burst Into Books is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.

Dear Chicago: Help Us Write the Next Chapter

A fundraising campaign supporting the 5th Annual Words of Wonder Literary Festival and year-round literacy and arts programming for Chicago youth and families.

Team Members