Our Story

I founded Books Make a Difference in 2026. I loved to read when I was a kid, and, after not reading much during college, I started reading more a few years ago. I was transported back to curling up with a book in my childhood home. I read adult books, but I found that I still loved reading books written for kids. I know the power of owning a book that you love, and I wanted to share that magical feeling with as many kids as possible. 

Early on in my planning process, I got coffee with legendary children’s book author Clothilde Ewing. She challenged me to give thirty books to thirty schools this year, starting April 5th, 2026, the day I turned thirty years old. It’s been the perfect jump-start to our efforts, especially as we waited for our 501(c)(3) status to be approved (we just got it!). We’re making connections with administrations, teachers, and reading specialists in public schools around Chicago.

Thanks for joining me on the journey!

Megan Green, Founder