Author to introduce new book at literary event fundraiser

The Glen Ellyn Children's Resource Center will welcome award-winning, Chicago-based author Rebecca Makkai to its annual Literary Event fundraiser later this month.

Proceeds from the May 21 gathering at Reserve 22 in Glen Ellyn will support the group's efforts to empower more than 200 low-income children living in the area to realize their potential through an intensive, five-day-a-week after-school tutoring and mentoring program.

The fundraiser is held in cooperation with The Bookstore of Glen Ellyn, along with sponsors Glen Ellyn Bank & Trust and Kiwanis of Glen Ellyn.

Makkai will share her latest work, "The Great Believers," and the literary journey that got her there.

The story weaves 1980s Chicago with contemporary Paris in a novel about loss, friendship, tragedy and redemption.

Makkai's other works are "The Borrower," "The Hundred-Year House" and "Music for Wartime."

"The Great Believers" has won numerous awards and accolades, including:

• American Library Association's Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Fiction, 2019;

• Pulitzer Prize finalist, 2019;

• New York Times' Top Ten Book Award, 2018;

• Chicago Review of Books Award, 2018;

• and National Book Award Finalist, 2018.

"We are thrilled to offer our community an evening with an author of Rebecca Makkai's caliber and an event that celebrates literacy, an integral part of our mission," says Judy Cheney, GECRC board member and Literary Event chairwoman.

"GECRC strives to provide our students the opportunity to both grow their literacy skills and develop a love of reading. This event raises important funds, moving us closer to that goal."

Glen Ellyn Elementary District 41's Measure of Academic Progress assessments indicate 93 percent of GECRC students showed growth in reading during the 2017-2018 school year.

Tickets are $60 in advance or $65 at the door and include light appetizers and one drink. A cash bar and raffle items also will be available.

The fundraiser runs from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, May 21, at Reserve 22, 485 Winchell Way. Tickets can be purchased directly at is.gd/GECRCtix, www.gecrc.com, or at The Bookstore, 475 N. Main St., Glen Ellyn.

If you go

What: Glen Ellyn Children's Resource Center Literary Event

When: 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 21

Where: Reserve 22, 485 Winchell Way, Glen Ellyn

Cost: $60 in advance; $65 at the door

Info: www.gecrc.com