Americans Select To Kill a Mockingbird as America’s Best-Loved Novel, revealed in the Grand Finale of
THE GREAT AMERICAN READ on PBS
Rank in Top Five with Over 4 Million Votes Cast –
ARLINGTON, VA; OCTOBER 24, 2018 – PBS revealed that To Kill a Mockingbird was voted by viewers as America’s best-loved novel during THE GREAT AMERICAN READ “Grand Finale” on Tuesday, October 23. The final episode, taped in front of a live audience at the Masonic Hall in New York City, counted down all 100 novels, which were first revealed to the public in April. Voting opened with the two-hour premiere episode on May 22, 2018 and concluded on October 18, 2018, generating more than 4 million total votes and inspiring a multi-platform and multi-generational celebration of literature. Series host Meredith Vieira joined the playwright and cast from the new Broadway play based on To Kill a Mockingbird – Aaron Sorkin, Jeff Daniels (Atticus Finch), LaTanya Richardson Jackson (Calpurnia) and Gbenga Akinnagbe (Tom Robinson) – to celebrate the best-loved novel, and discuss its impact and why it still resonates today.
One of the best-loved stories of all time, Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird has been translated into more than 40 languages, sold more than 40 million copies worldwide, served as the basis for an enormously popular motion picture and was voted one of the best novels of the 20th century by librarians across the country. A gripping, heart-wrenching and wholly remarkable tale of coming of age in a South poisoned by virulent prejudice, it views a world of great beauty and savage inequities through the eyes of a young girl as her father, a crusading local lawyer, risks everything to defend a black man unjustly accused of a terrible crime.
“What an exhilarating and powerful journey THE GREAT AMERICAN READ has taken us on over these past few months. I am so proud of the way in which readers have embraced this series, and honored to have been a part of it,” said Vieira. “I’m not surprised at all that Americans chose To Kill a Mockingbird as their best-loved novel. It is a personal favorite of mine — one that truly opened my eyes to a world outside of my own. Harper Lee’s iconic work of literature is cherished for its resonance, its life lessons and its impact on one’s own moral compass.”
The top five ranking novels — which also included Outlander, Harry Potter, Pride and Prejudice and The Lord of the Rings — were all showcased during THE GREAT AMERICAN READ finale event with live in-person interviews with key talent who have strong personal connections to each literary piece. In addition to Vieira and the cast of Broadway’s To Kill a Mockingbird, attendees included authors Diana Gabaldon (Outlander), Amy Tan (The Joy Luck Club), William P. Young (The Shack), Markus Zusak (The Book Thief) and Robert R. McCammon (Swan Song); actors Wil Wheaton and Ali Wentworth; journalist Lesley Stahl; and literary experts Yahdon Israel, Kevin Young, Lisa Lucas and Library of Congress’ Marie Arana, among several other experts and super fans.
An eight-part television series and nationwide initiative, THE GREAT AMERICAN READ explores the power of books and the joy of reading through the lens of America’s 100 best-loved novels. The 100 titles included on the list were selected through a demographically and statistically representative national survey conducted by YouGov. Viewers were able to cast votes for their favorite titles each day at pbs.org/greatamericanread, through hashtag voting via Facebook and Twitter, through SMS texting using the dedicated book hashtag, and by phone toll-free.
“Thank you to the millions of people who joined us for this national celebration of books,” said Paula Kerger, President and CEO of PBS. “It has been truly inspirational to see people across generations and cultures coming together to share in their love of reading. We are especially grateful to PBS' nearly 350 member stations for bringing the power of this effort into communities in every corner of our country."
“Our company, Nutopia, is elated to see how engaged and passionate the audience for THE GREAT AMERICAN READ has been throughout this journey. Our main goal when creating the concept was to help inspire the American public to get excited about reading and share their personal connections to all these amazing works,” said Jane Root, CEO and Founder of Nutopia. “To Kill A Mockingbird has always held a special spot in American culture that it comes as no surprise that this book would become the most loved title.”
Since its launch in May 2018, the nationwide initiative encouraged readers to join the conversation online and in their communities, thus generating a combined following of nearly 250,000 book lovers across Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest. THE GREAT AMERICAN READ Facebook Book Club has grown to an actively engaged community of over 50,000 bibliophiles, and video content related to the series from PBS Digital Studios and weekly episode streams have generated 5.5 million views across PBS platforms, Facebook and YouTube. Additionally, more than 75 local public television stations in 36 states held nearly 175 community engagement activities. These events included book clubs, author appearances, trivia nights, book-themed family activities, costume parties and screening events, including a number of finale watch parties in which communities could find out the top book together.
Below is the full list of 100 best-loved novels in ranking order:
100. Doña Barbara
Funding for THE GREAT AMERICAN READ is provided by The Anne Ray Foundation and PBS. In addition, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) provided grants, in partnership with PBS, to public media stations across the country to create local content and host screenings and forums to encourage summer reading and participation in the initiative.
THE GREAT AMERICAN READ is a production of Nutopia for PBS. The program is executive produced by Jane Root, Michael Cascio, Bob Kirsh and Charles Marquardt; co-executive produced by Rebecca Ratliff Cameron; line produced by Rachael Jerahian; and produced by Nilam Agrawal-Desai, Katherine Linton, Kate Chumley, Justine Simonson, Michelle Smawley, Siobhan Lockhart, Annie Wong and Tomek Gross. Bill Gardner, Vice President of Programming and Development, is executive in charge for PBS, and Bethany Latham is project director.
Amplifying the on-air and online series content is a fully illustrated companion book, The Great American Read: The Book of Books, which includes information about the 100 novels, author profiles, rare images of original manuscripts and more, plus a foreword by THE GREAT AMERICAN READ host Meredith Vieira, and is currently available for purchase.
About Nutopia
Nutopia is a leading television production company creating innovative, award-winning, premium content on a global scale. Founded in 2008 by Jane Root, former President of Discovery Channel US, Controller of BBC2 and co-founder of Wall to Wall TV, Nutopia created the ‘mega doc’ model, blending huge scale history series and high-profile talent from the worlds of documentary and drama. In 2017, the company entered in to a creative partnership with Academy Award®-nominated feature film producers Roast Beef. Nutopia has become synonymous with creating high quality content that stands out from the crowd, working with some of the most prominent global broadcasters including Netflix, CNN, National Geographic, the BBC, PBS and A+E Networks. Critical successes include the Emmy Award-winning series HOW WE GOT TO NOW; two seasons of ratings smash FINDING JESUS. FAITH. FACT. FORGERY; Emmy Award-winning series AMERICA THE STORY OF US and MANKIND THE STORY OF ALL OF US. Upcoming projects include THE LAST CZARS and BABIES for Netflix.
About PBS PBS, with nearly 350 member stations, offers all Americans the opportunity to explore new ideas and new worlds through television and digital content. Each month, PBS reaches over 90 million people through television and 30 million people online, inviting them to experience the worlds of science, history, nature and public affairs; to hear diverse viewpoints; and to take front row seats to world-class drama and performances. PBS’ broad array of programs has been consistently honored by the industry’s most coveted award competitions. Teachers of children from pre-K through 12th grade turn to PBS for digital content and services that help bring classroom lessons to life. Decades of research confirms that PBS’ premier children’s media service, PBS KIDS, helps children build critical literacy, math and social-emotional skills, enabling them to find success in school and life. Delivered through member stations, PBS KIDS offers high-quality educational content on TV – including a 24/7 channel, online at pbskids.org, via an array of mobile apps and in communities across America. More information about PBS is available at www.pbs.org, one of the leading dot-org websites on the internet, or by following PBS on Twitter, Facebook or through our apps for mobile and connected devices. |
Showing posts with label The Great American Read. Show all posts
Showing posts with label The Great American Read. Show all posts
Wednesday, October 24, 2018
Americans Select To Kill a Mockingbird as America’s Best-Loved Novel, revealed in the Grand Finale of THE GREAT AMERICAN READ on PBS
Tuesday, July 31, 2018
PBS Wants YOU to Join "The Great American Read"
PBS Wants YOU to Join "The Great American Read"
In addition to the nationwide reading campaign, the eight-part television series returns to PBS stations on Tuesday, September 11 at 8:00/7:00c.
[via press release from PBS] PBS Wants YOU to Join THE GREAT AMERICAN READ
- The First-of-Its-Kind National Celebration of Books Combines Original Digital Content, Multi-Platform Resources, National Partnerships and Local Activities Taking Place in Communities
Around The Country -
BEVERLY HILLS, CA; JULY 30, 2018 - Something "bookish" is going on, and PBS wants to encourage everyone to be a part of it. Launched this past April and continuing throughout the fall, PBS' THE GREAT AMERICAN READ is asking people across the country to read, vote and share in the first-ever national campaign to choose "America's Best-Loved Novel." In addition to the nationwide reading campaign, the eight-part television series returns to PBS stations on Tuesday, September 11 at 8:00 p.m. ET (check local listings). The campaign encompasses a wide range of community engagement activities, as well as digital and social initiatives, all leading up to an exciting finale airing Tuesday, October 23 at 8:00 p.m. ET (check local listings) on PBS stations.
Titles included on the top 100 list of America's favorite novels run the gamut from modern-day pop-culture hits to beloved children's classics that have stood the test of time; from science fiction adventures to historic literature written hundreds of years ago; from thrillers that keep us on the edge of our seats to complex personal journeys that raise challenging social issues. THE GREAT AMERICAN READ is one of the most extensive national celebrations of books ever, and it's just getting started. To date, almost 2 million votes have been cast in America's search for its "Best-Loved Novel."
Viewers are currently able to vote for their favorite titles at pbs.org/greatamericanread, through hashtag voting via Facebook and Twitter, and through SMS texting using the dedicated book hashtag that can be found here. In the fall, viewers will also be able to cast their vote toll-free by phone.
"THE GREAT AMERICAN READ is a national celebration of literature and reading on an unprecedented scale, and a forum for the sharing of inspiration, ideas and what it means to be American from various perspectives," said Bill Gardner, Vice President of Programming & Development for PBS. "We are thrilled that the public has embraced THE GREAT AMERICAN READ in the way that it has. All over the country, people are reading, voting and sharing their passion for their top titles with friends, family and neighbors, attending local events and joining the conversation on our digital platforms. This is exactly what THE GREAT AMERICAN READ is all about."
"We are elated to see how engaged the American audience has been with THE GREAT AMERICAN READ across all PBS platforms and hope to see the trend continue as we head into the finale this fall," said Jane Root, Nutopia CEO and founder. "I myself am currently half way through four books on the list I'd never read before - and I love them all. What a joy to make these discoveries. Thank you to everyone who has voted or shown their passion for books in the wonderful reading group."
To raise awareness and generate participation in THE GREAT AMERICAN READ on a national level, PBS has engaged key partners, including the Library of Congress, the American Library Association, the American Booksellers Association and the National Council of Teachers of English. Partner activities have included reading and screening events, branded displays, voting stations and forging local partnerships with PBS stations. In addition, under the banner of THE GREAT AMERICAN READ, PBS has partnered with First Book, Penguin Random House and Simon & Schuster to provide book donations across the country through local PBS member stations.
Locally, PBS stations are offering events and educational opportunities related to THE GREAT AMERICAN READ in communities from coast to coast. Throughout the summer and leading up to the grand finale, more than two dozen PBS member stations will host over 125 literary-themed events to connect families to THE GREAT AMERICAN READ through hands-on activities, with stations such as Detroit Public Television, Nashville Public Television, WNET in New York, WETA in Washington, DC, and WUCF in Orlando leading the charge. These events include book clubs, author appearances and readings, screenings, book-themed family activities and more. For example, Detroit's literary social media series, "PBS Books," is broadening the reach of some of the nation's biggest book festivals in support of THE GREAT AMERICAN READ. Nashville and WUCF are leveraging their already robust community partnerships and sharing best practices with colleagues across public media. WNET will utilize its content-sharing platform, Wavelength, to make customizable companion programs for THE GREAT AMERICAN READ. Throughout the fall, PBS will continue to work with stations across the country to develop resources that will encourage, promote and support the local initiatives that are taking root nationwide.
New original digital content inspired by THE GREAT AMERICAN READ includes two new Facebook Watch miniseries from the award-winning PBS Digital Studios. Hosted by Lindsay Ellis, IT'S LIT is a six-episode limited series of video essays that celebrates the role of books in popular culture and explores why Americans love to read. The series maximizes Facebook's community features to drive conversation and commentary in a shareable and engaging way. READ AWAKENING is a four-part literary variety show that blends comedy, music and more, hosted by Dominique Taylor and produced with funding support from Black Public Media. Described as a modern version of the hit children's series READING RAINBOW, READ AWAKENING features enlightening conversations about books, influencers and trends within the literary community. More than 900,000 people follow PBS Digital Studios content across its six active Facebook Watch pages. The content has generated more than 1.8 million shares and produces 2 million average monthly views.
The fun continues across PBS' social media platforms, where readers are encouraged to share their personal connections to the titles on the top 100 list and beyond. PBS' Facebook book club dedicated to THE GREAT AMERICAN READ has more than 36,000 members, and over 333,000 people have completed the quiz about how many of the 100 books they've read. Since THE GREAT AMERICAN READ website launched, it has received over 5 million page views, and more than 3,000 people have submitted personal stories about their favorite novels. In addition, THE GREAT AMERICAN READ has more than 150,000 followers across its dedicated social pages, and more than 90,000 people have signed up to receive THE GREAT AMERICAN READ newsletter to stay up to date with the program's latest developments.
This fall, PBS will also offer PreK-12 teachers an easy way to integrate THE GREAT AMERICAN READ into their instruction with a range of curriculum-aligned videos and interactive lesson plans. Teachers can use these resources to enhance homework assignments and kick-start classroom discussions. THE GREAT AMERICAN READcollection is currently available on PBS LearningMedia. In addition, this fall, PBS Digital Innovators will host three Virtual Professional Learning Events for teachers, PBS Education will host a similar event aimed at educators of early childhood learners and PBS TeacherLine will offer several courses for early childhood educators who teach young readers.
To complement THE GREAT AMERICAN READ, PBS KIDS is hosting "PBS KIDS Read" as part of the annual summer learning initiative for children ages 2-8 and their families. Available on PBS Parents, "PBS KIDS Read" encourages reading and related activities through a variety of resources for kids and parents, including book lists, tips for new readers and other literacy resources.
Funding for THE GREAT AMERICAN READ is provided by The Anne Ray Foundation and PBS. In addition, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting has provided grants, in partnership with PBS, to public media stations across the country to create local content and host screenings and forums to encourage summer reading and participation in the initiative.
THE GREAT AMERICAN READ is a production of Nutopia for PBS. The program is executive produced by Jane Root, Michael Cascio, Bob Kirsh and Charles Marquardt; co-executive produced by Rebecca Ratliff Cameron; line produced by Rachael Jerahian; and produced by Nilam Agrawal-Desai, Katherine Linton, Kate Chumley, Justine Simonson, Michelle Smawley, Siobhan Lockhart, Annie Wong and Tomek Gross. Bill Gardner, Vice President of Programming and Development, is executive in charge for PBS, and Bethany Latham is project director.
Amplifying the on-air and online series content will be a fully illustrated companion book, The Great American Read: The Book of Books, which will include information about the 100 novels, author profiles, rare images of original manuscripts and more, plus a foreword by THE GREAT AMERICAN READ host Meredith Vieira, to be published by Black Dog & Leventhal and made available on Tuesday, August 21.
About Nutopia
Nutopia is a leading television production company creating innovative, award-winning, premium content on a global scale. Founded in 2008 by Jane Root, former President of Discovery Channel US, Controller of BBC2 and co-founder of Wall to Wall TV, Nutopia created the 'mega doc' model, blending huge scale history series and high-profile talent from the worlds of documentary and drama. In 2017, the company entered in to a creative partnership with Academy Award(R)-nominated feature film producers Roast Beef. Nutopia has become synonymous with creating high quality content that stands out from the crowd, working with some of the most prominent global broadcasters including Netflix, CNN, National Geographic, the BBC, PBS and A+E Networks. Critical successes include the Emmy Award-winning series HOW WE GOT TO NOW; two seasons of ratings smash FINDING JESUS. FAITH. FACT. FORGERY; Emmy Award-winning series AMERICA THE STORY OF US and MANKIND THE STORY OF ALL OF US. Upcoming projects include THE LAST CZARS and BABIES for Netflix.
About PBS
PBS, with nearly 350 member stations, offers all Americans the opportunity to explore new ideas and new worlds through television and digital content. Each month, PBS reaches over 90 million people through television and 30 million people online, inviting them to experience the worlds of science, history, nature and public affairs; to hear diverse viewpoints; and to take front row seats to world-class drama and performances. PBS' broad array of programs has been consistently honored by the industry's most coveted award competitions. Teachers of children from pre-K through 12th grade turn to PBS for digital content and services that help bring classroom lessons to life. Decades of research confirms that PBS' premier children's media service, PBS KIDS, helps children build critical literacy, math and social-emotional skills, enabling them to find success in school and life. Delivered through member stations, PBS KIDS offers high-quality educational content on TV - including a 24/7 channel, online at pbskids.org, via an array of mobile apps and in communities across America. More information about PBS is available at www.pbs.org, one of the leading dot-org websites on the internet, or by following PBS on Twitter, Facebook or through our apps for mobile and connected devices.
In addition to the nationwide reading campaign, the eight-part television series returns to PBS stations on Tuesday, September 11 at 8:00/7:00c.
[via press release from PBS] PBS Wants YOU to Join THE GREAT AMERICAN READ
- The First-of-Its-Kind National Celebration of Books Combines Original Digital Content, Multi-Platform Resources, National Partnerships and Local Activities Taking Place in Communities
Around The Country -
BEVERLY HILLS, CA; JULY 30, 2018 - Something "bookish" is going on, and PBS wants to encourage everyone to be a part of it. Launched this past April and continuing throughout the fall, PBS' THE GREAT AMERICAN READ is asking people across the country to read, vote and share in the first-ever national campaign to choose "America's Best-Loved Novel." In addition to the nationwide reading campaign, the eight-part television series returns to PBS stations on Tuesday, September 11 at 8:00 p.m. ET (check local listings). The campaign encompasses a wide range of community engagement activities, as well as digital and social initiatives, all leading up to an exciting finale airing Tuesday, October 23 at 8:00 p.m. ET (check local listings) on PBS stations.
Titles included on the top 100 list of America's favorite novels run the gamut from modern-day pop-culture hits to beloved children's classics that have stood the test of time; from science fiction adventures to historic literature written hundreds of years ago; from thrillers that keep us on the edge of our seats to complex personal journeys that raise challenging social issues. THE GREAT AMERICAN READ is one of the most extensive national celebrations of books ever, and it's just getting started. To date, almost 2 million votes have been cast in America's search for its "Best-Loved Novel."
Viewers are currently able to vote for their favorite titles at pbs.org/greatamericanread, through hashtag voting via Facebook and Twitter, and through SMS texting using the dedicated book hashtag that can be found here. In the fall, viewers will also be able to cast their vote toll-free by phone.
"THE GREAT AMERICAN READ is a national celebration of literature and reading on an unprecedented scale, and a forum for the sharing of inspiration, ideas and what it means to be American from various perspectives," said Bill Gardner, Vice President of Programming & Development for PBS. "We are thrilled that the public has embraced THE GREAT AMERICAN READ in the way that it has. All over the country, people are reading, voting and sharing their passion for their top titles with friends, family and neighbors, attending local events and joining the conversation on our digital platforms. This is exactly what THE GREAT AMERICAN READ is all about."
"We are elated to see how engaged the American audience has been with THE GREAT AMERICAN READ across all PBS platforms and hope to see the trend continue as we head into the finale this fall," said Jane Root, Nutopia CEO and founder. "I myself am currently half way through four books on the list I'd never read before - and I love them all. What a joy to make these discoveries. Thank you to everyone who has voted or shown their passion for books in the wonderful reading group."
To raise awareness and generate participation in THE GREAT AMERICAN READ on a national level, PBS has engaged key partners, including the Library of Congress, the American Library Association, the American Booksellers Association and the National Council of Teachers of English. Partner activities have included reading and screening events, branded displays, voting stations and forging local partnerships with PBS stations. In addition, under the banner of THE GREAT AMERICAN READ, PBS has partnered with First Book, Penguin Random House and Simon & Schuster to provide book donations across the country through local PBS member stations.
Locally, PBS stations are offering events and educational opportunities related to THE GREAT AMERICAN READ in communities from coast to coast. Throughout the summer and leading up to the grand finale, more than two dozen PBS member stations will host over 125 literary-themed events to connect families to THE GREAT AMERICAN READ through hands-on activities, with stations such as Detroit Public Television, Nashville Public Television, WNET in New York, WETA in Washington, DC, and WUCF in Orlando leading the charge. These events include book clubs, author appearances and readings, screenings, book-themed family activities and more. For example, Detroit's literary social media series, "PBS Books," is broadening the reach of some of the nation's biggest book festivals in support of THE GREAT AMERICAN READ. Nashville and WUCF are leveraging their already robust community partnerships and sharing best practices with colleagues across public media. WNET will utilize its content-sharing platform, Wavelength, to make customizable companion programs for THE GREAT AMERICAN READ. Throughout the fall, PBS will continue to work with stations across the country to develop resources that will encourage, promote and support the local initiatives that are taking root nationwide.
New original digital content inspired by THE GREAT AMERICAN READ includes two new Facebook Watch miniseries from the award-winning PBS Digital Studios. Hosted by Lindsay Ellis, IT'S LIT is a six-episode limited series of video essays that celebrates the role of books in popular culture and explores why Americans love to read. The series maximizes Facebook's community features to drive conversation and commentary in a shareable and engaging way. READ AWAKENING is a four-part literary variety show that blends comedy, music and more, hosted by Dominique Taylor and produced with funding support from Black Public Media. Described as a modern version of the hit children's series READING RAINBOW, READ AWAKENING features enlightening conversations about books, influencers and trends within the literary community. More than 900,000 people follow PBS Digital Studios content across its six active Facebook Watch pages. The content has generated more than 1.8 million shares and produces 2 million average monthly views.
The fun continues across PBS' social media platforms, where readers are encouraged to share their personal connections to the titles on the top 100 list and beyond. PBS' Facebook book club dedicated to THE GREAT AMERICAN READ has more than 36,000 members, and over 333,000 people have completed the quiz about how many of the 100 books they've read. Since THE GREAT AMERICAN READ website launched, it has received over 5 million page views, and more than 3,000 people have submitted personal stories about their favorite novels. In addition, THE GREAT AMERICAN READ has more than 150,000 followers across its dedicated social pages, and more than 90,000 people have signed up to receive THE GREAT AMERICAN READ newsletter to stay up to date with the program's latest developments.
This fall, PBS will also offer PreK-12 teachers an easy way to integrate THE GREAT AMERICAN READ into their instruction with a range of curriculum-aligned videos and interactive lesson plans. Teachers can use these resources to enhance homework assignments and kick-start classroom discussions. THE GREAT AMERICAN READcollection is currently available on PBS LearningMedia. In addition, this fall, PBS Digital Innovators will host three Virtual Professional Learning Events for teachers, PBS Education will host a similar event aimed at educators of early childhood learners and PBS TeacherLine will offer several courses for early childhood educators who teach young readers.
To complement THE GREAT AMERICAN READ, PBS KIDS is hosting "PBS KIDS Read" as part of the annual summer learning initiative for children ages 2-8 and their families. Available on PBS Parents, "PBS KIDS Read" encourages reading and related activities through a variety of resources for kids and parents, including book lists, tips for new readers and other literacy resources.
Funding for THE GREAT AMERICAN READ is provided by The Anne Ray Foundation and PBS. In addition, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting has provided grants, in partnership with PBS, to public media stations across the country to create local content and host screenings and forums to encourage summer reading and participation in the initiative.
THE GREAT AMERICAN READ is a production of Nutopia for PBS. The program is executive produced by Jane Root, Michael Cascio, Bob Kirsh and Charles Marquardt; co-executive produced by Rebecca Ratliff Cameron; line produced by Rachael Jerahian; and produced by Nilam Agrawal-Desai, Katherine Linton, Kate Chumley, Justine Simonson, Michelle Smawley, Siobhan Lockhart, Annie Wong and Tomek Gross. Bill Gardner, Vice President of Programming and Development, is executive in charge for PBS, and Bethany Latham is project director.
Amplifying the on-air and online series content will be a fully illustrated companion book, The Great American Read: The Book of Books, which will include information about the 100 novels, author profiles, rare images of original manuscripts and more, plus a foreword by THE GREAT AMERICAN READ host Meredith Vieira, to be published by Black Dog & Leventhal and made available on Tuesday, August 21.
About Nutopia
Nutopia is a leading television production company creating innovative, award-winning, premium content on a global scale. Founded in 2008 by Jane Root, former President of Discovery Channel US, Controller of BBC2 and co-founder of Wall to Wall TV, Nutopia created the 'mega doc' model, blending huge scale history series and high-profile talent from the worlds of documentary and drama. In 2017, the company entered in to a creative partnership with Academy Award(R)-nominated feature film producers Roast Beef. Nutopia has become synonymous with creating high quality content that stands out from the crowd, working with some of the most prominent global broadcasters including Netflix, CNN, National Geographic, the BBC, PBS and A+E Networks. Critical successes include the Emmy Award-winning series HOW WE GOT TO NOW; two seasons of ratings smash FINDING JESUS. FAITH. FACT. FORGERY; Emmy Award-winning series AMERICA THE STORY OF US and MANKIND THE STORY OF ALL OF US. Upcoming projects include THE LAST CZARS and BABIES for Netflix.
About PBS
PBS, with nearly 350 member stations, offers all Americans the opportunity to explore new ideas and new worlds through television and digital content. Each month, PBS reaches over 90 million people through television and 30 million people online, inviting them to experience the worlds of science, history, nature and public affairs; to hear diverse viewpoints; and to take front row seats to world-class drama and performances. PBS' broad array of programs has been consistently honored by the industry's most coveted award competitions. Teachers of children from pre-K through 12th grade turn to PBS for digital content and services that help bring classroom lessons to life. Decades of research confirms that PBS' premier children's media service, PBS KIDS, helps children build critical literacy, math and social-emotional skills, enabling them to find success in school and life. Delivered through member stations, PBS KIDS offers high-quality educational content on TV - including a 24/7 channel, online at pbskids.org, via an array of mobile apps and in communities across America. More information about PBS is available at www.pbs.org, one of the leading dot-org websites on the internet, or by following PBS on Twitter, Facebook or through our apps for mobile and connected devices.
Friday, April 20, 2018
THE GREAT AMERICAN READ, a New Multi-Platform PBS Series, Reveals List of America’s 100 Favorite Novels
THE GREAT AMERICAN READ, a New Multi-Platform PBS Series, Reveals List of America’s 100 Favorite Novels
– Eight-Part Series Profiling America’s Favorite Books to Premiere May 22 on PBS Stations With Two-Hour Event –
– Nationwide Summer Reading Initiative Will Culminate in Vote for
“America’s Best-Loved Novel” –
– Barbara Pierce Bush, Chelsea Clinton, Gillian Flynn, Diana Gabaldon, Jenna Bush Hager, Chris Kluwe, Diane Lane, George Lopez, Armistead Maupin, Seth Meyers,
Cynthia Nixon, James Patterson, Jason Reynolds, Ming-Na Wen, Wil Wheaton,
Venus Williams and Many More Featured in the Series –
ARLINGTON, VA; April 20, 2018 - PBS today unveiled a list of America’s 100 best-loved novels, chosen in support of THE GREAT AMERICAN READ, a new PBS series and multi-platform initiative that celebrates the joy of reading and the books we love. THE GREAT AMERICAN READ, hosted by television personality and journalist Meredith Vieira, launches with a two-hour episode on Tuesday, May 22, 2018, at 8 p.m. on PBS stations and will introduce viewers to the full list of America’s 100 favorite novels selected through a demographically representative national survey conducted by YouGov. The series will also feature interviews with celebrities, authors, superfans and everyday Americans discussing the way particular books have influenced them and their significance in American popular culture. Then, after a multi-platform initiative throughout the summer, which will include live public events, social media components and national reading clubs, the series will resume in the fall with several themed episodes, including an exciting finale, culminating in the first-ever national vote to choose “America’s Best-Loved Novel.” It will be the most expansive national celebration of books and reading aimed at engaging multi-generational readers across multiple platforms ever created.
“There is perhaps no greater experience than discovering a novel that takes hold of you, works itself into your heart and your mind, changes the way you think or takes you into another world,” said Paula Kerger, PBS President and CEO. “With THE GREAT AMERICAN READ, we will leverage our combined broadcast and digital presence, along with the strong local connections of PBS member stations, to inspire a national conversation about beloved books and the power of reading.”
“The 100 novels selected have a special place in our hearts as they share our stories and celebrate the depth and range of our culture,” said Jane Root, CEO and founder of Nutopia. “I have no idea which book will come out on top, but I am so excited to join the journey and discover America’s most loved novel.”
Voting will open with the launch of the two-hour premiere episode on May 22 and continue throughout the summer, leading up to the grand finale in October 2018. Over the summer, viewers will be able to vote at pbs.org/greatamericanread and through hashtag voting via Facebook and Twitter using #GreatReadPBS. In the fall, viewers will also be able to cast their vote toll-free by phone and through SMS texting.
Authors, celebrities and notables joining the search for “America’s Best-Loved Novel” include Diana Gabaldon, George Lopez, Seth Meyers, Junot Diaz, Lauren Graham, John Green, John Irving, Bill T. Jones, Devon Kennard, Gayle King, George R.R. Martin, Wynton Marsalis, Lesley Stahl, Ming-Na Wen and many more, each of whom will share their personal stories and connections to their favorite book.
Whether it’s rediscovering an old favorite or engaging with a new title, THE GREAT AMERICAN READ program will encourage people to read as many novels as they can from the top 100 list, discuss them in virtual and community events organized by local public television stations, libraries and book reading clubs, and vote all summer for their favorites. The campaign will culminate in a list of America’s favorite works of fiction and ultimately, America’s number one novel.
THE GREAT AMERICAN READ is supported by an extensive multi-platform digital and social media campaign designed to inspire Americans to read, vote and share their personal connections to titles on the top 100 list and beyond over the course of the summer. This includes an interactive website, links to local events, interactive video content, social share features and much more. As part of the experience, PBS Digital Studios will develop and produce unique programming across its award-winning YouTube Channels and an original miniseries on Facebook Watch. PBS Digital Studios hosts will collaborate with authors, booktubers and other creators to bring PBS’ legacy of championing literacy to Digital platforms. PBS Digital Studios’ Facebook Watch series is inspired by THE GREAT AMERICAN READ and features six video essays covering broad book-related topics in a highly shareable and engaging way.
In addition to the digital and social campaigns, THE GREAT AMERICAN READ has sparked nationwide community engagement efforts that will offer stations opportunities to create complementary content; stage community events; partner with libraries, booksellers, charitable organizations, schools, and other entities; and deepen the conversations and connections among people around the country. More than 100 stations are activating around the project, with stations such as Detroit Public Television, Nashville Public Television, WLIW in New York, WETA in Washington, DC, and WUCF in Orlando leading the charge. Detroit’s literary social media series, “PBS Books,” is broadening the reach of some of the nation’s biggest book festivals in support of THE GREAT AMERICAN READ. Nashville and WUCF are leveraging their already robust community partnerships and sharing best practices throughout the system. WLIW will utilize its content-sharing platform, Wavelength, to make customizable companion programs for THE GREAT AMERICAN READ, and WETA is partnering with PBS to amplify the excitement around THE GREAT AMERICAN READ. PBS will continue to work with its stations through the fall to develop resources that will encourage, promote, and support the local initiatives that are taking root across the United States.
Additionally, working with member stations and partners, PBS will develop resources and materials, including lesson plans and virtual book clubs, to encourage summer reading activities and extend the campaign into classrooms for the fall. To complement THE GREAT AMERICAN READ, over the summer PBS KIDS will also host PBS KIDS READ as part of an annual summer learning initiative for children ages 2-8 and their families, encouraging reading and related activities through a variety of resources for kids and parents.
The top 100 book list released today is based on a public opinion poll, conducted by YouGov on behalf of PBS for THE GREAT AMERICAN READ, that asked respondents to name their favorite novel. An advisory panel of book industry professionals compiled the results. Each author was represented only once, and series such as the Alex Cross Mysteries were included as one entry.
The chosen books span five centuries, from Don Quixote (1603) to Ghost (2016). Authors from 15 different countries are represented, with genres ranging from beloved children’s classics such as Charlotte’s Web to modern best-sellers such as Twilight.
Below is the full list of America’s 100 favorite novels, in alphabetical order by title:
**Denotes a series title
Funding for THE GREAT AMERICAN READ is provided by The Anne Ray Foundation and PBS. In addition, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) has provided grants, in partnership with PBS, to public media stations across the country to create local content and host screenings and forums to encourage summer reading and participation in the initiative.
THE GREAT AMERICAN READ is a production of Nutopia for PBS. The program is executive produced by Jane Root, Michael Cascio, Bob Kirsh and Charles Marquardt; co-executive produced by Rebecca Ratliff Cameron; line produced by Rachael Jerahian; and produced by Nilam Agrawal-Desai, Katherine Linton, Kate Chumley, Justine Simonson, Michelle Smawley, Siobhan Lockhart, Annie Wong and Tomek Gross. Bill Gardner, VP of Programming and Development, is executive in charge for PBS and Bethany Latham is project director.
Amplifying the on-air and online series content will be a fully illustrated companion book, The Great American Read: The Book of Books, which will include information about the 100 novels, author profiles, rare images of original manuscripts and more, plus a foreword by THE GREAT AMERICAN READ host Meredith Vieira, to be published by Black Dog & Leventhal in August 2018.
About Nutopia
Nutopia, a leading television production company creating award-winning, premium content on a global scale. Founded in 2008 by Jane Root, former president of Discovery Channel US, controller of BBC2 and co-founder of Wall to Wall TV, Nutopia innovated the “mega doc” model, blending huge-scale history series and high-profile talent from the worlds of documentary and drama. Nutopia has become synonymous with creating high-quality content that stands out from the crowd, working with some of the most prominent global broadcasters including Netflix, CNN, National Geographic, the BBC, PBS and A+E Networks. Critical successes include the Emmy Award-winning series How We Got to Now and Emmy Award-winning series America The Story of Us. Upcoming projects include National Geographic’s 10-hour flagship factual event One Strange Rock, the landmark art-history series Civilizations for BBC and PBS, and Babies for Netflix.
About PBS
PBS, with nearly 350 member stations, offers all Americans the opportunity to explore new ideas and new worlds through television and digital content. Each month, PBS reaches over 90 million people through television and 30 million people online, inviting them to experience the worlds of science, history, nature and public affairs; to hear diverse viewpoints; and to take front row seats to world-class drama and performances. PBS’ broad array of programs has been consistently honored by the industry’s most coveted award competitions. Teachers of children from pre-K through 12th grade turn to PBS for digital content and services that help bring classroom lessons to life. Decades of research confirms that PBS’ premier children’s media service, PBS KIDS, helps children build critical literacy, math and social-emotional skills, enabling them to find success in school and life. Delivered through member stations, PBS KIDS offers high-quality educational content on TV – including a 24/7 channel, online at pbskids.org, via an array of mobile apps and in communities across America. More information about PBS is available at www.pbs.org, one of the leading dot-org websites on the internet, or by following PBS on Twitter, Facebook or through our apps for mobile and connected devices.
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Wednesday, March 28, 2018
Meredith Vieira Named Host of PBS’ THE GREAT AMERICAN READ
Meredith Vieira Named Host of
PBS’ THE GREAT AMERICAN READ
– Gabrielle Union, Jason Reynolds, George R.R. Martin, Wynton Marsalis, Morgan Freeman, Junot Díaz, Margaret Atwood and Many More Featured in the Series, As America Goes in Search of Its Best-Loved Book –
– Show Premieres Tuesday, May 22, 2018, 8:00-10:00 p.m. ET on PBS Stations Nationwide –
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Meredith Vieira.
Credit: Courtesy of Inky Dinky Worldwide, Inc.
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ARLINGTON, VA; March 28, 2018 --
PBS announced today that television personality and journalist Meredith Vieira will host
THE GREAT AMERICAN READ, a new eight-part television series launching on PBS stations with a two-hour special event on Tuesday, May 22, 2018 at 8:00 p.m. In
THE GREAT AMERICAN READ, Vieira will take viewers on a journey across the country to uncover the nation’s 100 most-loved novels, the people who love them and their authors.
As host of the series, Vieira will tie together the overarching themes of our national love of literature and guide viewers on a search to discover America’s best-loved book. Vieira is known
for co-hosting NBC News’ “Today” and serving as moderator of ABC’s “The View.” Throughout her career, she has gained national recognition for her reporting on such programs as “The Meredith Vieira Show,” “60 Minutes” and CBS News. She entertained the nation
with her role as host of the popular syndicated quiz show “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire” and has won 14 Emmys for her work, engaging and educating the American public with hard-hitting news stories and heart-warming programming.
“It is a privilege to partner with PBS to bring
THE GREAT AMERICAN READ to viewers across the country,” said Vieira. “The power of reading is extraordinary – it allows us to escape to new worlds, introduces us to a diverse range of people, opens our minds to different ideas, and allows us to keep
learning no matter our age or background. THE GREAT AMERICAN READ offers a forum for readers to express what titles and stories they’re passionate about and share how novels impacted their lives. I am honored to be a part of this discussion.”
“We are thrilled to have Meredith join us on this national quest to discover ‘America’s Most-Loved Novel’, said Bill Gardner, VP of Programming & Development for PBS. “Meredith brings a unique
warmth and journalistic sensitivities that make her the perfect host for our exploration of American culture and our shared experiences as reflected by our favorite books.”
“As a fixture in American households for decades, Meredith’s voice is the natural choice to guide the audience through this unique and multi-platform journey to find the most beloved novel,”
said Jane Root, founder and CEO of Nutopia. “We are confident she has the ability to inspire viewers to read, vote and share their personal connections to the stories we explore in
THE GREAT AMERICAN READ.” Jane Root also serves as an executive producer on PBS’ CIVILIZATIONS.
Many key authors, celebrities and notable figures in the entertainment, sports, news and literary worlds will join Vieira in lending their voices and passion to
THE GREAT AMERICAN READ. Margaret Atwood, Jenna and Barbara Bush, Chelsea Clinton, Junot Díaz, Morgan Freeman, Lauren Graham, John Green, Gayle King, George R. R. Martin, Shaquille O’Neal, Sarah Jessica Parker, Jason Reynolds, Gabrielle Union, Ming-Na
Wen and many others will share their personal stories and connections to their favorite titles throughout the series.
Following the two-hour launch event of THE GREAT AMERICAN READ, and throughout the summer,
viewers will be encouraged to read and engage in the conversation by participating in local events, and by visiting the interactive website and voting for their favorite book on the list at
pbs.org/greatamericanread. The series will return in September with a recap and additional themed episodes exploring the nominated books, leading up to the reveal of “America’s
Best-Loved Novel” on Tuesday, October 23.
To complement
THE GREAT AMERICAN READ, PBS KIDS will host PBS KIDS READ as part of an annual summer learning initiative for children ages 2-8 and their families.
PBS KIDS READ will encourage reading and related activities through a variety of resources for children and parents, including social media engagement, digital games and tools, and downloadable activities. In addition, PBS member stations across the
country will host literacy and learning events in local communities throughout the summer months.
PBS will partner with its nearly 350 local member stations in support of
THE GREAT AMERICAN READ through grants designed to support active creation, distribution and promotion of the series, as well as through the formation and strengthening of local partnerships.
Funding for
THE GREAT AMERICAN READ is provided by The Anne Ray Foundation and PBS.
THE GREAT AMERICAN READ is a production of Nutopia for PBS. The program is executive produced by Jane Root, Michael Cascio, Bob Kirsh and Charles Marquardt; co-executive
produced by Rebecca Ratliff Cameron; line produced by Rachael Jerahian; and produced by Nilam Agrawal-Desai, Katherine Linton, Kate Chumley, Justine Simonson, Michelle Smawley, Siobhan Lockhart, Annie Wong and Tomek Gross.
Bill Gardner, VP of Programming and Development, is executive in charge for PBS and Bethany Latham is project director.
Amplifying the on-air and online series content will be a fullyillustrated companion book,
The Great American Read: The Book of Books, which will include information about the 100 novels, author profiles, rare images of original manuscripts and more, plus a foreword by
THE GREAT AMERICAN READ host Meredith Vieira, to be published by Black Dog & Leventhal in August 2018.
About Meredith Vieira
Meredith Vieira is a 14-time Emmy Award-winning host, executive producer and anchor. Most recently, she served as executive producer on the award-winning documentary TOWER. Vieira hosted and
served as executive producer on her own nationally syndicated daytime talk show, “The Meredith Vieira Show,” which premiered in September 2014 and ran for two seasons. Previously, she received critical acclaim for her hosting of “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire,”
“The Today Show” and “The View.” Early in her career, Vieira spent more than a decade at CBS News, garnering five Emmy Awards for her work as an editor on the news magazines “60 Minutes” and “West 57th.” Vieira founded and is CEO of Meredith Vieira
Productions, which develops and produces film, television and theatre. A native of Providence, R.I., Vieira received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Tufts University in Medford, MA. She has three children, Ben, Gabe and Lily, with her husband, best-selling
author and journalist Richard Cohen.
About Nutopia
Nutopia, a leading television production company creating award-winning, premium content on a global scale. Founded in 2008 by Jane Root, former President of Discovery Channel US, Controller
of BBC2 and co-founder of Wall to Wall TV, Nutopia innovated the “mega doc” model, blending huge-scale history series and high-profile talent from the worlds of documentary and drama. Nutopia has become synonymous with creating high-quality content that stands
out from the crowd, working with some of the most prominent global broadcasters including Netflix, CNN, National Geographic, the BBC, PBS and A+E Networks. Critical successes include the Emmy Award-winning series
How We Got To Now and Emmy Award-winning series America The Story Of Us. Upcoming projects include National Geographic’s 10-hour flagship factual event
One Strange Rock, and the landmark art-history series Civilizations for BBC and PBS, and
Babies for Netflix.
About PBS
PBS, with nearly 350 member stations,
offers all Americans the opportunity to explore new ideas and new worlds through television and digital content. Each month, PBS reaches nearly 100 million people through television and nearly 28 million people online, inviting them to experience the worlds
of science, history, nature and public affairs; to hear diverse viewpoints; and to take front row seats to world-class drama and performances. PBS’ broad array of programs has been consistently honored by the industry’s most coveted award competitions. Teachers
of children from pre-K through 12th grade turn to PBS for digital content and services that help bring classroom lessons to life. Decades of research confirms that PBS’ premier children’s media service, PBS KIDS, helps children build critical literacy,
math and social-emotional skills, enabling them to find success in school and life. Delivered through member stations, PBS KIDS offers high-quality educational content on TV – including a new 24/7 channel, online at pbskids.org,
via an array of mobile apps and in communities across America. More information about PBS is available at www.pbs.org,
one of the leading dot-org websites on the internet, or by following PBS on Twitter, Facebook or
through our apps for mobile and connected devices.
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