The First Novel Fête
Join the Center for Fiction for the best book(ish) party in Brooklyn. The First Novel Fête is one of our favorite traditions, celebrating the seven debut novelists shortlisted for our First Novel Prize. Enjoy readings from the finalists’ work, meet and mingle with some of today’s most celebrated writers, catch up over light bites and drinks from our open bar, win door prizes from our generous sponsors, and more. This year’s Fête once again promises to be a fun, festive evening—we can’t wait to see you there.
The Fête also helps sustain our work for readers and writers of all ages. Proceeds support The Center’s KidsRead program with New York City public schools, our fellowships and awards for emerging writers, community programs, and more.
Featuring
Auguste White
The Evening’s Emcee
Seasonal Bites & Desserts from WINNER
Whisky Tastings from Johnnie Walker
Wine Provided by Selection Massale
Auguste White is an Emmy winning and five-time Emmy nominated comedian, writer, and director. She was recently named to the 2025 Forbes 30 Under 30 List. After three years as a supervising writer at Saturday Night Live, she joined Tina Fey, Robert Carlock, and Sam Means’s latest collaboration with Tracy Morgan and Danielle Radcliffe: The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins on NBC. Auguste lives in Brooklyn, where she recently adopted two evil and violent cats, Alice and Sunday.