We’re excited to kick off our ninth annual winter reading challenge, sponsored by Steps to Literacy. This year’s theme, Read with Benny, invites readers across North America to join Benny the Bean on a fun book-filled adventure. As the new year begins, this challenge reminds us that reading is rewarding for all ages—and even better when shared with a friend, family member, or fellow book lover.
New for 2026: Benny’s Book Bag
This year, we’ve teamed up with Steps to Literacy, a trusted partner for educators and literacy programs for over 25 years, to bring Beanstack partners an exclusive treat: Benny’s Book Bags for readers in grades K–5! Steps to Literacy is dedicated to providing engaging, high-quality books and resources that help children develop a lifelong love of reading. These specially curated book bags are packed with high-quality, age-appropriate titles, perfect for keeping kids engaged over winter break.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Order before November 1, 2025
- Ships by: December 15, 2025 (just in time to send home before winter break)
- Includes: A curated selection of books for grades K–5
📚 Ready to order? Visit the Steps to Literacy website or contact your client success manager for more details and to place your order.
Read with Benny
This January, join Benny the Bean for our 2026 Winter Reading Challenge! Beanstack is inviting libraries and schools across North America to bring this ninth annual celebration of reading to their communities. We’ll create the challenge, you rally your readers! Whether you’re a lifelong reader or just picking up a book for fun, this challenge is all about sharing the joy of reading with friends, family, and fellow book lovers.
Participants can earn playful Benny-themed badges for logging their reading and have the chance to win exciting prizes. Start the year off with a page-turning adventure and join Benny for a reading experience you won’t forget!
Join Us This Winter
Beanstack and Steps to Literacy share a common mission: inspiring a lifelong love of reading. Together, we’re making this year’s Winter Reading Challenge even more impactful—keeping kids motivated, engaged, and turning pages all season long.
Not a Beanstack partner, and want to learn more? Get in touch to learn more!