Next month, Kate McKinnon is set to host the National Book Awards, with Jon Batiste lined up for a live performance. The 75th-anniversary celebration of the prestigious literary awards promises to combine the best of literature with entertainment.
The National Book Foundation recently announced that Kate McKinnon, known for her work on “Saturday Night Live,” will take on the hosting duties for the event scheduled for November 20 at Cipriani Wall Street in Manhattan. Joining her on stage will be Jon Batiste, an Oscar- and Grammy-winning composer and musician, who will deliver a special performance.
The ceremony will feature the announcement of winners in five categories, with notable finalists such as Salman Rushdie and Percival Everett. While McKinnon herself is not in the running for an award, she is an author with her recently published children’s book, “The Millicent Quibb School of Etiquette for Young Ladies of Mad Science.”
Expressing her enthusiasm for the event, McKinnon shared, “I’ve been an invested reader my whole life and am so honoured to be part of this event that celebrates the life-changing power of books while recognising some of today’s most brilliant storytellers.” She reflected on the impact of books on her upbringing and worldview, highlighting the importance of diverse stories and perspectives.
Batiste, whose album “Beethoven Blues” is set for release just days before the awards ceremony, emphasised the significance of books as sources of inspiration and understanding. He stated, “Books are sacred sources of refuge, insight and humanity, shaping the world as we know it,” expressing his excitement to acknowledge artistic excellence and creativity at the event.
While musical guests are unusual at the National Book Awards, the inclusion of Jon Batiste adds an extra layer of entertainment to the milestone 75th anniversary celebration. Past hosts have included celebrities like Steve Martin, showcasing the intersection of literature and popular culture at this prestigious event.