The National Book Foundation presented the 59th Annual National Book Awards for best book in each of the categories of fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and young people's literature. Actor, author, and playwright Eric Bogosian emceed the event. The winners each gave short acceptance speeches. In addition, Maxine Hong Kingston received the 2008 Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters. The Literarian Award for Outstanding Service to the American Literary Community was awarded to publisher Barney Rosset. The ceremony and benefit dinner took place at Cipriani Wall Street in New York City