• The Battle of the Books is a reading competition designed to improve reading and comprehension while building enthusiasm for reading using a fun and unique competition format. Students will compete in teams to demonstrate their knowledge of 10 preselected books.

    Students in 4th and 5th grade are eligible to compete. Students need to read a minimum of three of the "Battle" books by January 24, 2024 to be eligible to serve on a team. However, students are encouraged to read as many of the “Battle” books as possible.  Students may find the books in their school library, the public library, at bookstores, and online.  The competitions will begin in late February with the finals before spring break. 

    The ELA teachers and librarian will help students finalize teams in late January. Students are expected to select a team name and a team captain. Students may practice together with their team at school or at home. However, most of the work can be done individually.

    This year’s books were selected from the 2024-25 Volunteer State Book Award nominee list and previous lists. These books include a variety of genres, reading levels, and themes. 

    1. One and Only Ruby by Katherine Applegate

    2. Iceberg by Jennifer Nielsen

    3. Finally Seen by Kelly Yang

    4. Squished by Megan Wagner Lloyd and Michelle Mee Nutter

    5. Just Gus by McCall Hoyle

    6. Nugly by M.C. Ross

    7. Amari and the Night Brothers by B.B. Alston

    8. The Wild Robot by Peter Brown

    9. My Life as a Potato by Arianne Costner

    10.  Linked by Gordon Korman

    If you have any questions about the Battle of the Books, please feel free to email me at jennifer.bowers@knoxschools.org.