Spotlight64 | Battle of the Books Brings Readers Together

A district-wide celebration of books, teamwork, and school spirit brings young readers together for a fun-filled literary showdown.

Reading took centre stage across SD64 this spring as 150 students from Grades 3 to 7 came together for a joyful Battle of the Books celebration. Organized by teacher-librarians Amber Thompson of Fulford and Fernwood Elementary and Katie Brown of Salt Spring Elementary, the event brought together enthusiastic readers from Fernwood, Fulford, Mayne, Galiano, and Salt Spring Elementary schools for a district-wide literary showdown.

Battle of the Books invites students to dive into a set of selected titles over several months and then put their knowledge to the test in a friendly team competition. From December through May, students immersed themselves in eight books across three grade levels before gathering at Fernwood School on May 20 for the big event. Teams answered questions, cheered one another on, and showcased not only their reading skills, but also their teamwork, preparation, and school spirit.

Excitement built for weeks as students read as many books as they could, practiced together at lunch, and counted down to competition day. The Salt Spring Island Public Library helped make the event even more memorable by promoting Battle of the Books and purchasing extra copies of the selected titles so more students could join in. Winning teams went home with prize bags featuring gift cards from Salt Spring Books, Country Grocer, and the Pool and Recreation Centre, while every participant celebrated with a well-earned ice cream party to cap off the day.

Parent volunteers helped bring the event to life, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere for students, staff, and families, and their support was essential in making the day such a success. With so much enthusiasm from readers across the district, Battle of the Books has all the makings of a growing SD64 tradition. Organizers are already looking ahead to next year and hoping to welcome even more schools, including 64GO, into the fun.

A special thank you goes to Amber Thompson for submitting this story idea, helping celebrate the strong culture of literacy growing in SD64 schools.