Lower School Readers Digest 173 Books

The 2026 Battle of the Books brought Grades 3–8 students together for a fun and friendly literary showdown, one for Grades 3–5 and one for Middle Grades.

This reader's rundown encouraged students to broaden their horizons by adding to their reading list, see their commitments through by finishing the books they started, grow in their literary analysis, and enjoy reading both as a personal challenge and a collaborative activity. 

 

 

ICSB Librarian Mrs. Tricia Fraser launched the program five years ago to give Lower School book lovers a chance to shine and dive deeper into novels, while encouraging others to expand their reading routines. Each student read at least four titles, while teams collectively covered up to twelve books. In total, students completed 173 books in preparation for this year’s event.

 

 

During the competition, teams took part in quick-thinking quiz rounds inspired by Family Feud. Working within a 30-second window, teammates compared ideas and confirmed answers before the captains delivered the final response. Each round felt like a fast-paced quiz sprint, testing memory, attention to detail, and collaboration.

 

 

The results showed just how evenly matched the teams were. In the Grades 3–5 division, five teams finished tied with two wins and two losses each. Final placements were determined by average scores.

 

 

The Middle Grades championship matchup also ended in a tie, reflecting the depth of preparation and the close margins between teams.

 

 

The event concluded with a pizza party followed by an award ceremony.

 

 

Awards were handed out to celebrate the many students who worked hard the weeks leading up to the competition, reading, discussing their findings, and preparing together.

Thank you, Mrs. Fraser, for helping our students develop a rhythm of reading and a love of literature! Congratulations to all who participated in this year’s Battle of the Books and brought their best book knowledge to every round!