For many middle schoolers, finding a place to belong can be just as important as academic growth. This year, through the joy of reading and the spirit of teamwork, Battle of the Books (BOB) gave nearly 500 students from across the Lake Washington School District a chance to do both.
With funding support from the Lake Washington Schools Foundation, this beloved district-wide program continues to grow—encouraging students to read for enjoyment, connect with peers, and build lifelong skills through a shared literary adventure.
A Joyful Way to Spark Reading—and Connection
Hosted at 11 middle schools including Kamiakin, Rose Hill, Kirkland Middle, Timberline, and International Community School, Battle of the Books invites students in grades 6–8 to read from a curated list of twelve high-interest titles and compete in quiz-style battles with their peers. The book list—thoughtfully selected by LWSD middle school librarians—reflects a balance of genres, diverse characters, and broad student appeal.
Promotion usually begins in the spring, with librarians visiting 5th grade classrooms to introduce the titles to incoming middle schoolers. Outreach continues into the fall during library orientation lessons to all middle school students. Monthly meetings held at each school give students the opportunity to form teams, practice answering questions, and build camaraderie around the shared joy of reading.
“This is the perfect introduction to middle school,” shared one school librarian. “Many of our 6th graders start the year looking for their tribe. For some, their BOB teammates become their first real friends, and those friendships often last through 8th grade.”
From forming teams and reading throughout the year, to participating in school-wide competitions, and finally cheering on representatives at the district-wide battle, students immerse themselves in books, teamwork, and spirited competition.
This year, Kamiakin Middle School’s team “Very Old Berry” emerged as the district champions after a close, thrilling contest on March 25 at Kirkland Middle School.
Equity Through Literacy
While some schools have robust budgets for library materials, others face tighter constraints. The LWSF grant ensures that every school can purchase the full set of Battle of the Books titles, providing an equitable opportunity for participation across the district.
“At Rose Hill, the twelve BOB titles were the most checked out books of the year,” noted librarian Micaela Gunderson. “That’s a huge indicator of success—not just among participants, but across the student body.”
The ripple effect is clear: students who weren’t even part of a team picked up BOB books because their peers recommended them.
More Than a Competition—A Growth Journey
Beyond the test of knowledge, the program offers moments of personal growth. One librarian shared a story of a 7th grade team that narrowly missed first place: “One student was devastated. But just days later, he rallied his teammates with a message: ‘Next year, we have an even better chance of winning. Who’s in?’ Each teammate replied with enthusiasm. That’s the kind of resilience and camaraderie we hope to build.”
Others observed how teams formed new bonds and supported one another—sometimes even comforting each other after tough losses. These authentic moments of connection underscored the deeper impact of the program.
At some schools, tie-breaker rounds brought out students’ determination and collaboration, while at others, friendly rivalries and last-minute reading sessions created unforgettable memories. Teachers and staff joined in too—acting as judges and cheering students on during the battles, reinforcing the shared joy and community spirit behind the event.
Looking Ahead
The librarians behind this powerful program are already planning for next year, incorporating student feedback to ensure the book list continues to engage a wide range of interests and voices. The goal? To keep building excitement around reading, and to ensure every middle schooler feels like they belong.
To the students who picked up a book, joined a team, and gave it their all—we’re proud of you. You’ve proven that reading can be an adventure, a bridge to friendship, and a celebration of learning.
Congratulations to all participants, and here’s to another great year ahead!
Battle of the Books is made possible by generous donors to the Lake Washington Schools Foundation, whose support ensures that students across the district have equal access to both the books and the opportunities to engage, connect, and thrive.
