Hocker Grove Wins Battle of the Books

On January 12, teams from all Shawnee Mission middle schools gathered to put their book-related knowledge to the test in the Battle of the Books competition.

Battle of the Books is a program designed to encourage reading and give recognition to students who like to read.

Teams were asked trivia questions based on 10 books from the 2021-2022 list of William Allen White Children’s Book Award nominees. School librarians compiled the questions for the competition.

Students formed teams in the fall and began reading the books, practicing possible questions, and developing strategies. On some teams each competitor read all the books. On other teams each member chose to read a small selection.

Westridge eighth grader Geneva Goodwin shared, “It’s been fun to meet new people and read a bunch of books.”

One of the best parts is the friendly competition, Ella Siengsukon, Indian Hills seventh grader explained. “I’m not really competitive, I don’t like doing athletic stuff, but this is right up my alley,” Siengsukon added.

Librarian Carol Edds expressed that all the students are winners in her eyes. “Reading and literacy is so important, it influences everything. If they continue their interest in books and reading, they will be set up for success in school and in life.”

In the end, a team of Hocker Grove middle school students triumphed, winning the championship trophy and defending a three-year winning streak.

Members of the winning team included:

• Jack Kronawitter (8^th grade)
• Halley Vincent (7^th grade)
• Cristian Pio Reyes (7^th grade)
• Natasha Ramirez Franco (7^th grade)
• Emily Miller (7^th grade)