Battle of the Books

Swansboro Middle School Battle of the Books

Coached by Mrs. Sharron Mohr, the school librarian.

Questions: sharron.mohr@onslow.k12.nc.us

2022 SBMS 3rd Place at OCS competition. 

Swansboro Middle School Battle of the Books Timeline...

Spring: Book List Posted, start reading. The goa isl to read them all and specialize in 5 of the books. 

August-September:  Open practices before and after school. 

October: Tryouts to find the 12 top students to form a team.

November-January: Reread books as needed practice as team. 

February: Preparing for competition day. 

Philosophy

The purpose of the Battle of the Books program is to encourage reading by all
students at the middle school level. Students, regardless of ability, are exposed
to quality literature representing a variety of literary styles and viewpoints by
prominent authors in the area of young adult literature. The game format creates
interest and excitement in reading. Through the fun and excitement of the
competition, students improve reading skills, mature in their choices of reading
materials, and acquire a broader knowledge base. 

History
North Carolina's Battle of the Books can be traced back to a public radio program
in Chicago in the 1940s originated by Ruth Harshaw. Librarians exposed to the
original show reconstructed the game to encourage reading today.
Michael Leonard, an Illinois native, first introduced the contest in Onslow County
when he accepted the position of Children's Librarian for the Onslow County
Public Library. His rationale for placing it at the sixth grade level was the dearth
of activities in the public library and in the public schools for this aged child. In
1981, Onslow County Public Library sponsored the first North Carolina Battle of
the Books contest for sixth graders.

The North Carolina Association of School Librarians assumed sponsorship of
Battle of the Books in 1991. In 2000, the North Carolina School Library Media
Association (NCSLMA) became a sponsor of Battle of the Books, and
independent schools became a region for competition. The first state
competition of Battle of the Books was held in 2001-2002. NCSLMA coordinates
the program on a statewide basis.