Reading takes center stage at the annual PWCS Battle of the Books competition

Reading takes the spotlight as students put their knowledge, teamwork, and a love of books on full display during the annual Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) Battle of the Books competition.

Henderson Elementary School emerged victorious after an intense final round, while Kyle Wilson Elementary School and Glenkirk Elementary School tied for second in a hard-fought battle following an extraordinary 17 rounds of play—exceeding the competition’s typical 10 rounds.

Designed to spark a love of reading and strengthen literacy skills through friendly competition, Battle of the Books challenges students to explore a wide range of genres and authors. Along the way, they build comprehension, critical thinking, and collaboration skills.

“Battle of the Books sparks curiosity and motivation, helping students discover the sheer pleasure of a great story. The competition highlights that comprehension grows best when readers talk, question, and learn from one another and the text,” shared Diane Stinson, supervisor of library media programs and research for PWCS. “At its heart, Battle of the Books fosters lifelong readers by making reading meaningful and memorable.”

Participating schools began the journey to the championship through semifinal cluster rounds held across the division. This year, four cluster competitions included up to 12 schools each. The top three teams from each cluster advanced to the finals, where 12 schools competed for the championship title.

The final competition, held at the Hylton Performing Arts Center, brings together fourth and fifth-grade students from across PWCS. Teams demonstrate literary knowledge, quick thinking, and teamwork as they respond to questions based on a curated reading list.

“This competition fosters a really great love of reading,” said Anamaria Wyatt, librarian at Glenkirk Elementary. “They also connect as teammates among different grade levels and have a lot of fun.”

For students, teamwork is just as meaningful as the competition itself.

“My favorite part is that it’s not just one person — it’s everyone doing their part,” said Alyson Ricks, a fifth-grade student at Glenkirk and team captain for the second year.

Librarians also see the lasting impact of the program.

“I love that the kids get interested in reading and then they love books,” said Courtney Taubken, librarian at Tyler Elementary School. “It brings out their competitive spirit to want to do the best that they can, show school pride, and be proud of all of their accomplishments.”

Parents say the experience extends well beyond the competition.

“It has gotten her to read a wide variety of books that she would not normally have read,” said Laura VanDyke, parent of a fifth-grade student at Glenkirk. “It has provided her with a group of kids to talk with about books, which was not something she realized she could do and has found that to be enjoyable.”

Congratulations to all participants for their hard work.