It’s the time of year when McNary Heights Elementary students start to have serious conversations about reading with their classmates and friends. “How much do you read? What kind of books do you like to read? How competitive are you?” That’s because they are currently starting to form their teams for the annual Oregon Battle of the Books (OBOB).
David Lougee, ESL (English as a Second Language) Director and Librarian for the Umatilla School District is the OBOB Coordinator. This is his third year coordinating the event, which is part of Oregon’s statewide Battle of the Books. McNary students have been competing in OBOB since 2002.
Third through fifth graders are eligible to participate. Teams have a maximum of four members, with one alternate if they wish, but only four members compete in the battles. Students are encouraged to form their own teams, but occasionally teachers help students who are quiet or shy join up with a team. Library Assistants Katie McMillan and Danette Prindle have introduced all students in upper grades to the OBOB process. “We want as many students as possible to be involved,” Lougee said. Last year, McNary had 34 teams compete. Teams must be established by November 17 th , but as soon as they form their team and turn in the paperwork, students can start checking out the Battle books, which are in the library.
A total of 16 books are on the reading list this year. Lougee said most teams divide up the work, with each of the four members reading four books. “One great thing about OBOB is that it encourages students to read a variety of books, especially if they usually read just one genre,” he said.
On Friday, November 17 th , Lougee hopes to have a Battle of the Books bracket unveiling, where he announces each team and then places their name on a large paper chart, another fun way to get students excited. The battles will begin in January, with the winning team determined around the end of February.
What does Lougee love the most about OBOB? Well, several things, he says. “I just love the enthusiasm for books during this time, the interactions I get to have with the kids and the excitement they have about the competition. We’re not just in it to win it, we want as much fun for as many kids as possible, but it would be fantastic if one of our teams went on to win regionals or state.”