06:15The competition was structured to test participants’ knowledge of selected literary works, requiring them to identify the correct titles and authors based on specific quotes or scenarios. The format was a head-to-head contest where the first team to accumulate 125 points would win, with five points for correctly identifying both the title and author, three points for the title alone, and none for just the author’s name.

05:34Questions spanned a wide range of topics, from character speeches to unique traits and plot-driven challenges. For example, Wat’s Edge successfully identified a book featuring a character obsessed with roller coasters and another learning the importance of kindness. Their performance was consistent and reflective of deep engagement with the material.

24:22In contrast, American Heritage’s “Radioactive Readers” encountered hurdles with several questions, such as those involving a character’s science project mishap and another featuring a character referencing Franklin D. Roosevelt in a speech. Despite these setbacks, they managed to hold their ground, illustrating their commitment and knowledge, even though they ultimately finished in second place.

The format not only tested their recall abilities but also their comprehension of the stories and the messages within. This educational approach underscored the importance of reading and comprehension in the students’ academic journey.

27:24The event was not solely about winning; it was also about fostering teamwork and enthusiasm for reading among students. Team members from both American Heritage and Wat’s Edge expressed pride in their achievements and the camaraderie developed through the competition. Valentina, a member of the winning Wat’s Edge team, reflected on her surprise and pride in their victory, noting the unexpected nature of their win and the joy of being part of such a dynamic event.

02:30The competition also extended to the middle school division, where Bach Middle School of the Arts’ “Plot Twisters” triumphed over Watson B. Duncan Middle School’s “Bazinga Bananas.” This division was equally spirited, with students displaying significant literary knowledge. The questions posed involved identifying books based on themes of family, character relationships, and unique plot developments, such as a character eating raw bird meat or another reflecting on truths and half-truths.

28:59The middle school results announcement was marked by pride and celebration, with Bach Middle School emerging as the winners. Participants from both teams were commended for their dedication and teamwork. A student from Watson B. Duncan Middle emphasized the importance of cooperation over competition, highlighting the value of a supportive environment.

31:42Throughout the event, organizers acknowledged the vital role of media specialists and teacher sponsors in encouraging a culture of reading. Ana Rizzo, from the School Library Media Services, praised the students’ preparation and engagement, noting their impressive accuracy in answering questions.