More than 1,500 Howard County public, private, and home-schooled fifth-graders will participate in an academic competition that tests their knowledge of 15 books in a lively arena setting. During the battles, the student teams and their coach are asked 50 questions related to a direct quote from a character, a passage taken directly from the book, details about an illustration or picture, or a statement about something that happens in the book. This event is known to improve reading comprehension and build vocabulary among fifth-grade students in an unique and exciting way that also teaches leadership, teamwork and good sportsmanship.
While all teams are invited to compete outdoors under one (covered) location, a virtual location will be made available to teams who wish to participate together online. Organizers will continue to prioritize the safety and enjoyment of this event for all teams, coaches, families, and staff volunteers.