On Saturday, April 27, YISS had 27 fourth and fifth graders journey to GSIS for the annual Battle of the Books. They were joined by several other international schools, all looking to test their knowledge of ten shared books each student needed to read. The books were a mixture of this year’s Morning Calm nominees and “buddy” books selected by Korean International Librarian Association members.

The process to be involved in Battle of the Books began for some students as early as last November. Reading ten books and knowing them intimately is the key to the competition. Mr. Redmond, the ES librarian, prepared study materials and guided students through the preparation process, including a third trimester ASA. The 27 students were split into two teams: Red and Blue.

In addition, Mrs. Trevino, Mrs. Palisuri, and Mrs. Garrick accompanied the students and guided them through the day’s competitions. Out of five initial matches, the Red team’s record was 4-1 and the Blue team’s record was 2-3, with the Red team landing in the semi-finals, where they valiantly battled. GSIS and TCIS contested the final in which GSIS triumphed.

More so than just competition, Battle of the Books was a great experience for students to learn dedication, preparation, teamwork, and most importantly, develop their love of reading.