FAQ

How does a student participate?

A student participates by 1) reading from the book list provided for that year’s Oregon Battle of the Books, 2) discussing those titles, and 3) competing in battles with their teammates.

What is a battle like?

Teams take turns answering trivia questions related to the books.   Teams will respond to eight "in which book" questions and eight "content questions. Correct answers earn points and the team with the most points at the end of the battle wins.  Here’s a link to a video of an in-person battle: OBOB Elementary Quarter Final Battle, 2018 - YouTube .

Which books are on the list this year?

See the list here: OBOB Title List 3rd-5th Grade Division 

Is OBOB competitive? My student likes to read for fun!

The competitive drive varies by team.  Many teams have fun planning team “uniforms” or hats and enjoy the trivia-type game.  Other teams devote lots of time to story details so that they can answer even the hardest questions.  Ultimately, it is up to the team to decide how competitive they want to be.  In any case, the battles are run in a fun and supportive way where sportsmanship, growth, and integrity are valued.

Where can I get the books?

Public libraries, book fairs, and local book stores will be apprised of the titles and will most likely have them available.  Many local book stores will have dedicated sections or shelves devoted to the Oregon Battle of the Books.  A Children’s Place and Powells usually have lots of copies.  It is typically very easy to order books through A Children’s Place (NE 14th and Fremont) and Broadway Books (NE 17th and Broadway).

Do students have to read all the books?

How booking reading is distributed amongst teammates is up to the team.  The questions in the battles cover all sixteen books. The goal is to have all the books read by at least one person on the team by the first battle so that the team is prepared to answer questions. Many students read only about half of the books. There are a few readers who complete the whole list, but there are some who might only be able to read four of the books. 

Is an audiobook considered “reading”?

Audiobooks, eBooks, hard copy books, read alone, read together – it’s all just fine. Battle of the Books is about fostering a love of reading and encouraging students to explore different genres.

How many kids are on a team?

Usually four. This is the recommended number.  You can have as few as two students on a team, and as many as five students on a team.  BUT, no more than four students can battle during any particular battle.  Students may not substitute teammates during a battle.

I’m looking for a team, how can I find one?

Most teams form through connections in current or past classes.  If you have a partial team and are looking for another teammate or are an individual looking for a team,  submit your information at the Team Formation Help page.  We will do our best to match students together.

When will the dates of the battles and practice battles be announced?

Dates & times for practice and competition battles should come out in early January when we have a firm idea of the number of teams competing.

I have an INFREQUENTLY asked question. How can I contact you?

Submit questions via email to alameda.obob@gmail.com.