Memphis, TN – Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) is excited to highlight our latest initiative, “Battle of the Books”.  The reading incentive program, launched in November 2024, is designed to spark a passion for literacy among middle and high school students. Inspired by the beloved “Book It!” initiative, which focuses on students K-6, “Battle of the Books” expands this concept to engage students in grades 7-12, encouraging them to read more, explore new genres, and develop lifelong reading habits.

For educators like Mrs. Detra N. Holmes, 7th-grade Science teacher from Germantown Middle School, this initiative is a welcome addition. Having participated in “Book It!” as a child, she understands firsthand the impact of making reading an exciting and rewarding experience. “I love this initiative,” Holmes shared. “As a teacher, I emphasize the importance of reading every day, but this program makes it even more exciting for students.” Through “Battle of the Books,” students are encouraged to set personalized reading goals and explore books that genuinely interest them. Whether they choose to read lengthy books like “Twilight,” light enjoyable reading like “Diary of a Wimpy Kid,” or nonfiction selections like “American Murder: The Parasite in the South,” the goal is to help them develop a consistent reading habit.

Mrs. Holmes has already noticed a shift in her students' enthusiasm. Taking her class to the library, students select books and set small, manageable goals—such as reading 10 pages a night and summarizing their progress. “Every student is at a different place in their reading journey,” Mrs. Holmes explained. “Some naturally love books and feel good for being supported in their interest, while others need encouragement. But once they start and see their classmates reading, it creates a ripple effect.”

“Battle of the Books” offers monthly reward certificates to students who achieve their monthly set reading goals. Each certificate awards students a chicken wings meal with a side and a drink, awarded from a local Memphis restaurant. MSCS has partnered with our generous community partners to deliver these certificates. Partners include:

• Crumpy’s Hot Wings
• Perkins Restaurant & Bakery
• Rayford’s All-N-1 Hot Wings
• The Original Uncle Lou’s Southern Kitchen

Below are images of students from Mrs. Holmes' 7th- grade Germantown Middle School classroom receiving their certificates for November – February from The Original Uncle Lou’s Southern Kitchen.

Teachers can continue to sign up for their classroom and track their progress throughout the program until March 31st.

If you have a story about a MSCS student, teacher, or school to highlight, please email us at [email protected]. Include the school name, story details, and an SCSK12.ORG email for follow-up.

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