An Introduction to My Involvement with the Battle of the Books
In this role, I have not only connected the young readers with an author whose work is applicable to the list of books we must read but also actively participated in reading the 20 books alongside them, immersing myself in the literary journey. Our program is currently in the process of forming an official team within my school.
Beyond the traditional scope of the program, we have upgraded our club practices to also allow questions that open us up to crucial conversations on important themes and issues embedded within the books. These discussions have encompassed serious topics that have resulted in open, candid conversations and a new sense of understanding perspective.
Through these conversations, I have facilitated a safe and inclusive space for students to explore complex societal and cultural issues, encouraging them to think critically and empathetically. This experience has reinforced my commitment to promoting reading and literacy while championing diversity, social awareness, and meaningful dialogue.
As a coach for Battle of the Books in Durham County Public Schools, I've had the privilege of working with a diverse group of 30 middle school students across three grades, all hailing from an underfunded, low-income demographic. This opportunity has allowed me to return to my roots, as I previously served as the club's captain during my 8th-grade year.
Donna Barber Higuera
In September 2023, I attended a Rick Riordan Q&A session in Seattle, moderated by Donna Barba Higuera. Knowing that one of her books was a Battle of the Books title, I reached out to her on Instagram, and she kindly responded with questions about the program and my work with the school. After the event, she generously stayed to sign books and took the time to engage in conversation about literacy and education. Her enthusiasm made the experience especially meaningful, reinforcing the profound impact authors have on young readers and the communities that support them.
Thoughts on Sharing the “Scary” Stuff
As an adult, I can acknowledge that some things that have been happening in the news and in the world, have been very scary. I, like many others, have grown fearful of what is happening and the darker days ahead. But when you work with kids, you have to be the adult, the unafraid one, even when, especially when, you want to go home, lock your doors, and never come out.
Unfortunately, you also have to be the one that opens up those scary doors and shows them what's inside. You have to make the conscious decision of what you discuss and how candid you want that discussion to be. You have to choose how prepared these kids are going to be when they enter the real world and acknowledge that if you don't teach them, someone else will.
So while often I am afraid, I do choose to answer the scary questions. And I try to do it as honestly as I can. Below are some of the topics that we have had unrestricted discussions on as a team:
Racism in our own races, Genesis Begins Again by Alicia D. Williams
Culture and how it shapes us, The Last Cuentista by Donna Barba Higuera
Religious Violence, Other Words from Home by Jasmine Warga
Protagonists that identify as having identities often seen as the minority, Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky by Kwame Mbalia