2025 Battle Recap

This year, we celebrated the 6th annual Battle of the Books: Middle School Edition! A total of 34 teams — comprised of 143 students from 11 schools and one homeschool group — competed for a chance to win Barnes & Noble gift cards, medals, author-signed books, and the star trophy.

After a series of exciting battles, our 2025 champions are: Matthew, Madeline, Connor, Moira, and Alex — also known as the Ballistic Bookheads from Old Donation School!

Special Author Visit with Nicole Chen

Thanks to the Friends of the Virginia Beach Public Library, participants had the unique opportunity to meet Nicole Chen, author of It’s Boba Time for Pearl Li!. She shared insights into her writing journey, discussed the publishing process, read an excerpt from her latest book, and signed books and bookmarks. Students also enjoyed delicious boba from a local shop, making the event even more memorable.

2026 book titles and program details will be released on October 1, 2025.