Martha Currie Elementary reclaims Surrey Schools Book of the Year Battle

Martha Currie Elementary has won Surrey Schools’ 2026 Book of the Year Battle, reclaiming the title it first earned in the contest’s inaugural year, 2024.

The third annual literacy competition brought together intermediate students from schools across Surrey and White Rock. Martha Currie’s team of six Grade 6 and 7 students was tested on the 10 nominees for the 2026 Book of the Year awards.

George Greenaway Elementary in Cloverdale won the second annual contest in 2025. Teacher-librarian Dil McDonough said Martha Currie’s students showed strong commitment, teamwork and enthusiasm for reading.

Competitors had to retain details about plot and characters from books including Lost at Windy River by Tina Rathberger, We Are Big Time by Hena Khan and the 2026 winner, Lion Dancers by Cai Tse. Students prepare independently under the contest rules, without teacher assistance.

More information and the 2026 nominee list are available at surreyschools.ca.