By Marisa Dawson, Courtesy Photos
Creativity and literacy came together in delicious fashion recently as students at Bennington Middle School and Bennington South Middle School showcased their talents during the schools’ annual Edible Book Contest.
Now in its 10th year at Bennington Middle School, the contest challenges students to transform books into edible creations using cakes, cookies, candies, gelatin creations and more. Entries ranged from childhood classics to popular chapter books, with students carefully recreating scenes, characters and themes entirely out of food.
Konni in den Bosch, librarian for both schools and organizer of the contest, said the event continues to be a favorite tradition among students and staff alike.
“The goal of the edible book contest is to have students interact with literature in a different and unique way,” she said. “Hopefully, they will be reminded of books they loved as young kids or see a book that they want to read. It is a fun way to promote literacy. Students truly look forward to it every year.”
The contest encourages students to think beyond simply reading a story by creatively interpreting it in an entirely new format. In den Bosch said she hopes students gain a broader appreciation not only for literature, but also for each other’s creativity.
“I hope that students realize that books are a great way to build a broader view of the world,” she said. “When they see the creations by other students, they can see how others may interpret the same book or be reminded of childhood favorites. They also are able to see the talents of their fellow classmates.”
This year’s entries once again featured a wide range of imaginative ideas. One standout project involved a gelatin-based creation with intricate designs injected inside.
“This year I had a really awesome entry made with gelatin and then the student used an injection needle to put designs inside,” in den Bosch said. “That was really cool to see.”
Not every creative idea made the final cut, however.
“Well, I had students who requested to use a live fish as part of their cake,” she said with a laugh. “The answer was no. We had that happen a few years ago and the poor goldfish did not make it.”
Beyond the fun atmosphere and sweet treats, the contest also helps students strengthen important academic and creative skills.
“I think that mostly this helps students to develop creativity and comprehension by needing to translate the book into something edible,” in den Bosch said. “There have been some really unique and creative projects over the years.”
While the correlation to increased reading habits from participating in the contest is not clear, she believes the conversations sparked by the event are valuable.
“I do believe that kids do have real conversations about the books and the interpretations,” she said. “This kind of conversation is always of value.”
Hands-on projects like the Edible Book Contest also provide students opportunities to connect classroom learning with practical and artistic expression.
“Allowing students the freedom to use their creative minds helps to promote a deeper understanding of what they read is always valuable,” in den Bosch said. “Any way we can connect learning and practical skills will have a long term impact.”
Organizers also gave special thanks to local sponsors including Runza, Jimmy John’s, Cup and Cone, Square Donut, McDonald’s and the PTO for donating prizes for participants.
Check out the winners here:
Bennington Middle School
Picture Books
1- Bluey– Clara and Hazel
2- Chicka Chicka Boom Boom – Kyler and Anna
3- Curious George– Maylee
Chapter books
1- Powerless – Reese and Lucy
2- Sea of Monsters– JJ and Elliot
3- Party Pooper – Elin, Macey, and Callie
Best in Show
1- Harry Potter – William
2- If You Give a Mouse a Cookie– Cassidy and Autumn
3- Winnie the Pooh – Lola, Sloane, and Piper
People’s Choice – Harry Potter – William
Bennington South Middle School
Picture books
1) No More Monkeys Jumping on the Bed – Gabi and Emry
2) Pete the Cat – Ophelia and Scarlett
3) Rainbow Fish – Aayashaa, Evelyn, Scarlett
Chapter Books
1) Assistant to the Villain – Rory and Aleah
2) Sunkissed – Julia and Brylie
3) Hatchet – Cole, Silas, and DeClan
Best in Show
1) Dungeons and Dragons – Elijah and Elias
2) If you Give a Mouse a Cookie – Emma and Clara
3) The Very Hungry Caterpillar – Miranda, Rayna, and Natalie
People’s Choice – Pete the Cat – Ophelia and Scarlett
