I have been wanting to participate in a read-a-thon for a while now, but I always seem to hear about them too late, either after they have started or months later! Either that, or I’m completely swamped with work and classes. I was relieved to see that I’m not the only one with this problem. Sophie over at Blame Chocolate (if you haven’t checked her out, she’s great!) is breaking all of the rules and participating in a read-a-thon that took place in April, and I’ve decided to join her!

The theme? OWL Exams! You know, the Ordinary Wizarding Levels from Harry Potter. Each subject from Hogwarts has a prompt for a book to read. This was originally started by Book Roast (find the original video announcement here) and even had its own letter announcement (too cute!) to explain the rules. So that I could have it in one place, I have the themes here:

Ancient Runes: A book with a symbol on the cover
Arithmancy: Read a book with a number on the cover or in the title
Astronomy: Read a science fiction novel
Care of Magical Creatures: Read a book that includes magical creatures Or Features a magical creature on the cover
Charms: Read a fantasy book
Defense Against the Dark Arts: Book about/featuring secret societies/clubs.
Divination: Read a book featuring prophecies
Herbology: Read a book with a nature related word in the title
History of Magic: Read a historical fiction
Muggle Studies: Read a muggle non-fiction book
Potions: Read a book about/with alchemy
Transfiguration: Read a book that deals with transfiguration/shapeshifting or similar theme Or A book with a cat on the cover

I have decided to read to following books to match the subjects, though I admit this might change a little, and for the life of me I couldn’t think of a book for potions, so if you have a suggestion, I’m all ears!

The challenge will be taking place over the month of September and participants are graded!

The following grades are awarded for the overall OWLs performance:
Pass grades:
Outstanding– sit (and pass) at least 5 OWLs
Exceeded Expectations – sit (and pass) at least 3 OWLs
Acceptable – sit (and pass) at least 2 OWLs
Fail grades:
Poor – sit only one OWL
Dreadful – start but not finish any OWLs tasks
Troll – do not show up at your OWLs examinations

Don’t let us do this alone, feel free to join in too!