Reading is a critical skill for helping kids start, and stay, on a path to success in school and beyond. Across Oregon, students in early grades are still behind in reading skills as a result of the pandemic, which is a concern not only for educators and parents but for the entire community.

This year more children in Hood River and Wasco Counties will start the year with books thanks to First Book of Hood River and Wasco County. Keep reading to find out how to recieve books or particpate in this years challenge for local book clubs.

Columbia Gorge Community College Library and Learning Commons is hosting a Community Read of bestselling author and CGCC instructor Tina Ontiveros' memoir rough house Thursday, Sept. 23 at 6 p.m.