By Bruce Karnick

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Growing up, the phrase “reading is fundamental” was all over the place. Reading IS a fundamental skill and when students struggle with reading, every other aspect of their time in school becomes significantly more difficult. Look at what you are doing right this second, you are reading. For some, getting this far would be a struggle and that thought alone should put a sad feeling deep in the pit of your stomach. Everyone deserves the opportunity to read! Reading gives knowledge and knowledge is power.

For February, Hastings Reads is filling the month with activities for all ages. Hastings Reads chooses books to not only encourage reading, but to encourage learning while reading. Learning something outside of topics learned in school.

Here are the details from the Hastings Reads press release: This year’s theme is “Native American Voices: Celebration and Resiliency,” and the book selections are Firekeeper’s Daughter by Angeline Boulley (adults/teens), Indian No More by Charlene Willing McManis (middle grades), and Fry Bread by Kevin Noble Maillard (elementary grades). Books can be checked out from the library, purchased at any bookstore, or purchased in town at the YMCA and Tilden.

February is filled with events, such as an author visit from Angeline Boulley, author of Firekeeper’s Daughter—soon to be a Netflix show. Boulley will be at HHS for a lyceum on February 15 and will speak that evening at 6:30 in the Hastings Arts Center. The event is free and open to all. Other events include a visit from U of M professor Dr. Brenda Child, who will talk about Native American boarding schools; visits to the library from Native American photographers, storytellers, and drummers; a family event at the YMCA; book discussions; and documentaries at the library and the senior center. Detailed information can be found on the Hastings Reads website and Facebook page.

Hastings Reads is a community- wide reading program that seeks to encourage reading and discussion of books and the ways in which they can help us understand the lives and experiences of ourselves and others. Everyone is invited to read the books and participate in the events. Let’s start reading and talking today!

Due to COVID 19, community members are asked to wear masks to Hastings Reads events and to follow Hastings Reads on Facebook for updated information on locations and online options in place of cancellations.

To learn more about Hastings Reads, visit https://sites.google. com/ site/ mnhastingsreads/ 2011theme