Explore how the Oregon City Reads events foster community engagement and promote meaningful conversations around literature, particularly through the lens of the selected books, “James” and “Big Jim & the White Boy.” Discuss the significance of local authors and poets in guiding these discussions and how their unique perspectives can deepen the understanding of social issues present in the texts. Reflect on how literature can be a powerful tool for addressing complex topics such as identity and race within the community. Finally, highlight the role of community libraries in facilitating these dialogues and encouraging a culture of reading and open conversation.