Back for a second year, the Scappoose Public Library is gearing up to host its Reading Dragon Tournament.

For the past two years, children who visit the library have been able to earn up to two Reading Dragon cards each week as an incentive for reading. Now armed with a fleet of giant literary lizards, kids are invited to play in the Reading Dragon Tournament from 11 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 10, at the library, located at 52469 S.E. Second St. in Scappoose.

Reading Dragon cards are similar to Pokemon cards, with each dragon corresponding to one of three types: fire, water and plant. The cards can be played against each other in a rock-paper-scissors style game. First designed by the Dover Public Library in Ohio as a fun way to encourage childhood literacy, the game has now expanded to libraries across the country.

At the Scappoose Public Library tournament, participants will compete to obtain the exclusive golden and silver Dragon King cards. Everyone will also receive the 2025 Tournament Card, which can only be scored at this event.

Those who haven’t started their Reading Dragon card collections don’t have to worry — children who come to the tournament without any cards will get to choose five cards to start out with.

The event is aimed at those under 18 and is free to attend.