by Mani S, Grade 9

When I read a book, I feel like I am travelling into a new world full of mysteries. At other times, while I am lost in thought, the magical world that someone else has created invades my space and I become intrigued by what might come next. As I read, I feel like everything is happening right in front of my eyes. It feels like I am not just watching a movie, but living it. Ironically, I find it difficult to help you visualize my feelings with my words!

Once I start a book, I feel incomplete until I finish it, which is why I do not like being interrupted when I am reading. In my mind, I become the main character of the book. I feel all her emotions – the anger, the joy and the sadness. If something awful happens in the book, I wish I could rewrite it and make it better.

I have often discussed with my friends whether books are better than movies. I believe that books are better because they are so very detailed. We use our imagination when we read books rather than when we watch movies.

Many people find their passion in different things like sports and art; but for me, reading is my passion. It heals me whenever I am overwhelmed. Books are my best friends because they teach me many things; they understand me and help me express myself beautifully! 

Reading has encouraged me to pen down my own feelings. Someday, I wish I could become a writer and heal others with my words. I feel that someone in some part of the world might connect with what I write and feel about my books the way I feel about others’ books.

I believe that if we want to live in a world full of peace and joy, we must read more books to understand each other and to understand ourselves. I have had the opportunity to read many books because of the generosity of our Jhamtse family around the world who have supported us. I want to thank all the wonderful people who have donated books to our Community and our language teachers who have helped children like me discover the magical world of words.