Inspiring Reading: The Story of an 8th Grade Student

Passion for Books: Bùi Lưu Bảo Khánh, a Reading Culture Ambassador in Ho Chi Minh City
Bùi Lưu Bảo Khánh, an eighth-grader at Nguyễn Văn Trỗi Middle School in Gò Vấp District, Ho Chi Minh City, has been recognized as one of the 10 reading culture ambassadors of the city. Khánh has had a lifelong passion for books, seeing them as a companion throughout his journey.

Upon his selection as a reading culture ambassador, Khánh expressed his desire to inspire others: “I hope to encourage those who haven’t yet discovered the joy of reading to do so, and for those who have just started, to deepen their love and read more. This way, they can gain the knowledge needed to pursue their passions, dreams, and aspirations.”

Preferring Books Over Toys

Khánh’s mother, Lưu Nguyệt Thanh, recalls that he began reading and writing at age five. Since third grade, Khánh has shown a preference for books over toys, often asking his parents to take him to bookstores instead of toy shops.

“Until now, Khánh’s father has been his primary educator, teaching him everything from school subjects to calligraphy and piano. His father, who was quadriplegic, passed away in July 2022 due to a stomach hemorrhage. I was worried about how Khánh would cope, but he surprised me by excelling in his studies. Whenever he misses his father, he turns to books for comfort and reminds himself to work hard. Gifts he receives are placed on his father’s altar, along with his certificates,” shares Ms. Thanh.

Having cultivated the habit of reading from a young age, Khánh often visits bookstores after exams to find new books. “He gets so engrossed in reading that he forgets to eat,” his mother adds.

A Multitalented Student

Khánh spends about 30 minutes to an hour daily reading. “I am particularly fond of poetry by Chế Lan Viên and Xuân Diệu. Their romantic and unique styles are very appealing. I also read essays to enhance my literary knowledge, which helps me apply different writing styles in my studies,” he says.

His teacher, Phan Nguyễn Sĩ Phú, notes that Khánh is not only a top student in his class but also in the entire eighth grade. “Khánh actively participates in school activities. He has a talent for writing, drawing, especially calligraphy, and often serves as the school’s MC, delivering speeches on the benefits of reading. Beyond his academic success, Khánh is a role model for his peers,” Mr. Phú adds.

In February 2023, Khánh participated in the “Growing Up with Books” contest, where his 15-page entry won first prize for grades 8-9.

(Source: tuoitre.vn)