The person who "spreads the fire" of reading culture

The person who

Phuong Nhi (second from the right) receives books for building a library at Tran Mai Ninh Secondary School.

With the perspective that "There are no bad books, only books that you haven't found yet," in her first participation in the "Reading Culture Ambassador" competition, Le Thi Phuong Nhi, born in 2012, a student at Tran Mai Ninh Secondary School (Hac Thanh Ward), shared her thoughts on the book "Rainbow Warrior" - a famous work by Indonesian author Andrea Hirata. It's a book that Phuong Nhi cherishes. The book isn't densely philosophical, but rather a simple yet moving story. Phuong Nhi introduced these stories in a relatable and memorable way through a video with an expressive and gentle voice. With her investment in her entry and her dedication to spreading reading culture, Phuong Nhi won first prize in the Thanh Hoa Province Reading Culture Ambassador competition in 2025.

Meeting Phuong Nhi at her home, we were quite impressed with her open study space, combined with attractively arranged and easy-to-see bookshelves. Discussing the book she shared in the Reading Culture Ambassador competition, Phuong Nhi said: “Books are a treasure trove of human knowledge. Reading helps us understand more about a person's soul, their living circumstances, and the lessons and experiences they have. From what I learned from the book 'Rainbow Warrior,' I want to spread many positive values to everyone.”

“This book is my reward for achieving good grades in school. The book features a character I admire: Ms. Mus, who has inspired me and perhaps everyone who has read it. The lessons and teachings that Ms. Mus imparts to her students in the story are also lessons for me and a message for everyone holding this book in their hands. Those teachings have helped me become a better person,” Nhi further shared.

Along with moral teachings and life lessons, the book tells the story of poor students who lack access to books, studying in difficult conditions, and in schools that could collapse at any moment. Through this, the book spreads a message, hoping to ignite the hope of education for children, especially those in disadvantaged areas.

From this very story, Phuong Nhi formed a grand dream: to bring books to children, especially disadvantaged children in remote areas – where the journey to knowledge is still fraught with difficulties and shortages. Not stopping at personal feelings, Phuong Nhi gradually realized her ideal through concrete and creative actions.

With a passion for reading, Nhi always chooses books as her reward and builds her own bookshelf. She enthusiastically shares stories and lessons she's learned from books with her parents, siblings, and friends, spreading her love of reading to her family and friends. At the same time, Nhi actively participates in book donation and library building activities at school and in the community. In particular, Nhi has self-studied and honed her speaking, presentation, and reading skills to realize her dream of creating a YouTube channel and postcards introducing and discussing books. At school, Nhi participates in the "Little Corner of Literature" club, reading postcards about books and lessons with her friends.

When asked why she loves books so much, Nhi replied with endearing sincerity: "Reading helps me feel relaxed and at ease, and it also helps me broaden my thinking and gain a better understanding of life. Thanks to reading, I have more vocabulary to write, to speak, and to confidently express myself." These words are not empty platitudes, but are affirmed by her excellent academic achievements and outstanding communication skills.

Phuong Nhi's homeroom teacher, Ms. Tran Thi Hien, said: "Phuong Nhi is an excellent student, well-behaved, and actively participates in school and class activities and movements. Nhi has a talent for expression and excellent networking skills. She is not only diligent but also knows how to spread many positive things to those around her. When the class built an open library in the lobby on the second floor of the school so that students could read books during recess, Nhi not only proactively contributed books but also actively encouraged others to contribute books and help organize the library. In particular, Nhi and some friends created postcard programs introducing books and inspiring stories about life and learning."

The title of Thanh Hoa Province Reading Culture Ambassador is not only a well-deserved reward for Phuong Nhi's efforts, but also a testament to the power of books – when they pass through a child's soul, they can become a driving force for action, even inspiring great ideals. It also affirms that books are not only a source of knowledge but also a companion, a "lighting rod" to help children confidently live beautiful and meaningful lives.

Text and photos: Quynh Chi

Source: https://baothanhhoa.vn/nguoi-truyen-lua-van-hoa-doc-257402.htm