What would you like to say to young readers?

(GLO) - In the flow of life, there are old habits that nurture the soul, creating enduring spiritual strength like roots, among which is the habit of treating books as friends. What to say to young readers about this old habit, what to say convincingly about the importance of books, is a responsibility that cannot be shirked.

1. There was an unforgettable period in literary life a few decades ago for many older readers. It was the feeling of eagerly awaiting each literary work that was published, from Russian literature such as: *Quiet Flows the Don*, *War and Peace* , *How the Steel Was Tempered*… to French literature such as: *Notre Dame de Paris*, *Les Misérables*… or works that left a deep mark on Vietnamese literature such as *A Bygone Era*, *Escape from Con Dao*...

There are readers who are willing to scrimp and save on their meager expenses to buy books. For them, books are like confidants, a luxurious and indispensable source of intellectual nourishment. Many works become "bedside books," giving wings to dreams, thoughts, and guiding their lives.

In the 2000s, with series that became global publishing phenomena such as Harry Potter and The Tibetan Code, readers were still eagerly anticipating the next installments.

But nowadays, with the rapid development in many aspects of the economy and society, people rarely have to wait for books to be published. Books, stories, and novels are readily available on shelves, with beautiful paper and eye-catching covers, like delicious dishes served on a banquet table. Unfortunately, not everyone is eager to "pick them up."

Reading books helps children improve their knowledge and life skills. Photo: PD

Notably, faced with the irresistible allure of technology, young readers and children are increasingly distancing themselves from books. The quietude of this peaceful companion seems far too boring compared to the colorful, constantly moving images on television screens, tablets, or the ever-updated, captivating games.

Some families recognize the immense value of books and encourage their children to read through rules such as rewarding them with extra time for games, YouTube, or even a monetary reward. However, this approach to encouraging reading also raises concerns about the "bargaining" of knowledge, as children's motivation to seek out books doesn't stem from a genuine love and appreciation for them.

2. What stood out from the recent author and work introduction program organized by the Provincial Literature and Arts Association at Phan Boi Chau High School (Pleiku City) was the heartfelt and inspiring exchange between 11 authors and a large number of high school students in the city. This was an opportunity to "bring closer" authors, their works, and young readers, helping them expand their knowledge of literature and art in the region where they live.

In particular, the opening remarks by Meritorious Artist Dang Cong Hung, Vice Chairman of the Provincial Association of Literature and Arts, provoked much reflection. He remarked: In today's digital age, where images and sounds can be created using algorithms, literature remains a sacred and irreplaceable realm.

Because only there can genuine emotions, personal experiences, and the depth of human thought truly come alive—they cannot be programmed or copied.

Promoting reading among young people should begin with encouraging proactiveness and an appreciation for knowledge. Photo: PD

"When you read a book, read it with your heart. Because within it are the sweat, the tears, the aspirations for life and love of those who have experienced it. Read to see yourself, to understand others, and to live a more humane life."

Not everyone who reads becomes a writer, but those who know how to read properly will become more profound individuals, freer in their thinking, and more sincere in their love.

We may be good at science and technology, but if we lack the ability to appreciate beauty, compassion, and depth of soul, we are not truly complete human beings. Literature teaches us to feel. To feel before to understand, to feel so that we may know how to live decently and love this life," the Vice Chairman in charge of the Provincial Association of Literature and Arts conveyed these profoundly insightful thoughts.

From that perspective, Meritorious Artist Dang Cong Hung affirmed: The Provincial Association of Literature and Arts is committed to continuing to support authors, schools, and the younger generation so that literature not only exists on bookshelves but also lives vibrantly in every thought, every action, and every dream of young people.

Knowledge from books is no longer confined to the pages of a book. To meet the needs of young readers who prefer convenience, e-books and audiobooks have emerged. Reading culture is developing in many different ways, offering a diverse range of choices for readers to experience, acquire knowledge, broaden their thinking, and enrich their emotions.

The important thing is to say things that will instill a love of books in young people's minds, like water gradually seeping into the soil—naturally, without forced effort, becoming a conscious inheritance of a useful habit. Perhaps more important than any words, parents should relax, sit down, and choose a good book to read with their children every evening. That is the warmest way to accompany them.

Source: https://baogialai.com.vn/noi-gi-voi-ban-doc-tre-post323313.html