The Bridge to Bookland: How I Was Introduced to Reading as a Child
Childhood reading habits are often the start of a lifelong journey into the vast world of literature. For me, my journey began in 2013 at a Convent School where English was the strict rule, and library periods were a weekly ritual. These periods not only improved verbal abilities but also ignited a passion for reading that has lasted over the years.
The Compulsory Library Periods
Our school introduced a mandatory 30-minute library period once every week for students from the 5th to 10th grade. Each week, the librarian would place at least 50 books on her table, and we would choose one to take home for a week. If a book wasn't finished, we could either extend the period by one week or replace it with another. This system was designed to encourage reading and improve conversational skills.
However, many students did not adhere to the spirit of the rule. They simply took the books home, read them as quickly as possible, and returned them the following week for a new book. This was the norm, and I was no different until 7th grade when I stumbled upon a book that would change everything.
The Gateway Book
The book that sparked my love for reading was 'Around the World in 80 Days' by Jules Verne. I chose this book not because of the content, but purely because of its cool cover. It was a 13-year-old's fascination, and in just two days, I devoured the entire novel from start to finish without skipping a chapter. This was the first time I read a book to the end, and from that moment on, I was hooked.
After that, I continued to choose Jules Verne's works, such as 'Journey to the Center of the Earth.' The library period became a routine of discovery and adventure. Reading became an escape, a way to explore new worlds and characters.
From Classics to Modern Fiction
My love for reading led me to classics like Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, The Hunger Games, and Maze Runner. These books became my comfort reads, and even years later, Percy Jackson remains a comforting place. Other genres like Non-Fiction and autobiography weren't far behind, opening up new perspectives and knowledge.
The library period was more than just a weekly chore; it was a gateway to a world of literature. It was the librarian who first introduced me to the joy of reading. Without her, countless worlds and stories would have remained undiscovered.
The Importance of the Right Book
Now, I read almost every genre under the umbrella of fiction, and occasionally non-fiction too. Reading has never been boring and never will be. All it takes is the right book to ignite a love for reading. Personally, it was the right book that set me on the path to a lifetime of exploration and discovery.
I cannot thank my librarian enough for introducing me to the joy of reading. If she hadn't, I would have missed out on this incredible journey of self-discovery and imagination. In a world full of distractions, books continue to offer a unique and fulfilling experience. The power of a good book to change a life is immense, and I am grateful for the one that set me on my path.