When I was a child, books were just something I saw on the shelves in my grandfather’s study. I never really paid much attention to them. I preferred playing outside with friends or watching TV. But everything changed when I started high school and was assigned to read To Kill a Mockingbird for English class. That book opened up a whole new world for me.

At first, I found it hard to get into the story. The language was different from what I was used to, and some of the themes were confusing. But as I kept reading, I began to understand the deeper meanings behind the words. The character of Atticus Finch taught me about courage, fairness, and standing up for what is right, even when it’s not easy. It made me think about my own life and the choices I was making.

From that moment on, I started reading more. I wasn’t just reading to finish a book anymore; I was reading to learn, to grow, and to see the world through different eyes. Each book I read brought new ideas, new perspectives, and sometimes even new questions about myself. I discovered authors like Maya Angelou, Paulo Coelho, and J.K. Rowling, whose stories inspired me in different ways.

Reading became more than just a school assignment—it became a part of who I am. It helped me develop empathy, improve my communication skills, and even boosted my confidence. I started writing my own stories, which I never thought I would do. I realized that reading didn’t just change my life; it shaped it.

Today, I still carry that same passion for books. I believe that reading has the power to transform people, to connect us, and to help us understand the world better. And I’m grateful for the journey that started with one book and one simple question: “What happens next?”