Editor's Note:

"Read ten thousand books,mk and your pen will be guided as if by the gods" is an ancient Chinese idiom that can be seen in students' textbooks. China's Ministry of Education has published an action plan to further promote reading among students across the nation. With new and diverse book recommendations, the reading scene is expected to be revived not only at schools, but also across society. To contribute to this endeavor, the Global Times launched "My Reading Life" essay contest for middle school students.

Please pick up a pen and share your stories with us at [email protected]

Participants will be rewarded once the article has been selected.

Photo: IC

Ring! Ring! Ring! I quickly got out of bed, slammed my alarm clock off, and hastily pulled on some clothes. I ran downstairs and took three deep breaths. "I can do it," I thought as my mind slowed down, "I can definitely finish my first novel."   

I started to shiver again, cold sweat soaking my back. "Why do I need to read?" My thoughts grew more intense with each passing second. "I never chose to read English. It's so unfair. Why?" Then, some footsteps interrupted my thoughts. It was mom. "Are you okay, darling? You look very red. Do you feel alright?" she spoke in her soft but strict voice. 

My nervousness and anger mixed together like plants trying to grow faster than others. As time passed by, they became stronger and more intense. "NO! I never wanted to learn English!" I shouted, and every hair on my body stood up due to the power of my words. 

Looking at my mom's surprised and sad face, I instantly regretted my outburst. I knew that I had crossed the line. I ran back to my room and locked myself in it. 

After a long time, I opened my door. I was surprised to discover mom standing in front of me. She said that she should never have pushed me so hard. 

I froze and was shocked. This was the first time that my mom had said sorry to me. I felt my mom's love and her hopes for me to become a good student. So I decided to run downstairs again and pick up my first novel, Charlotte's Web. 

First published in 1952, Charlotte's Webis a classic children's novel written by E.B. White. The story is a heartwarming tale of friendship, and loyalty, centered around a young pig named Wilbur and his unlikely friendship with a spider named Charlotte.

Although reading it in English was a bit of challenge for me, I was still touched by the book. First of all, the bond between Wilbur and Charlotte demonstrates the importance of helping others. It reminds me of those moments that my mom was supporting me during my learning journey. 

Secondly, the book gently introduces young readers like me to the concept of life's transient nature through Charlotte's life cycle. Also, Wilbur's journey emphasizes finding self-worth, which is a much-needed quality to boost one's confidence.

The book has been celebrated for its eloquent writing, emotional richness, and timeless themes. Widely regarded as one of the finest children's books ever written, it has inspired adaptations into animated films, a live-action movie, and a stage play. 

The story remains meaningful to readers of all generations, imparting lessons on compassion, resilience, and the lasting impact of language.

After reading the book, I gained more confidence in reading and started to reflect on the story's beginning, which my mom helped me read. Even though she can sometimes be a little strict, I believe that every person has different personalities and that they can have a chance to change themselves with love and encouragement. 

This is a little reading story of mine. It illustrates the changes that occurred between my mom and me. 

She showed her support, allowing me to believe in myself and embraced new challenges. 

The author is a student at Keystone Academy