Continuing its recognition of inspiring book reviews, VnExpress has honored four readers for their contributions to the "My Favorite Book" section in April. This follows two previous awards presented in February and March. The recognized reviews include: "A Litre of Tears" by Phan Minh Kiet, "Quintessence of Ancient Learning" by Nguyen Thi Mong Tuyen, "Fierce Childhood" by Vu Cam Linh, and an essay reflecting on fairy tales by Nguyen Thanh Nguyen.

Nguyen Thi Mong Tuyen chose to write about "Quintessence of Ancient Learning," highlighting how the book enriches readers' vocabulary, imparts ancient wisdom, and offers timeless principles for modern conduct. She particularly resonated with the saying, "To find one true friend, one can live without regret," and admired the work's lessons on winning hearts.

"Quintessence of Ancient Learning" by On Nhu Nguyen Van Ngoc and Tu An Tran Le Nhan. Photo: Van hoc Publishing House

Reader Nguyen Thanh Nguyen reflected on "Vietnamese Fairy Tales" by Nguyen Dong Chi and "Andersen's Fairy Tales," crediting them with fostering his love for peace, honesty, and chivalry. He underscored the importance of fairy tales in educating children and nurturing their souls. He urged: "Parents, please take a moment, even if it's just to order and eagerly await delivery, to provide colorful storybooks that help your children love reading fairy tales, shaping their character in a time when we are grappling with daily challenges like fuel costs."

After reading "A Litre of Tears," Phan Minh Kiet, a 12th-grade student at Hy Vong (Hope) school, embraced the message: "You are still fortunate, be grateful for life, and love yourself more." When feeling disheartened and adrift, Minh Kiet received the book from his teacher. Initially, he read it to pass the time, but gradually found the work to be a companion, offering solace and helping him overcome emotional emptiness. Through the lessons of resilience and faith conveyed in the book, Minh Kiet realized that happiness is simply appreciating everything one has.

Vu Cam Linh, an 11th-grade student specializing in literature at THPT chuyen Khoa hoc Xa hoi va Nhan van, was deeply moved by the novel "Fierce Childhood." She discovered the book at a used bookstore and was struck by writer Phung Quan's depiction of war through a child's eyes. According to Cam Linh, the work serves as a timeless wake-up call, urging readers to "pity, love, and cherish every small life." The student wrote: "The wounds of our nation from the last century remain, and the choice of whether to allow these traumas to repeat on any generation or nation lies entirely in our hands."

Two volumes of "Fierce Childhood," published by Kim Dong Publishing House. Photo: Fahasa

As part of its 25th-anniversary celebration (26/2/2001-26/2/2026), VnExpress launched an initiative to establish 25 libraries for 25 primary and secondary schools nationwide. With support from publishing houses and readers, the newspaper has donated over 30,000 books.

In addition to building libraries, VnExpress invited readers to submit reviews for "My Favorite Book" from 11/2 to 31/3, aiming to promote a spirit of learning and foster a reading culture. The editorial team received positive responses from readers during this short period. Therefore, after the conclusion of the VnExpress 25-year Bookcase program, the newspaper decided to continue the section, hoping to create a platform for readers to share their feelings about works that hold personal significance.

Readers of all ages can continue to submit articles (without quantity limits) to giaitri.vnexpress@gmail.com, with the email subject: "Bai cam nhan Cuon sach toi yeu".

Each article must be a new creation, up to 1,500 words, and not previously published on any media platform or social media. Submissions with accompanying images (photos of the book or the reader with the book) are encouraged. In addition to written articles, readers can submit their reviews as podcasts or videos. Authors are responsible for the copyright of their content and images. High-quality, inspiring submissions will be selected for publication in the newspaper's Books section.

Phuong Linh