While visiting the Stellar Centre in Cambodia, DARA Europe volunteer Judith sat down with two students during their weekly library class to discuss their love for reading. As these students attend Stellar’s English classes, it became a great opportunity for them to practice speaking English themselves, which they handled very well. Their answers were honest, enthusiastic, and above all, inspiring. Their teacher, Kuntheak, also shared her experiences. Together, their stories show how books bring more than just knowledge—they bring joy, confidence, and personal growth.
Thavin (12) – reading to learn and to laugh
Thavin is twelve years old and has been part of Stellar since he was five. After starting in the kindergarten class, he started at the local primary school in Kork Rokar. To strengthen his education, he attends supplementary classes and homework support at Stellar. Currently in class E1B for English, his passion for stories is immediately clear the moment he starts to speak.
Why do you enjoy reading? “I love reading; it gives me new knowledge,” Thavin explains. For him, reading is a way to discover new things, but it’s also simply fun. “I love funny stories,” he adds with a laugh. “They make me smile.”
Do you have a favorite book? “My favorite book is about a monkey and a turtle.” As he talks about it, a big smile appears on his face. It shows how a simple story can take a child away into a world of humor and adventure.
“I love reading; it gives me new knowledge,”
Meng Heng (11) – reading makes me happy
Meng Heng, who is eleven years old, is in the same class as Thavin. She enthusiastically shares her reading experiences with Judith.
Why do you like to read? For Meng Heng, reading is a source of peace. ‘It makes me feel happy and relaxed,’ she explains. She doesn’t just read at school, either; she often picks up a book to enjoy quietly at home. “I like to read by myself at home too.”
What kind of books do you enjoy?
“I love storytelling books.” For her, reading is also an educational journey:
‘’Reading educates me, I love reading the Bible.” During the library lesson, she quietly continues where she left off. “Every week when I’m in the library, I pick up the book where I left off.”
A word from their teacher, Kuntheak
“I’ve noticed that their vocabulary has improved since we started the weekly library lessons,” Kuntheak says. By reading regularly, students encounter new words and learn to understand their context. During the lessons, Kuntheak walks around to guide the children. When a student doesn’t understand a word, she provides immediate feedback.
Many students read aloud, which creates an extra learning opportunity. “If their pronunciation isn’t right, I can correct them immediately.” In this way, the students don’t just learn new words; they learn how to use them correctly. Step by step, their language skills, confidence, and joy in reading continue to grow.
Growing together through reading
The conversation with these students and their teacher reveals something beautiful, warm, and hopeful. Reading brings together joy, peace, and knowledge, creating space for growth and imagination.
The weekly library lessons at Stellar give children the time and environment to discover stories, master new words, and build self-esteem. They experience firsthand how reading can inspire and connect them.
Ultimately, the library is more than just a room filled with books; it is a place where curiosity, language, and personal development meet. A place where children grow, learn, and dream together.