As I am now a senior high school student, I

have a great many friends, but there is one whom

I prize over all the rest. I first made his

acquaintance when I began to go to school. He has

been my constant companion ever since.

      Though he is serious in appearance, he never

fails to be interesting. Often he is clever, sometimes

even merry and gay. He is the most knowledgeable

friend a person could have. He knows virtually

every language of the world, and all the events of

history, and the words of all the great poets and

philosophers. A kindly benefactor, he is admired

and enjoyed by everyone who makes his

acquantance.

        To me, he has been a great teacher as well

as a friend. He first taught me the secrets of my

own language and then those of others. With

these keys he showed us how to unlock all the

arts and sciences of man.

         My friend is endlessly patient. Dull though

I may be, I can return to him again and again, and

he is always ready to teach me. When I am bored,

he entertains me.

When I am dispirited, he lifts me up. When I am

lonely, he keeps me company. He is a friend not

only to me but to millions around the world. Shall

I tell his name? His name is "Reading."