Cyra Aggarwal became a book blogger at age 13, launching her own website dedicated to sharing the joy of reading with the world.

The idea for the blog started closer to home, when Cyra’s friends would ask her for book recommendations. Cyra figured there were lots of kids who liked to read but struggled with selecting books, so she decided to start her website with that audience in mind.

Cyra’s mother, Mani Mukhija, said from the age of 4, Cyra could always be found with a book in hand. Mani has watched her daughter’s love for reading grow over the years, along with her aspirations to become a writer.

“What sets Cyra apart is her unwavering passion for reading and literature and her dedication to sharing the joy of reading with the world,” said Mani, who nominated Cyra as a Reading Hero. “Despite the challenges of being a high school freshman, Cyra’s commitment to her blog exemplifies her love for storytelling.”

Cyra said that love of stories and storytelling was instilled in her by her mom.

“Getting this nomination from my mom makes it extra special because she is the one who inculcated the love of reading in me at such a young age,” she said. “And I am truly thankful for that.”

Cyra’s blog has grown to include book reviews and author interviews, and she hopes it continues to reach and inspire others.

“Reading has the power to broaden horizons, ignite imaginations, and foster empathy by allowing us to walk in someone else’s shoes. It opens doors to new worlds, ideas, and perspectives, empowering individuals to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and creativity,” she said. “I am committed to instilling a love for reading because I believe that every child deserves the opportunity to explore, learn, and grow through the magic of books.”