Creative Illustration depicts childern reading books Photo: IC

The concept of love has always been a deep but universal theme that many of us had known through films or experienced through a bowl of warm noodles offered by our parents. The concept has puzzled many people, I guess otherwise there were not "Agony Aunt" column trends on newspapers. I think I'm one of those many who had known very vaguely about love until I read the book Cuore, also known as Heart or The Heart of a Boy. 

Secrets in diary 

The book was written by Italian author Edmondo de Amicis. Even though it was written over a hundred years ago, the stories in this book are so relatable and touching to me since I can see my own everyday experiences in the book. 

The book is written in the form of a diary by a young boy named Enrico, who shares his daily experiences at school, at home, and in his community. Each story is filled with love and warmth, and it made me realize that love isn't just about family - it's also about friendship, kindness, and even caring for strangers.

One of the things that moved me most was how the book showed love in simple, everyday actions. For example, Enrico's teacher always treated his students with patience and understanding. Even when they made mistakes, he didn't scold them harshly but instead used love to guide them. 

This reminded me of my own teachers, who work so hard to teach us every day. They put up with our mischief and always encourage us to do better. Another character I admired was Garrone, one of Enrico's classmates. Garrone was kind and brave, and he always stood up for weaker students. There was a story where he protected a boy who was being bullied even though it wasn't his fight. That made me think about whether I've been as kind and supportive to my own friends. 

The book also taught me a lot about family love, too. After reading it, I realized that Enrico's parents showed their love in many ways. For example, his father helped him with his studies, and his mother took care of him when he was sick. Reading this made me appreciate my own parents' care more. They're always busy with their work, but they still spare time to help me with my homework to make sure I'm doing well. Sometimes I take their love for granted, but this book reminded me how lucky I am to have them.

Another very important lesson from this book is about loving society and helping others I think. I still remember that Enrico's teacher often encouraged the students to care for the poor and those in need. In one story, Enrico and his classmates visited an old man who was sick. They didn't know him, but they used their pocket money to buy him some small gifts and spent time talking to him and to understand his needs. This made me realize that love isn't just for people we know - it's also for strangers who need our help. We live in a big community with a lot of people, and if everyone shows a little kindness to others, the world can become a better place that fills with love and kindness.

Love is simple 

What I loved most about this book is how it shows that love doesn't have to be grand or dramatic. In China, we have a saying that describes love as water that streams quietly but nurtures hope and living beings. 

Reading this book reminds me of the saying. I gradually realized that love can be as simple as a smile, a kind word, or a small act of help. As a student, I might not be able to do big things, but I can start with small actions such as being a good friend, respecting my teachers, helping my parents, or giving my seat on the bus to an elderly person. These little things might seem small, but they're all ways to show love.

Once upon a time, I didn't see the power and value of love, I thought what is most powerful to today's society is materialistic success. However, I now have changed mindset and believes that the most powerful force in the world is love. It can make our lives better and give us strength when things are tough. I hope I can be like the characters in the book who spreads love and kindness wherever I go. Even though I'm just a middle school student, I know that my actions can make a difference.

Another thing that inspired me in reading the book is I have gradually become interested in sociological quest that relates to love and ethics. The book made me believe the origin of love comes from the individual and is based on one's judgement about what is considered to be good. Therefore, love describes not only a matter of affection, but also a power and an ethical mind shared by many. 

All in all, Cuore is a book that made me think about my own life and how I can be a better person. If you're looking for a book that will warm your heart and inspire you to be kinder, I highly recommend Cuore. 

It's a timeless story that reminds us all to live with love and compassion.

The author is a student at Beijing Huiwen Experimental Middle School