Best Rare Books

An international hiking trip turns into an act of good will.

From Reader's Digest

Change Text Size

Change Text Size
|
Bookmark

Bookmark

Del.icio.us
Digg
Reddit
Facebook
StumbleUpon
|
Print
|
E-Mail

More on:

John Wood was hiking in Nepal ten years ago when the hard-charging Microsoft executive came upon a school library with only a dozen or so paperbacks for its 450 students. "Perhaps, sir," said the headmaster, "you will someday come back with books."

Indeed, the following year, Wood did -- hauling in some 3,000 donated volumes of all genres. Soon after, he left Microsoft to launch Room to Read, which has built more than 5,000 libraries and 440 schools in developing countries since 2000. Room to Read also gives scholarships to girls and publishes children's books. So far, 1.7 million kids have benefited.

Back to the Best of America Homepage

From Reader's Digest - May 2008

Should Everyone Read This?

Yes! I vote for this story

Your Comments

See all

...

Post your comment Cancel

How Your Dentist Can Save Your Life
The dentist may be the most important doctor you see this year.
12 Tips to Create a Sleep Haven
Don't just fall into bed. Use these guidelines to make your bedroom a place of utter respite.
Granite Tile Kitchen Countertops
Granite tile gives you the appearance of a solid-stone slab at one-third the cost. We'll show you the techniques for a first-rate job.
Mind Over Money
In tough times, psyching yourself up to save is even more important. Here's how.
Classic Pergola
Get more shade with this low-maintenance retreat.

Fresh content for this Thursday, May 15, 2008

1. Smart Eating

Chocolate's Secret Benefits

rd.com

2. Critical Cause

How to Help
China's Earthquake
Victims

redcross.org

3. Enlightening Podcast

The Mortgage
Crisis Explained --
Really!

thisamericanlife.org

4. Culinary Slideshow

Playing With Food

nytimes.com

5. Cute Video

Otters Holding Hands

youtube.com

More "Daily 5s": Yesterday | This Week

Best of America Home >

Browse by Year
2008 2007200620052004

Best Inspiration
A group of HIV-infected children halfway around the world inspire a woman to make a difference.
Best Patriotic Pitch
One woman tries to restore the nation's respect for our country's National Anthem and what it stands for.
Best Change Agent
Putting your change in these parking meters may help change someone's life.
Best Petal Pusher
Flower-power is key in the makeover of a neglected Kansas City street.
Best Caregiver
When serious illness strikes the children of single parents, this foundation eases some of the pain.
Best Deal on Wheels
These low income job seekers find out that transportation can make or break their chances at employment.
Best Curves
Arizona is home to this miraculous jewel of nature.
Best Guided Tour
A father and son take a special trip to visit rare wildlife.
Best American Adventure
After the sudden death of her fiancé, a woman heals through an epic journey.