Living Classics: the contest of young readers

By Vestnik Kavkaza

The Moscow theatre Et Cetera held the final of the Contest of Young Readers “Living Classics” which began six months ago. 11-12-year old pupils from Russia, Ukraine, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Moldova, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Turkey took part in the contest. The number of participants was 3 million people this year.

Children had to read aloud, in Russian, part of their favourite book. The judges included famous cultural and art activists, while the Council of Observers included one representative from each country-participant. As the result of the contest, six winners were chosen and they were awarded with prizes.

The international contest “Living Classics” took place for the first time. Its main aim is the promotion of reading in Russian among children of various countries.

The participant from Azerbaijan, Leila Jafari, told Vestnik Kavkaza about her impressions of the contest. “We made friends with other countries and learnt a lot from other children. It wasn’t nervous. The fact that we have come here means our victory. I am proud to represent my country; I am proud that our large country has chosen us to represent it.” Answering the question on the benefits of the contest, Leila said: “We represent our country, we glorify it by speaking in Russian, being from Azerbaijan.”