Books and Personal Development: A Path to Knowledge, Thought, and Moral Values

On October 22, 2026, the Kazakh-American Free University hosted a roundtable discussion titled “Books and Personal Development” as part of the “Reading Nation” project. The event, which involved students from the “Primary Education” (IP) academic program, was organized by S. M. Rudenko, a lecturer in the Department of Pedagogy and Psychology.

During the roundtable, students explored the significance of reading in the life of a modern individual, examining how books influence the development of thought, language, imagination, emotional intelligence, and moral character. Participants shared their favorite literary works, offered reading recommendations, and discussed strategies for fostering an interest in books among primary school-aged children.

The discussion was particularly enlivened by segments such as the debate “Books vs. Screens,” a pedagogical case study titled “A Child Who Dislikes Reading,” and a role-playing exercise—a “trial” based on A. S. Pushkin’s *The Tale of the Fisherman and the Fish*. Taking on roles such as prosecutor, defense attorney, literary characters, judge, and juror, the students practiced articulating their own viewpoints, presenting arguments, asking questions, and engaging respectfully with the opinions of others.

The roundtable helped promote reading and fostered a culture of literary dialogue, critical thinking, and the development of professional competencies among the future teachers. The event demonstrated that books not only broaden one’s horizons but also help individuals gain a deeper understanding of themselves, those around them, and the moral implications of their own actions.