Inspiring Minds Through Reading and Expression - Sunbeam School Ballia

Today, in the Good School Alliance session, I attended a very interesting and meaningful class conducted by Jugjiv Sir. In the class, Sir read a wonderful story and asked about our experience and thoughts on today's class. Another important thing we learned was the correct use of punctuation marks and how to spell words and sentences correctly. He also explained about public speaking and speaking with confidence. Overall, the class was very educational and enjoyable. I learned many new things about speaking, reading, and writing. I feel that these lessons will help me become a better communicator and a more confident speaker in the future.

Riddhi Gupta

My Reflection on Today's Session

Today's session was inspiring and enjoyable. It helped me to understand the importance of regular reading and how it improves our creativity and thinking. I liked how the speaker encouraged us to explore new books and share our ideas with others. It was a really meaningful session for me.

Aadhya Gupta, Class 5B

In today's Good School Session, firstly, Jugjiv Sir read an amazing story. We learned how to pronounce some difficult words. He also explained about public speaking and speaking with confidence. Overall, this session was really awesome and helpful for speaking, reading, and writing.

Arohi Jaiswal, Class 5B

Reflection on Today's Session 

In today's session, we had a very great personality, Mr Jugjiv Sir. He read a story, “The Door-to-Door Bookstore.” Sir also explained the story and asked us questions. Sir taught us the meaning of hard words, and I was focusing on each word. Really, Sir explained the story very nicely. After Jugjiv Sir's class, we automatically moved to Brinda Ma’am’s class. She read the story “The Inner Life of Animals” and also explained the meanings of difficult words and how to pronounce them. At the end, I would like to say that the session was really informative.

Thank you.

Janhvi Singh, Class 5C

Today's Morning Session

Today's morning session started with Jugjiv Sir. He read a story called “The Door-to-Door Bookstore.” It was such an amazing story, and he also told us some interesting and knowledgeable new things. This session was really awesome. 

In the second session, we had a great personality, Ms Brinda Ghosh Ma’am, with us. She also read a story named “The Inner Life of Animals,” in which she read the chapter “Hello Sandman.” It was an amazing story. Then she also told us new things that we did not even know.

This session was also really nice. Both sessions were really wonderful. 

Talat Bano, Class 5C

My Reflection on Today's Session

In today's session, we had a very great personality, Mr Jugjiv Sir.

He read a story, “The Door-to-Door Bookstore.” Sir also explained the story and asked us questions. Sir taught us the meaning of hard words, and I was focusing on each word. Really, Sir explained the story very nicely. After Jugjiv Sir's class, we automatically moved to Brinda Ma’am’s class. She read the story “The Inner Life of Animals” and also explained the meanings of difficult words and how to pronounce them. At the end, I would like to say that the session was really informative.

Thank you.

Janhvi Singh, Class 5C

Reflection Speech

Today's session was truly inspiring and enjoyable, leaving a lasting impact on my perspective. I'd like to express my gratitude to Jugjiv Sir for his engaging presentation.

The story he shared was captivating, and the way he articulated difficult words helped me improve my pronunciation. The session on public speaking and confidence was particularly insightful, emphasising the importance of effective communication.

What resonated with me most was the encouragement to explore new books and share ideas with others. This session was a valuable reminder of the power of reading in enhancing our creativity, thinking, and communication skills.

Overall, it was an enriching experience that I thoroughly enjoyed. I'm grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow, and I look forward to applying these valuable lessons in my daily life.

Iqra Meraj, Class IX-F

A Day of Literary and Intellectual Growth

I wanted to express my sincere appreciation for today's profoundly educational and enjoyable Good School Alliance session. The seamless combination of literary exposure and practical communication advice made this a truly memorable day of learning.

The first segment, led by Jugjiv Sir, was characterised by warmth and clarity. The reading of “The Door-to-Door Bookstore” beautifully highlighted themes of community, friendship, and the personal connections we form with literature. Sir’s subsequent lesson on correct punctuation and clear articulation was incredibly useful, as it directly addressed crucial elements of effective writing and speaking. His emphasis on developing public speaking confidence gave me actionable steps toward becoming a better orator.

The second session, featuring the insightful Ms Brinda Ghosh, shifted our focus to the natural world. Her reading from the chapter “Hello Sandman” in “The Inner Life of Animals” was fascinating. It opened my eyes to the depth of emotional and intellectual life in animals, introducing new concepts that sparked my curiosity and desire to learn more about environmental studies and biology.

Both presenters delivered their content with infectious enthusiasm. I left the session feeling motivated to not only read more widely but also to practice the communication techniques I acquired. These lessons are highly valuable and will undoubtedly contribute to my growth both academically and personally.

Ashish Verma, Class 12 PCB

Learning Through Communication and Conscious Listening - Sunbeam School Ballia

In today's session, we had the great personality Mr. Kartik Sir. He told us about the types of communication and gave us more knowledge about communication. He also guided us on how we can communicate with different types of living beings on Earth, like animals, humans, etc.

He also played a song which was about emotions.

He told us about the benefits of conscious listening.

I am really happy to get this beautiful ❤️ opportunity to join this webinar, understand new things, and improve my vocabulary.

In the second session, there was a ma’am, Mrs Manisha Khanna. She read a story called "Taiyar Ho Jao". It was a very interesting story related to scouts — an amazing session indeed.

Both sessions were really awesome, and we learned many new things.

I really thank Sandeep Dutt Sir and Jugjiv Sir for encouraging us to come and enjoy this platform. 🌸

Thank you,

Talat Bano, 5C

Through this session on Communication Skills and Conscious Listening,

I understood that communication is not just about speaking, but also about listening with full attention and awareness. I learned about different types of communication—verbal, non-verbal, visual, and written—and how each plays a unique role in expressing ideas and emotions.

The session also highlighted the importance of being a conscious listener, which means understanding before responding and being aware of what the other person truly wants to convey.

Developing conscious listening skills helps in avoiding small misunderstandings that can turn into big mistakes later. I realised that when we listen carefully, we can interpret messages better, form relevant opinions, and respond thoughtfully.

This class taught me that effective communication is a fundamental skill that empowers us in personal, academic, and professional life. Overall, it made me more aware of the value of mindful communication and how it can positively impact our interactions with others.

Arushi Srivastava, IX A

Today’s Good School Alliance session was really insightful. Mr Kartik talked about speaking skills and helped us understand that everyone thinks differently, which affects how we communicate. His tips on coping with the fear of public speaking—like focusing on the message rather than worrying about judgment—felt practical and easy to try.

After that, Ms Manisha shared a story titled "अब तैयार हो जाओ". Her storytelling was lively; it highlighted the importance of being ready and taking action.

Overall, the session prompted me to reflect on how I approach communication and fear, and I feel motivated to speak more confidently while being aware of different perspectives.

Janvi Singh, IX F

Communication is More Than Words

Communication is more than words — it’s understanding, observing, and connecting. This was the spark that Kartik Sir ignited in our communication session. What struck me the most was the power of being a good listener. Listening actively, noticing subtle details, and valuing every perspective are the foundations of meaningful communication, and Kartik Sir made this idea come alive with real-life examples.

I sincerely appreciate the example explanation of my question by Sandeep Sir, showing how our Good School Alliance itself is an example of how one can build a career in social media on the platform of mass communication.

Astha Mishra, IX D

In today's class, we had the great personality Mr. Kartik Sir. He informed us about the various types of communication and provided us with additional knowledge on how to communicate effectively with animals, humans, and others. He also played songs that were about emotions and explained the benefits of conscious listening.

I am really grateful to have this opportunity to join this great webinar, as I got to learn new things and improve my vocabulary.

The second session was by Mrs Manisha Khanna. Ma’am, read the story "Taiyar Ho Jao", an interesting story related to scouts.

I really thank Sandeep Sir and Jugjiv Sir for creating such an interactive platform.

Thank you,

Riffat Bano, 6D

Jai Hind!

Dear readers, I am Aayush Kumar Singh of Class X-A, and this is my reflection.

The session began with a short conversation between me and Manisha Ma’am about Diwali and the excitement of buying things for the festival. We talked about how everyone gets busy preparing for the celebration and how the festival brings a happy spirit everywhere.

After that, Kartik Sir showed us two versions of the same video, each with different background music. It was surprising to see how just changing the music could completely change the feeling and message of the video. Through this, we understood that communication is not only through words, but also through emotions, tone, and expression.

Sir then explained how humans and animals communicate in their own ways — humans through language, and animals through gestures and sounds. This helped me realise that real communication comes from understanding feelings, not just speaking.

Overall, the session taught me about empathy, connection, and meaningful communication — lessons that help us express ourselves better in every form of life.

Aayush Kumar Singh, Class X-A

In today’s session, we had the privilege of learning from the inspiring personality, Mr Kartik Sir, who taught us about various methods of communication and their objectives. He also explained the importance of conscious listening and how we can become better listeners.

One of the most interesting parts of the class was when he showed us a video that demonstrated how changing the background music can completely alter the interpretation of a scene.

After Kartik Sir’s class, we had Manisha Ma’am’s session, where we read the story ‘तैयार हो जाओ’. I really enjoyed this class and found it both engaging and meaningful.

I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to Sandeep Dutt Sir and Jugjiv Sir for giving me this wonderful opportunity to learn and explore new ideas on this platform.

Thank you,

Adrika Sahu, Class 8 A

Learning Through Stories - Lotus Petal Foundation

 

Reflection My Good School.docx.pdf 

Students from Lotus Petal Foundation participated in an inspiring My Good School session. This session featured two lively book-reading activities that sparked curiosity, creativity, and meaningful reflections. Students discussed the lessons they learned and how reading together fostered open conversation, empathy, and joy in learning.

Opening New Doors Through Reading - Sunbeam School Ballia

The Good School session was truly inspiring. Mr Jugjiv Sir read and explained the story, The Door-to-Door Bookstore. He also told us the meanings of the hard words. We also learned how to pronounce the difficult words. The way Sir teaches was very nice. At the end, I would say that this session was very interesting.

– Bhumi Gupta, 5B

In this Good School session, I learned how to pronounce words correctly and how to spell new words that were difficult for me before. I also learned how to use commas and question marks properly in sentences. During the session, Jugjiv Sir read a story to us, and we listened carefully. He asked us questions about the story and encouraged us to share our experiences and thoughts. This activity helped me understand the story better and improved my speaking skills. In the end, I would like to say that this session was very useful for me.

– Riddhi Gupta, 5B

The session on The Door-to-Door Bookstore was honestly super interesting and fun! We didn’t just read the story; we really got into it, exploring the characters, their struggles, and how small actions can make a big difference. I especially loved how we discussed random but cool things, like the heels-for-men fact and the legend of Santa Claus—stuff you wouldn’t normally think about, but it made the session so lively. It was more than just a story; it was about human connections, persistence, and noticing the little things in life that actually matter. I also enjoyed how everyone could share their thoughts—it wasn’t just one-way; it felt interactive and made me think differently about storytelling and how messages are delivered. Overall, it was a session that was both fun and meaningful. I left feeling inspired and more aware of the small details and lessons stories can teach us. Definitely one of those sessions that stick with you!

– Janvi Singh, IX F, Sunbeam School Ballia

In today’s Good School session, firstly, Jugjiv Sir read a story to us, and we understood it carefully. We learned how to pronounce some difficult words and their meanings. The story’s name was The Door-to-Door Bookstore. After that, there was a short quiz on Ruskin Bond taken by Manisha Khanna Ma’am. This was conducted because the next story was by Ruskin Bond, and that book was also amazing. Ma’am also asked some questions that related to us. At the end of my reflection, I want to say that this session was amazing and interesting.

– Arohi Jaiswal, 5B

So, I am Shaksham Gupta of class 6E, going to tell you about the session named My Good School. It happens every Sunday to improve our skills in reading. This platform enables children to improve their reading as well as their thinking power. Today’s story name was The Door-to-Door Bookstore. Jugjiv Singh Sir explained the story and asked questions about the chapter. I would also recommend you join the classes every Sunday. It will definitely help you to improve your reading skills. Thank you, Jai Hind!

– Shaksham Gupta, 6E

The Good School session was truly inspiring. Mr Jugjiv Sir read and explained the story, The Door-to-Door Bookstore. He also told us the meaning of the hard words. We also learned how to pronounce the difficult words. The way Sir teaches was very nice. At the end, I would say that this session was very interesting.

– Mayank Pandey, 6E, Sunbeam School Ballia

My reflection on today’s Good School Alliance session: Today’s meeting about the Good School Alliance session by Jugjiv Sir and Manisha Ma’am was very inspiring and interesting. They also read a story. We listened to it very carefully. Then they asked some questions about it, and that encouraged us to share our thoughts and ideas. This helped me understand the story better. We learned how to pronounce words properly, and when they were reading the story, I was very focused on each and every word. That helped me pronounce properly and read fluently. I also learned how regular reading improves our reading skills and vocabulary. The session motivated me to make reading a daily habit. In the end, I would like to say that it was a very informative and enjoyable meeting, and I am excited to be a part of this learning journey.

– Aadhya Gupta, 5B

Learning Beyond Words: A Day of Inspiration and Growth - Sunbeam School Ballia

Jai Hind, dear readers 

Today’s Good School Alliance session, conducted by Jugjiv Sir and Manisha Ma’am, was truly enlightening and inspiring. Jugjiv Sir read and explained the story “The Door-to-Door Bookstore” in a very expressive and engaging manner. The story beautifully conveyed the power of reading and how books can shape our imagination and personality.

The story revolves around Carl Konrad Koreander, a passionate bookstore owner, whose shop is filled with rare and magical books. One day, a young boy named Bastian visits his store and discovers that books are not just pages with words, but gateways to imagination, wisdom, and self-discovery. Through their interaction, the story highlights how reading can open our minds, deepen our understanding, and make us see the world differently.

Throughout the session, Sir guided us in learning the correct pronunciation and meanings of several difficult words. This helped improve our reading fluency and vocabulary. The interactive discussion and thoughtful questions encouraged us to think critically and share our interpretations, which made the session both educational and enjoyable.

From this experience, I understood that regular reading not only enhances our language skills but also strengthens our concentration, creativity, and empathy. Books truly are our best companions, helping us learn, grow, and dream beyond boundaries.

In conclusion, today’s session was deeply motivating, informative, and memorable. It has inspired me to make reading a daily habit and to explore more meaningful stories that enrich both mind and heart.

Aayush Kumar Singh

Class 10

Reflection on today's session✨

Today's session was very inspiring and knowledgeable for everyone. In the first session, Jugiv Singh sir had read a book named "The Book To Book Store" in which we have learnt a lot of new words, and also this improved my vocabulary and some English.

In the second session we were having Manisha Khanna ma'am who told us about the "Ruskin Bond" story and the story name was  "char pankhudiyan" and also at the beginning of the story we played a short quiz about Ruskin Bond in the quiz she asked us some unique things about Ruskin Bond life and asked the questions related to that and the story was about four friends. At last, Sandeep sir told us very nice and good things, and also motivated us to move forward in our lives. I am really thankful to have this opportunity to have such a great platform for learning new things, to have motivation from all the members of My Good School 🌺.

I thank Sandeep sir, Jugiv  sir and Manisha ma'am for taking today's great session 

Both sessions were truly amazing

Thank you 😊 

Talat Bano 5C

Sunbeam Ballia

Today’s Good School Session✨

Today's session was truly inspiring and informative. In the first session with Jugjiv Sir, we learned how to pronounce words correctly and use punctuation marks effectively through reading reflections and the book “The Door to Door Bookstore.” This activity significantly improved my vocabulary and communication skills.

The second session with Manisha Ma’am was equally enriching. She read us the story “चार पंखुड़ियां” (Four Petals) written by Ruskin Bond. The story revolved around four friends who were mistaken for kidnappers while trying to care for a small child. We also enjoyed an engaging quiz that deepened our understanding of Ruskin Bond’s works. The session was truly interactive and fun.

One key takeaway that resonated with me was the importance of avoiding impulsive decisions, especially when we are emotional. This valuable lesson has left a lasting impact, and I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to learn.🌸

Thank you, Manisha Ma’am and Jugjiv Sir, for such a thought-provoking session.💫

— Ifra Wahid

Class IX F

Today’s Good School Alliance Session✨

Today's Good School Alliance session was truly phenomenal and left an indelible mark on my learning journey. I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Jugjiv Sir for his engaging and thought-provoking presentation.

The story he shared was captivating, and the interactive discussion that followed was incredibly enriching. It not only enhanced my comprehension skills but also encouraged me to think critically and express my thoughts confidently.

What struck me most was the emphasis on the importance of regular reading in improving our reading skills and vocabulary. The session was a perfect blend of learning and fun, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of it.

I’m excited to include reading in my daily routine and look forward to more such sessions that foster growth and development. Thank you to our facilitators for an unforgettable experience! 🌟

— Iqra Meraj

Class IX F

Today’s Good School Alliance Session

Today’s Good School Alliance session, conducted by Jugjiv Sir and Manisha Ma’am, was truly inspiring and engaging. They read a beautiful story, and we listened attentively. Afterwards, they asked us some thought-provoking questions that encouraged everyone to share their ideas and perspectives.

This activity helped me understand the story more deeply. While listening, I paid close attention to their pronunciation, which helped me improve my own reading and speaking fluency. I also realized how regular reading can strengthen our vocabulary and overall language skills.

Thank you, Ma’am and Sir, for such a wonderful and enriching session! 🌸

— Aarav

Class V A

Celebrating Four Years of Growth, Passion, and Possibility - Manisha Khanna

As My Good School celebrates its 4th birthday, we extend our heartfelt wishes to everyone who has been part of this remarkable journey. Today is not just a celebration of years, but of the people who have made these years meaningful.

We sincerely thank the directors, principals, teachers, students, and partners who have stood by us. Your trust, dedication, and collaboration have been the pillars that made this milestone possible. With heartfelt gratitude to all our partners for carrying forward our shared vision, we honour the collective effort that drives My Good School forward.

Together, let us unite to excel and continue bringing our vision to life through the 4S — Service, Skills, Sports, and Study. Your encouragement inspires us to nurture talent, foster growth, and build a community where learning, values, and achievements shine brightly.

We could not have reached this milestone without the guidance and support of our mentors and leaders. Our founder, Devgan Sir, has been the pillar of our journey, providing direction, wisdom, and unwavering belief in our potential. Jugjiv Sir has consistently guided us with insight and encouragement, showing us the right path and inspiring focus on our vision. Brinda Ma’am has been a constant source of support, motivation, and guidance, helping us grow at every step. The steadfast support of Mr Sandeep Dutt, our visionary leader, fuels every initiative we undertake and inspires us to strive for excellence in all we do.

Without all of you, this journey would not have been possible. Together, we celebrate today and look forward to many more milestones ahead.

Happy 4th Birthday to My Good School!

With knowledge to spark and dreams to drive,
Manisha Khanna

Honesty: A Timeless Value from the Good School Session- Sunbeam School, Ballia

Today's Reflection on Good School Session

Today's session was truly inspiring and encouraging. In our reading session with Manisha Ma’am and Jugjiv Sir, we explored the book “ईमानदारी” (Honesty) through the exemplary lives of Lal Bahadur Shastri, Abraham Lincoln, and others. We learned about the significance of honesty in a student’s life and how parents and teachers can instill this value in young minds.

One key takeaway that resonated with me was: “We should always be honest and follow the right path, regardless of what others think about us.” This lesson has left a lasting impact on me, and I am grateful for the opportunity to reflect on it.

Thank you to Manisha Ma’am and Jugjiv Sir for such a thought-provoking session.

Ifra Wahid, IX-F
Sunbeam School, Ballia

Jai Hind, dear readers

I am Aayush Kumar Singh, writing this reflection on the session taken by Manisha Khanna Ma’am.

In today’s session, Manisha Ma’am shared how people still carry deep faith and honesty. She told us how, during namaz, shopkeepers leave their shops open and go for prayer. Customers come, take what they need, and leave the money there before going.

This really touched me because it shows that even in today’s world, where we often hear about dishonesty and selfishness, there are still places and people where trust is alive. It is inspiring to see that values like honesty, responsibility, and respect are still being practiced today.

The session reminded me that trust is not just an old value but something we can live by even now. If we act truthfully and responsibly, we can also strengthen this culture of faith and honesty in our surroundings.

Aayush Kumar Singh, X-A
Sunbeam School, Ballia

My Good School: A Journey of Lifelong Learning - Sunbeam School, Ballia

My favourite story in the session was The Door-to-Door Bookstore, which beautifully showed how small details make a story feel alive and meaningful. I especially appreciated it when Pramod Sir spoke about the better side of Afghanistan, as it offered me a fresh perspective beyond common assumptions. The discussion on hard work versus skill was also very valuable for me; I realised that in our country, hard work plays a greater role until we reach a certain stage of development, after which skills become equally important. Overall, the session was engaging, eye-opening, and truly inspiring.

Arpita Yadav

Class IX-F

Today’s My Good School session was truly inspiring.
The Meet and Greet with Pramod Sharma Sir allowed us to learn from a veteran educationist who has dedicated 50+ years to shaping education. His presence was a reminder of the value of lifelong learning and the powerful impact a single teacher can create.

The first book reading from The Door-to-Door Bookstore (Chapter 5: Words with Jugjiv Singh) highlighted the importance of words, stories, and conversations in bringing people closer. It reminded me that books are not just meant for reading—they open doors to meaningful connections and thoughtful discussions.

Pranjal Rai
Class IX-D

In today’s session, meeting Mr. Pramod Sharma was truly inspiring. His unwavering determination and clarity of purpose showed us what true passion looks like. As I asked him questions, I realised how deeply committed he is to education and personal growth. His explanation of gratitude reminded us to cherish every moment. One quote I now believe in is: “Purpose fuels passion, and passion shapes legacy.” This session wasn’t just informative—it was a powerful reminder to lead with intention and heart.

Today’s first book reading from The Door-to-Door Bookstore (Chapter 5) made me realise how powerful words and stories can be in connecting people. It showed me that books aren’t just meant to be read—they spark meaningful conversations and help build genuine bonds between individuals.

Janvi Singh
IX-F

Storytelling: A Bridge to Creativity and Connection - Sunbeam School Ballia

Jai Hind, everyone,

This was my third session (though I could join only for the last 20–25 minutes), and once again, it was amazing—full of insights on reading techniques, explanation patterns, and the art of weaving stories through narration.

Today’s session reminded me that storytelling is more than just words—it’s a bridge between minds, turning ideas into experiences. When students share their visions, they don’t just imagine the future; they begin to shape it. Imagination fuels possibility, and stories breathe life into it. Our role is to listen, encourage, and believe in the power of their dreams.

Overall, the session was truly fruitful, offering many practical methods we can adopt in our own teaching.

Thank you, and Jai Hind.

Regards,

Vishakha Singh

Educator

Jai Hind, everyone,

Every Sunday’s session leaves me inspired, and today was no different. The techniques shared for reading, explaining, and narrating stories opened up new ways to engage learners. It proved that storytelling goes beyond speaking—it builds connections, sparks creativity, and helps shape young minds for the future.

Truly, it was a rewarding session with plenty of ideas to bring into the classroom.

Pooja Pandey

Educator

The Spirit of Equality and Devotion - Sunbeam Suncity

 

Life lessons from Allegory: A Tapestry of Guru Nanak’s Travels - Amardeep Singh

The journey of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Bhai Mardana highlights the various religious practices people followed to express their devotion. It also reflects the many challenges they faced in spreading the message of peace, unity, and equality in society. These stories continue to inspire us, showing how dedication, effort, and perseverance—no matter how small—can bring about great change, just like tiny drops of water together form an ocean.
Mayank Malani

This session taught us that we are all equal in the eyes of God. He does not judge anyone based on their religion; what truly matters to Him are our actions, our faith, and our deeds. The water inside the Gurudwara symbolises the peace and purity of the holy place. Even the tradition of serving Langar in the Gurudwara reminds us that no matter one’s caste or status—whether high or low—everyone is treated equally. Everything we receive, including food, is a divine gift from God.

Atulya Jaiswal

Jai Hind, everyone,
In today’s reading session, we learned many inspiring things about Guru Nanak Dev Ji—his teachings, values, and his simple, humble way of life. He was born in Talwandi, which is now in Pakistan. We were deeply moved by the way people worshipped him and how he shared his message with society. As the first Guru of Sikhism, he played a significant role in shaping its foundation and is also regarded as one of the greatest philosophers in history.

Vaidehi

Through this session, I learned that Guru Nanak Dev Ji was the first Guru of Sikhism. He was known for his kindness and humility. His teachings—especially about equality, compassion, and humility—left a deep impact on me. What touched my heart the most was his message of brotherhood among people of all religions—Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, and Christians. He strongly believed that no one should be discriminated against based on their faith. Guru Nanak Dev Ji also taught that truth is understood through pure and thoughtful thinking.

Yuvraj Keshri

A Reflection on Growth and Curiosity - Aayush Kumar Singh

 Good morning and Jai Hind dear readers,

I am Aayush Kumar Singh of Class 10-A, and this is my reflection on the session organised by My Good School.

So, last Sunday, June 8th, was an excellent session! We kicked things off by chatting about everyone's holiday plans and catching up on personal matters. Then, we dove into a website called The Joy of Learning, which got us thinking about why it's so great to continue learning throughout our lives.

We spent a considerable amount of time going through a chapter about Carl and Sabine Gruber, really delving into their story and relationship. And to wrap things up, Manisha Khanna Ma'am led this fantastic, interactive session with riddles that got our brains really working!

Essentially, the key takeaways centred on personal growth, continuous learning, and finding happiness in viewing things from diverse perspectives. Everyone was encouraged to try out new skills, pick up some books, and just stay curious over their holidays. It was a really inspiring meeting!

Good day and Jai Hind

Aayush Kumar Singh

Class 10-A

Sunbeam School Ballia

My Good School on Sunday 25th Aug 2025 - AI Generated Notes

 AI Generated Summary, read with caution and E.&.O.E.

Jugjiv and Sandeep introduced a new book, "My Name is Cinnamon," by Vikas Prakash Joshi. The book tells the story of a young boy's quest to find his biological parents. Jugjiv shared the author's background, highlighting his successful writing career and numerous awards.

Discussing 'The Word From the Author' by Vikas Joshi

Jugjiv led a discussion about the book "The Word from the Author" by Vikas Joshi, with Manisha reading the "Word from the Author" section. The group also included RP Sir, the chairman of Learning Forward India, Sandeep, the founder, and Manisha, the Principal. Jugjiv structured the discussion to alternate between reading the book, asking questions, and reading again. Vikas shared his writing journey, stating that writing was part of his identity, not a compulsion or ambition. The group also learned about Vikas's challenges in publishing his book.

Book Reading and Character Introduction

Jugjiv introduced the book's theme, emphasising the author's intent to reflect the reader's experience and offer a glimpse into other worlds. Vikas Prakash then began reading from the book, starting with the introduction and continuing into chapter one. The reading focused on the main character, Cinnamon, and his experiences as a goalkeeper in a school football championship. The narrative was filled with details that evoked a sense of excitement and tension, culminating in Cinnamon's crucial penalty kick.

Cinnamon's Story: Adopted Child's Achievements and Dreams

Vikas Prakash narrated a story about Cinnamon, an adopted child who loved sports and cinema. Cinnamon's parents, Ma and Baba, were proud of their son's achievements, and they celebrated his success as if he were their biological child. The story also touched on Cinnamon's dream of becoming an Indian football player and winning the World Cup. The chapter ended with Cinnamon receiving a giant fruit instead of a chocolate bar to reward his performance.

Vikas Prakash's Book Reading and Writing Inspiration

Vikas Prakash read the first chapter of his book, "Cinnamon," in front of an audience that included students and teachers. Rajinder, a schoolteacher, praised Vikas' writing and encouraged students to start writing at a young age, citing famous writers who began writing in school. Vikas explained that "Cinnamon" was inspired by his childhood love for reading and his teacher's insistence on correct pronunciation. He also shared that his own life experiences heavily influenced the plot of his book and that the advice of a more experienced writer led him to write about his unique experiences in his first book. Yashraj and Jugjiv listened to his story and reflected on their own experiences, and Vikas emphasised that his book fills a gap in the market for children's books in India.

The Boy Who Grew Up" Book Discussion

Vikas Prakash introduced his new children's book, "The Boy Who Grew Up", which explores themes of adoption, identity, and self-discovery through a humorous and engaging story. He intended to impart positive values to children while tackling serious topics. When asked about the key messages he wanted children to take away from the book, Vikas emphasised the importance of not making assumptions based on initial behaviour and not limiting oneself based on past experiences or mindsets. He also revealed his writing approach, which involves starting with a general idea and allowing the story to unfold as he writes, discovering new elements.

Creating Characters and Overcoming Rejection

Vikas Prakash discussed the process of creating characters for his book, emphasising the importance of making them realistic and relatable. He also shared his experience of rejection from publishers, which he described as a standard and expected part of the writing process. Shubhangi asked about the title of his book, which was initially rejected by publishers but is now being translated into six languages. Manisha asked about the most challenging chapters to write, and Vikas identified two chapters at the end of the book as particularly difficult.

Vikas Prakash's Child Adoption Journey and Writing Process Vikas Prakash shared the emotional challenges he faced while writing about a child's adoption journey, highlighting the complex relationships involved. He revealed that his motivation for writing the book was a childhood dream and a desire to share the story inside him despite the pandemic's challenges. The initial draft took a few months, but reworking and making changes based on publisher feedback took around 6-9 months, totalling 1-1.5 years. The team expressed their gratitude towards Vikas Prakash for his time and insights, and RP emphasised the importance of broadening one's perspective through travel and meeting people from different backgrounds.

Reading the Chapter Street Kids

Challenges in Urban Tree Growth and Care

The discussion centred around the challenges trees face, particularly those planted in urban environments. The speaker highlighted how trees in parks, often not native to the area, struggle to grow in urbanisation's harsh conditions, including compacted soil, lack of open space, and constant human interference. The speaker also noted how the mechanical process of planting and maintaining trees, such as pruning roots, can negatively impact their growth and health. The discussion underscored the need for a more nurturing and supportive approach to tree care and maintenance.

Urban Tree Growth and Maintenance

The speaker discussed the growth and maintenance of trees, using redwoods as an example. They highlighted the contrast between the natural development of old-growth forests and the managed growth of urban trees. The speaker noted that urban trees often suffer from over-pruning, leading to fungal infections and stunted growth. They also pointed out that the compacted soil and restricted growth on the roadside make it challenging for urban trees to thrive. The speaker emphasised the need for a more natural approach to tree care to allow them to grow and develop properly.

Urban Trees and the Challenges They Face

Learning discussed the plight of trees in urban areas, highlighting the challenges they face due to limited space and human interference. The discussion focused on how trees' roots often grow into underground pipes, causing blockages and damage and how this can lead to trees being cut down due to their intrusion. Learning also shared an extensive study by Rohr University that found trees were attracted to loose soil, not extra nutrients, which often led to them growing into pipes. Jugjiv confirmed that he had seen trees growing into concrete in his multi-story condo, and Manisha was asked to reflect on why trees fall. Learning encouraged the team to share pictures and stories of trees affected by urbanisation to raise awareness of this issue.

Urban Trees and Their Stressors

Learning discussed the harsh conditions urban trees face, including the urban microlight climate, heat from asphalt and concrete, and pollution from exhaust fumes and salt. These factors cause stress to the trees, leading to premature death. The oak processionary, a rare species, has become a pest due to the attractive conditions of urban environments. However, trees of the same species planted in rows can communicate and support each other, offering a small consolation. Learning emphasised the need for reflection on the life of a tree in the city and the challenges it faces.

Book Reflections and Group Communication

The group discussed various topics, including a reflection on the book The Hidden Life of Trees and its similarities with Cinnamon. They also discussed the process of writing reflections and how to submit them. Manisha, the facilitator, encouraged everyone to share their takeaways from the book and to write their reflections, which would then be published on the blog. The group also discussed the use of a shared whiteboard for brainstorming and the importance of communication within the group.

AI-generated content.

Please excuse our addressing all participants by first names. This is not intentional, and AI is not good at showing respect and emotions yet. You may discover inadvertent errors. Please do excuse us.

Pamela Atkinson - Mridul Maheshwari

image courtesy - https://www.deseret.com, used by Mridul Maheshwari for representation only

Pamela Atkinson

Today we saw a video about Pamela Atkinson related to her social work - serving others or helping the poor. Pamela believes that 'even small acts of service help change lives. Small things make a difference". 

Over the years, working with the poor, Pamela has learned that service doesn't always need to be huge, it can even be small.

Pamela said, "We should look for opportunities to make a difference in other people's lives-which in turn, make a difference in our own."

  -Mridul Maheshwari (IX)

                                                      Sunbeam School Lahartara

Friends and Family - Rishona Chopra

We unintentionally push people away from us when we meet someone, even if we have known them for a long time. I have faced situations like this. We all need that one friend who is entire to us and no one's friend. We often run after those who don't want us but forget those who want to be with us. What I mean is that friend who wants to be our friend; our parents and god are always there, and they have no one to run after. In this world, we start considering strangers and people outside the family more and start neglecting the friendship in the family. Family, a six-letter word, has 6 meaningful meanings: F -Fair A - Attentive M - Merry I - Impartial L - Loyal Y - Yours To spend time with your family and friends, you don't need friendship, a mother, father, or family day, but love and trust make you love them every day! This doesn't mean you neglect friends, but a balance is needed between friends and family. A fight that can only be resolved by words, I saw one of my friends crying yesterday because he had a fight with his friend, and then the next day, everything was water under the bridge, and the two friends were hugging each other. It sure is an inspirational story! Swami is a boy who loves making new friends and is very amiable; he loves Somu and Sankar, but when he becomes friends with Rajam, he unintentionally neglects them, making Somu and Sankar feel sad and jealous, and they think Swami doesn't care about them anymore. Even though Swami realized his mistake, his friendship with them couldn't be made again with their strong bond earlier. Even though he became friends with new people forgetting old ones isn't considered a good friendship. It hurts to see your best friend become friends with another one, but it is vital to clear misconceptions and patiently forgive. Rishona Chopra Grade VI Gyanshree School