Brazilian teenager Lua Oliveira had the idea to open a public library after visiting the Rio de Janeiro International Book Fair last year and made posts in social networks asking for donations, which went viral. Photo: AFP
Lua has a hungry look on her face as she holds her new book on Nelson Mandela, one of thousands the precocious 12-year-old has amassed for her new library in a poor Brazilian favela.
"I don't read books. I devour them," she says in Rio de Janeiro's Tabajaras neighbourhood, a shantytown perched in the hills overlooking the chic districts of Copacabana and Botafogo.
Subscribe to The Star Yearly Premium Plan for 30% off
Cancel anytime. Ad-free. Full access to Web and App.
Monthly Plan
RM 13.90/month
RM 9.73/month
Billed as RM 9.73 for the 1st month, RM 13.90 thereafter.
Annual Plan
RM 12.39/month
RM 8.63/month
Billed as RM 103.60 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.