12-Year-Old US Girl Donates Over 8,000 Books to Children

Sophia Parekh, a 12-year-old from New Jersey, has distributed more than 8,000 free books to children nationwide through her initiative, Sophia's Book Stand. Started during the COVID-19 pandemic, the project also supports teachers in underserved schools. Her inspiring community service recently earned her recognition as a runner-up for the 2026 Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes.