SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — A love of reading has caught on in Mrs. Garcia's third grade classroom. Much of that is thanks to volunteer reader Mike Murphy. 

Each month, Murphy visits the classroom, reads a book, then gives the kids their own copy of the book. When he returns the next month, he checks in to make sure everyone completed the book and understood it. 

"How great is that? They get their own book that they get to take home and read, and hopefully share with some siblings and maybe their parents," said Murphy. 

These books often include topics and struggles that the kids can relate to, such as changing family dynamics, treating others with kindness, and the differences between needs and wants. As students ask questions and share stories, Murphy is able to provide insight from his own life. 

"One thing about being old ... in 71 years, I learned some lessons in life and I'd like to share those," said Murphy. "I think it's important for them to read and I tell them about some of my challenges in life, too, and let them know that not everything is rosy." 

Murphy is one of over 100 volunteer readers with District 186's Real Men Read program. In addition to connecting with the students and providing insight, he shows that boys can like reading too. This is his second year volunteering, and he said he will continue to help as long as he can. 

"There's been weeks where this is the best thing that has happened to me all week," said Murphy. "It's so fulfilling for me. I don't know if they get anything out of my company, but boy do I get a lot out of them. Every month when I leave here I feel energized and hopeful for the future." 

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