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new face in the film industry, Albert Halim has taken more than just challenging roles in different films.

The 25-year-old actor came into the limelight with his roles in Catatan Harian Si Boy (Boy’s Diary) and the drama flick 7 Hati 7 Cinta 7 Wanita (7 Hearts 7 Loves 7 Women), which earned him a nomination for best supporting actor at the Indonesian Film Festival in 2010. Currently he rubs shoulders with presenter Franda as one of the hosts of The Hits, a popular variety show at TransTV.

Throughout his life, Albert has found finds three books -- the Holy Bible, the Harry Potter series and the Percy Jackson series -- closest to his heart, influencing his life and entertaining him.

The Holy Bi ble

“I rarely read serious books but my favorite book is the Holy Bible. It may not be a popular choice among young people nowadays but that’s OK. People have the right to have their own favorite books, right?

For me, the Holy Bible provides life’s principal guidance. There are many inspiring verses but I think my favorite one is 1 Peter 2:6 — ‘And whoever believes in Him will not be put to shame.’ This verse fills me with courage.

The verse has lifted my spirits many times. I remember the challenges I faced, like when I played in Catatan Harian Si Boy. I was a newcomer compared to my fellow cast members.

There were times when I had a problem in interpreting Herry’s character. Holding on to the verse, I learned from (actor) Om Didi Petet and practiced until the fear eventually went. I believe God will never let me be disgraced. When He gave me this job, He knew I was capable of doing it. That verse helps me to step up and sweep away my doubts.   

 Harry Potter  

I like stories about a group of people who strive to survive in difficult situations, just like Harry Potter and his friends.

I like all seven books of Harry Potter, but the last one is superb. I particularly relish the part when Harry, Hermione and Ron travel by themselves into the woods, trying to survive and struggling hard to find the horcruxes.  

Percy Jackson

I bought the complete series after watching The Lightning Thief, the fantasy-adventure film version of Percy Jackson and the Olympians. The book’s translation was good, so I decided to collect all five books of the series. They tell about the half blood children of Olympian Gods and Goddesses and humans.

I love the last book as it contains cool action parts, especially the time when Percy and his friends want to save Mount Olympus from the attack of the Titans.

When I was buying the books, there were times when I hoped the next book would be thicker. I like books about fantasy and magic flavored with action. That’s why I was thrilled to find I had an action scene in Catatan Harian Si Boy.