UAE: Children’s books among best sellers at Al Ain Book Festival

Participating publishers and authors at the seven-day Al Ain Book Festival noted that there has been greater awareness among parents to encourage a culture of reading among children.

This year’s edition, held under the theme ‘All Eyes on Al Ain’, offered more than 60,000 book titles by 150 exhibitors, all in a cultural atmosphere hosted by nine key locations across the city of Al Ain till Saturday.

According to participating publishers, children’s books topped the list of best-sellers at the festival organised by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), followed by novels, educational, history, and heritage books.

Leading publishers and young authors shared their experiences with Khaleej Times on a renewed focus on reading, children’s books and giving support to emerging local talents.

“Recently, we have witnessed a significant decline in the level of Arabic language proficiency among children. Parents are now aware of the danger it poses to their children’s future and their disconnection from the Arabic language and culture,” Dr Ahmed Farajallah, director of Bibliosmia House Publishing and Distribution, which was founded by his father in Dubai 35 years ago, said.

“Consequently, they have encouraged their children to improve their Arabic reading and writing skills, which, in turn, created greater demand for children’s books and edutainment content designed to boost Arabic language skills, as well as a resurgence in demand for paper books,” Dr Farajallah said, adding that his publishing house presented a collection of books authored by young Emirati authors. Amira Hassan, an author, said she had been writing short stories since her childhood. Four years ago, she started working towards her dream of becoming a published author. Now, with the support of Bibliosmia, she has four books about self-development in her name.

Mehyar Ali Kurdi, managing director of Mominoun Without Borders for Publishing and Distribution, noted a revitalisation in the publishing sector and book sales.

“I discovered remarkable talents while participating in various children’s writing workshops. With that in mind, I have made Dar Shms a space for professionally nurturing talents. Today, we have 12 Emirati writers focusing on various topics, including sustainability, heritage, and Emirati customs,” Al Qasim added.