SIBF 2022: Books are Therapeutic and Affect Quality of Thinking, say Children's Literature Experts

Panellists called on parents and educators to ensure children do not miss out on passion for words amid technology splurge

Sharjah, November 03, 2022:  In a session titled 'Children's Literature and the Future' at the ongoing 41st edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2022), panellists stressed that children's literature must reflect the changing environments, pointing out that youngsters today are flooded with information and need much more than simple fables to stimulate their brains. 

Emirati writer and critic Dr. Fatima Al-Ma'amari discussed ways to stimulate young minds on intellectual, emotional and psychological levels. 'Kids today can be anything they want, but this often leaves them confused. In a world flooded with information, children's literature must help kids make the right choices,' she said.

'The artistic mind of a child is very important. We need to address the issues affecting the youngsters through more appealing literature, both visual and verbal content,' she added.

Rama Kanawati, journalist and children's literature author, said there is a huge gap between ideas presented in children's literature and the realities they live in. 'Young minds need much more than simple storytelling to match their imaginations. Globalisation and technological revolution have taken away the curiosity of information from the younger generation. Today's reality is much different than what is depicted in children's books. The mindsets of kids' are evolving with more choices, and the books need to address these changes,' she said.