UAE: Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, a leading figure in the UAE's cultural landscape, participated in a panel discussion at the Thessaloniki International Book Fair (TIBF) highlighting the importance of literature for children.
Highlighting the significance of translation in bridging cultures, Sheikha Bodour stressed the role of books in fostering tolerance and love among young readers. She cited Einstein, underscoring the importance of imaginative stories in children’s cognitive development.
Spark for learning and cultural appreciation
The discussion, titled "Unlocking Worlds: Children's Literature and World Book Capitals," brought together industry experts to explore the role of children's books in connecting cultures. Sheikha Bodour, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) and Founder and CEO of Kalimat Group emphasized the power of children's literature to spark a love of reading, cultural appreciation, and a lifelong passion for learning. She argued that introducing cultural themes to young generations in an accessible manner enhances their potential contributions to society.
Celebrating Sharjah's Literary Heritage and Global Impact
Sheikha Bodour also discussed her own children's book, "World Book Capital," published in Arabic and English by Kalimat Group. The book celebrates Sharjah's tenure as the World Book Capital in 2019 and highlights the city's rich literary heritage.
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Sheikha Bodour pointed out the collaborative efforts of various institutions and individuals that earned Sharjah the prestigious title and explained how her book captures the city's cultural narrative. She spoke about the influence of books on young minds, referencing Einstein's belief in the importance of imaginative stories for cognitive development.
She further elaborated on her experience leading the International Publishers Association and Kalimat Group, highlighting the profound impact of books on a global scale. She explained how Sharjah continued to uphold its status as a World Book Capital beyond the official year, particularly through its community and library at Sharjah's ‘House of Wisdom.’
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Bridging cultures through translation and collaboration
The discussion also touched on the significance of translation in bridging cultures. Sheikha Bodour stressed the role of books in fostering tolerance and love among young readers. Giota Livani, Publisher of Livani Publishing Organisation, praised Sheikha Bodour's book for its artistic message and unveiled the Greek edition during the session, exemplifying the power of collaboration within the World Book Capital network. Livani emphasized the importance of cooperation among various capitals to promote cultural dialogue through literature.
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A testament to the enduring power of literature
The panel served as a reminder of the transformative power of children's literature in shaping global citizens. Sheikha Bodour's book is a testament to the enduring impact of literature in fostering a more connected and empathetic world.
Al Qasimi articulated how children’s literature serves as a vibrant portrayal of cities, igniting a passion for learning and cultural appreciation while fostering a lifelong love for reading. She emphasized the necessity of introducing cultural themes to new generations in an accessible manner, thereby enhancing their potential contributions to society.
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Giota Livani praised Sheikha Bodour’s book for its profound artistic message and unveiled the Greek edition during the session. Livani emphasized the importance of cooperation among various capitals within the World Book Capital network, describing it as instrumental in promoting cultural dialogue through literature.
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The session at TIBF served as a platform to recognize the transformative power of children’s literature in shaping global cultural awareness and promoting cross-cultural understanding. Sheikha Bodour’s book stands as a testament to the enduring impact of literature in fostering a more connected and empathetic world.