Authors call for child-centred stories in Arabic children's books

The aesthetics of Emirati and Moroccan children's books

This was the central message of a dialogue titled “The aesthetics of Emirati and Moroccan children's books”, organised by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) as part of Sharjah’s Guest of Honour programme at the 30th Rabat International Publishing and Book Fair. The session featured Emirati author Fatima Al Ameri and Moroccan writer Mustafa Al Nahal, and was moderated by Emirati poet, Sheikha Al Mutairi.

Identified key challenges facing Arabic children’s literature

Addressing the session, Al Nahal identified key challenges facing Arabic children’s literature, most notably the persistence of adult-dominated narratives that fail to centre the child’s perspective. He criticised the prevailing tendency among publishers to treat children as passive readers, noting the lack of specialised psychological consultants in the production process who could ensure developmentally appropriate content.

Al Nahal cited a leading initiative in Meknes, Morocco, that has involved teachers and educators in the content creation process - an approach that has since gained traction and led to the development of more resonant and effective children’s stories. He also offered a historical overview of Morocco’s publishing efforts in this field, highlighting the role of author Mohamed Al Ashari during his tenure as Minister of Culture. Al Ashari had encouraged publishers to allocate part of their output to children’s books, spurring a wave of innovation including the simultaneous release of colour and black-and-white editions to tackle cost-related accessibility challenges.

Shared insights from evaluating stories written by children themselves

Fatima Al Ameri, drawing on her experience with the UAE Board on Books for Young People (UAEBBY), shared insights from evaluating stories written by children themselves. She noted that young writers often demonstrate a natural affinity for movement, imagination and sensory detail, referencing one story where a child envisioned a hand turning into an octopus.

Al Ameri stressed that authentic children’s literature must avoid over-simplification and instead be informed by a deeper understanding of how children perceive and construct the world around them. She argued that when given the freedom to express themselves, children are more than capable of creating intricate and imaginative storylines.

She also spoke about the production hurdles facing the children’s book industry, particularly the high costs associated with illustrations, paper stock and cover design. She affirmed that investment in these creative and material elements is essential to stimulate children’s interest and foster a love for reading.