The Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation has recently published a new book titled “Children’s Literature in the UAE”. The book features research presented during the Al Owais Forum for Children’s Literature in the UAE, organised by the Foundation on November 15, 2023. The forum brought together experts and enthusiasts in the field of children’s literature.
The book’s research addresses various aspects of children’s literature, exploring the literary world of children with a perceptive awareness of the immense potential within this realm. It examines how writers have successfully tapped into this enchanting space within the human soul from childhood, crafting tales, stories, and poems with a thoughtful approach that respects age groups and the unique differences of each young reader.
The book features contributions from several prominent researchers and writers, including Dr. Ali Al Hammadi, discussing “The Role of Children’s Literature in Reinforcing National Identity”, and author Ray Abdul Aal, exploring “Fantasy and Symbolism in Children’s Books.” Author Nadia Al Najjar examines “Self-Awareness in Children’s Literature in the UAE” while Dr. Wafaa Al Shamsi explored “Symbolism and Fantasy in Children’s Stories: Between the Acceptable and the Rejected–An Analytical Reading”. Also contributing to the book is Researcher Amal Farah with an essay titled “The Oldest Arm of Children’s Literature in Media: Magazine Where and Where to Go?”. Additionally, Dr. Haitham Yahya Al Khawaja’s research reflects on “Children’s Literature Between Presence and Dispersion”.
The book also includes two personal testimonies: one by artist and author Fatima Al Ameri on “The Interaction Between Text and Illustration in Children’s Stories” and another testimonial by Dr. Fatima Al Mazrouei about her experience in children’s literature.
As the 27th publication in the Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation’s seminar book series, the book documents seminars held by the Foundation both within and beyond the UAE. The book features an annex with photographs from the art exhibition held alongside the forum. It also featured the first illustrated story for children in the UAE, “The Invented Mouse” written, illustrated and directed by Abdul Aziz Khalil Al Mutawa in 1969. The Invented Mouse is considered a historical document in UAE children’s literature and highlights the nation’s first illustrated magazine for children.
The book’s introduction reads: “Children’s literature has enriched the Emirati cultural scene with a wealth of tales and stories. And now, It is time to document this journey with thoughtful reflections from those who have lived through and witnessed the ascent of this genre to prominence within creative writing. This comes at a time when dozens of writers, poets, illustrators and others actively involved in fields related to children’s realms are contributing significantly to this cultural industry.”
Therefore, the Al Owais Forum for Children’s Literature in the UAE served as a platform to examine this remarkable phenomenon. Its research, compiled in this book, highlights a rich blend of diversity, professionalism, and thoughtful perspectives. The studies are further bolstered by examples, evidence, references and supporting materials, making the book a valuable resource for anyone wishing to explore this field in depth.
The book stands out for its compelling ideas, reflecting the reality of the UAE’s children’s literary landscape. It elevates this field to the ranks of rigorous academic works, making it an essential resource for educational and research institutions, as well as a valuable reference for every researcher and enthusiast.
