Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Founder of Kalimat Group, recently led a reading session at the House of Wisdom in Sharjah, during which she read her book “The House of Wisdom” to children.
Recently published by Kalimat Group, the book won the prestigious BolognaRagazzi Award in Children’s Literature—an accolade presented annually at the Bologna Children’s Book Fair since 1966.
The BolognaRagazzi Award, renowned for recognising books distinguished by their content quality and artistic design, is one of the most significant international honours in children’s literature. It celebrates innovation in the field, promotes meaningful storytelling, and fosters a culture of reading among younger generations.
Aimed at children aged nine and above, the book takes readers on a journey through the history of the House of Wisdom—also known as the Grand Library of Baghdad—an iconic institution founded by Caliph Harun Al-Rashid during the Islamic Golden Age. It explores the library’s flourishing influence on the world of knowledge during Al-Ma’mun’s era before its eventual destruction at the hands of Hulagu Khan, leader of the Mongol Empire.
The book highlights the pivotal role of knowledge in shaping the future of societies, inspiring young readers to think critically, appreciate science, explore scientific concepts, and understand their contribution to the progress of nations and the betterment of humanity.
Its engaging narrative is complemented by vivid illustrations that enrich the reading experience, making it more interactive and enjoyable for children.
Reflecting on the award, Sheikha Bodour said, “The House of Wisdom takes readers on a profound journey into the heart of Arab and Islamic civilisation, highlighting a rich legacy that continues to inspire and guide future generations. Through this book, we celebrate the intellectual achievements of Arabs and Muslims, whose contributions laid the foundation for a global renaissance.”
She added, “Through this book, we seek not only to educate Arab generations about their cultural heritage but also to introduce the world to this remarkable legacy, which laid the foundations for scientific research, translation and discoveries across various fields. The knowledge our civilisation has contributed remains a source of inspiration and must continue to thrive in the minds of future generations—just as the House of Wisdom in Baghdad once stood as a beacon of thought and progress.”
She continued: “Observing global progress today may sometimes make us lose sight of its origins, yet every innovation has roots in the vision and efforts of pioneers who sowed the seeds of discovery. Our today’s generations must understand their heritage, drawing strength and inspiration from it to shape a brighter future. We envision the House of Wisdom in Sharjah as a modern-day embodiment of its Baghdad predecessor – a beacon of knowledge that will ignite curiosity and passion for learning among our younger generations and motivate them to carry forward the journey of growth and progress.”
Celebrating the book’s award, Kalimat Group, in collaboration with the House of Wisdom in Sharjah, organised a reading session, creative workshops, and a special art exhibition. The programme commenced on February 20 with a reading session led by Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, attended by a group of children and adolescents.
During the session, Sheikha Bodour highlighted the remarkable achievements of the House of Wisdom in Baghdad, its pivotal role in supporting translators and scholars, and its contributions to the publication of books across various scientific fields, including medicine, engineering, astronomy, and more.
Bodour Al Qasimi highlighted that the House of Wisdom welcomed students from around the world, regardless of their ethnic backgrounds, religious beliefs, or gender. Its visitors spoke a variety of languages, including Arabic, Persian and Aramaic, reflecting a rich cultural diversity that contributed to the flourishing of knowledge and the advancement of science in the Arabic language.
She emphasised that the well-documented account of Caliph Al-Ma’mun rewarding translators with the weight of their translated books in gold serves as a testament to the House of Wisdom’s esteemed status as a global beacon of knowledge.
At the conclusion of the reading session, Bodour Al Qasimi drew a connection between the past and the present, stating, “We will rebuild the House of Wisdom and enrich it with books, manuscripts, and dictionaries. But this time, we will ensure its protection so that it remains a beacon of knowledge and a destination for scholars and seekers of wisdom.”
The reading session was part of a four-day cultural programme that began on February 20, 2025, in collaboration with the House of Wisdom in Sharjah. The programme featured a series of creative workshops and an art exhibition.
On February 21 and 22, French artist Benjamin Bené and Moroccan calligrapher Marouane Aouinat led workshops attended by 40 students from Rubu’ Qarncentres, including girls from Sajaya Young Ladies of Sharjah and boys from Sharjah Youth. During these sessions, the students created artworks inspired by the book’s themes.
The art exhibition showcasing participants’ creations opened on February 23 and will run until February 27 at the House of Wisdom. Benjamin Bené, a renowned French artist honoured by UNESCO in 2012, brought his distinctive approach to visual arts to the workshops. Marouane Aouinat, an influential Arabic calligrapher, is widely recognised for his dedication to preserving and innovating Arabic calligraphy.
The book aims to enhance reading skills and foster critical thinking, inspiring young readers to explore history and appreciate the invaluable contributions of Arab scholars. It will be available for purchase in both Arabic and English at the House of Wisdom bookstore and on the Kalimat Group’s website.
