The diversity of topics that concern children’s literature, including content sensitivity, silent (wordless picture) books, and ways to further develop the tactile books industry to elevate the knowledge and experiences of young readers, have been tackled by the UAE Board on Books for Young People (UAEBBY) at three intellectual discussions they hosted during their participation at the Turin International Book Fair (TIBF 2019). The discussions were part of ‘Sharjah Guest of Honour’ celebrations.
The panels laid special emphasis on the content and techniques used in books designed for differently-abled and refugee children. In the first discussion, titled, ‘Books, Children and the Dark Side’, was moderated by Eman Mohammed, and featured Emirati Author Alia Al Shamsi, and Italian researcher and author, Dr. Marcella Terrusi. The two literature experts analysed popular dark children’s classics and addressed questions about subjects that should be off limits for children’s books.
Both emphasised that the modern authors must explore their role in approaching new methods and writing techniques, that will turn the violence and hardships in dark classics into something suitable for children. They also presented examples of Little Red Riding Hood, Cinderella, Pinocchio, and other international stories, that modified their plots or conclusions to make them more suited to young readers.
Noting that parents have a key role in protecting children from violent or other inappropriate content, the speakers also shed light on need for stronger dialogue and negotiation between the author and publisher in creating quality content that will ignite young imaginations through themes of love, empathy and understanding, and at the same time, educate them about the realities of life.
