I hope to write about things that change the world, where literature and literary events play a vital role that combines innovation and creativity. In this context, the Fujairah Children’s Book Fair provides the new generation with the opportunity to explore new worlds that transcend the traditional boundaries of books. The event encourages children to engage with their culture and national identity through educational and literary experiences that align with community aspirations.
Fujairah: A Meeting Place for Creativity and Identity
Amid the aroma of ancient tales and the glow of childhood imagination, the Fujairah Children’s Book Fair continues its activities, offering the new generation an experience that goes beyond paper and ink into a space that preserves identity. The exhibition is adorned with Emirati heritage, which has taken on a new form, as the values once narrated by grandmothers transform into artistic scenes and contemporary stories told by children’s innocent and amazed hands. The fair, which runs until November 2 at the Dibba Exhibition Center in Dibba Fujairah, highlights the importance of literature in changing the world by deepening cultural understanding.
New Voices: Mohammed Al Kaabi and Children’s Creativity
In a scene that embodies the new generation’s awareness of the importance of words and their role in change, young writer Mohammed Al Kaabi (third grade) presented his reading of the story “Where Did My Toys Go?” during the fair, delivering an educational and environmental message that encourages children to recycle and make use of unused toys instead of discarding them. Al Kaabi’s work embodies the fusion of imagination with responsibility, instilling values of creativity in young minds.
Al Kaabi conveyed a heartfelt message during his statement: “I feel proud that my story has reached this level, and I hope to write new works and stories about our Emirati environment and the simple things that can change the world.” His participation reflects a new generation of writers who view literature as a means of self-expression and community service.
Workshop from the Memory of the Past
The heritage corner at the fair saw a significant turnout during the workshop “From Grandmothers’ Memory: Folk Tales,” presented by writer and heritage researcher Khaled Al Hendasi. Al Hendasi discussed the importance of folk tales as a fruitful educational tool that helps pass on values and cultural heritage to new generations. He noted that some heritage terms have begun to fade from children’s memories “because we have given them devices more than we have given them stories.”
The workshop addressed the role of traditional stories in instilling concepts of good and evil and authentic values such as honesty and integrity. It emphasized the importance of children interacting with their past, reminding them of the values of honesty and respect ingrained in their national identity.
Live Experiences and Inspiring Workshops
The “Sana Al Majalis” event was added on the fourth day of the fair to introduce children to Emirati hospitality customs and the etiquette of gatherings. Additionally, the workshop “My Grandmother Ghabisha” provided a live experience that recaptured the warmth of the past through grandmothers’ stories, combining nostalgia with real-life experiences. These activities foster meanings of kindness and respect and strengthen the connection to social heritage.
In another exciting station, the workshop “My School is Diverse” by writer Mohammed Al Nablsi explored the concept of cultural diversity and respect for differences, showcasing the UAE’s experience in embracing over 200 nationalities in an environment characterized by tolerance. Interestingly, the “Poetry Painting” workshop illustrated the relationship between words and color, as poet Mohammed Al Muteem transformed selected poems into expressive paintings created by children, reflecting the idea that moral beauty can be seen as well as heard.
The various activities at the Fujairah Children’s Book Fair demonstrate how literature and culture can bring about radical change in children’s lives, reminding them of the importance of their identity and the positive change that the new generation can achieve.