Exploring the Magic of Rhymes and Illustrations: A Dialogue at the Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival
Sharjah, April 29, 2025—At the 16th edition of the Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival (SCRF), a dynamic conversation unfolded around the transformative power of rhythm, repetition, and visual storytelling in children’s literature. The session, aptly titled “The Charm of Rhymes in Children’s Books,” featured insight from notable figures in the field: Sital Gorasia Chapman, a British author known for her innovative approach to children’s stories, and Baraa Al Aawour, a Palestinian illustrator celebrated for her evocative artwork.
Moderated by Tasneem Zeyad, an educator and author, the dialogue delved into the core elements that not only captivate young readers but also create lasting emotional connections. Chapman, reflecting on her first book, The Bedtime Boat, asserted that rhymes serve as a bridge between parent and child, evoking a sense of comfort akin to a lullaby. “You can read a rhyming book repeatedly without it losing its charm,” she proclaimed, emphasizing the serenity that rhythmic language brings to bedtime narratives.
Chapman’s journey into the literary world initially began in a starkly different environment—banking. Yet, her evolution into a writer quickly transformed when she became a mother. “My children are my constant inspiration,” Chapman shared, recounting how their unique perspectives and playful conversations fuel her creativity. The Bedtime Boat, short-listed for the Children’s Well-being Book of the Year in 2024, tells a soothing story about a boy named Chandan who imagines a boat sailing on his tummy, an imaginative tale that doubles as a mindfulness exercise.
The author, who integrates yoga techniques into her narratives, believes in the significance of mindfulness, particularly in an increasingly chaotic world. “I first applied these yoga principles with my children, and I believe it helps them find peace and relaxation,” she explained. A collaborative spirit permeated her remarks as she praised her illustrator Anastasia Suvorova, highlighting the essential partnership in creating engaging children’s literature. “It’s a 50:50 effort,” she noted, underscoring the importance of visual artistry in storytelling.
Baraa Al Aawour, whose accolades include the prestigious Etisalat Award for Children’s Literature, underscored the importance of rhyme not merely as an aesthetic embellishment but as a fundamental structure that aids cognitive development. “Rhymes create an immersive world for children, and the repetitions enhance their memory,” she articulated. Al Aawour’s illustrations breathe life into narratives like Near the Tent, Under the Cloud, which poignantly depicts the experiences of children in Gaza. Through her artwork, she conveys fragments of joy and resilience, often grounded in the stark realities faced by her subjects.
In discussing her creative process, Al Aawour highlighted the necessity of understanding children’s psychology to effectively capture their perspectives. She noted, “The phrase ‘once upon a time’ is more than a story’s opening; it serves as a gentle invitation for children to enter a narrative space.” However, she also acknowledged the challenges of maintaining freshness in repetitive motifs, countering monotony by incorporating diverse elements into her illustrations, such as new backgrounds or character interactions.
SCRF 2025, which runs until May 4 at Expo Centre Sharjah, is a celebration of literacy and cultural exchange, featuring an impressive lineup of 133 guests from 70 countries and showcasing the work of 122 Arab and international publishing houses from 22 nations. Organized by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), the festival emphasizes the importance of literature in nurturing imagination, emotional intelligence, and empathy among younger audiences.
As discussions like those witnessed in “The Charm of Rhymes in Children’s Books” unfold, there lies a broader recognition of the impact that storytelling has on the development of children, both cognitively and emotionally. The emphasis on rhythmic language and engaging illustrations serves not only as a vehicle for entertainment but also as a foundational tool for learning and growth.
In this vibrant festivity of words and art, the future of children’s literature continues to evolve, igniting a passion for reading and creativity in the hearts of young minds across the globe.
-ENDS-
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