190 Global Guests To Inspire At Sharjah Children's Reading Festival

The Sharjah Children's Reading Festival (SCRF), a beacon for literary enthusiasts and young readers worldwide, is poised to enchant attendees once again. Organized by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) and scheduled from 1st to 12th May at the Expo Centre Sharjah, this event stands as the region's premier celebration of young imaginations under the banner ‘Once Upon a Hero’. With participation from 190 guests spanning 25 countries, SCRF underscores the timeless allure of literature and storytelling's capacity to inspire across ages.

This year's edition features an illustrious array of speakers and workshop leaders. American cartoonist Jerry Craft, celebrated for his "Mama's Boyz" comic strip and graphic novels "New Kid" and "Class Act", leads the lineup. He is joined by Raúl The Third, a New York Times bestselling illustrator known for his vivid depiction of the Mexican-American experience. Their collective presence promises a rich blend of art and narrative that will appeal to a global audience.

Adding to the festival's diverse program is Dr. Caroline Leaf, a renowned communication pathologist and neuroscientist from the United States, whose work on the mind-brain connection offers profound insights into mental health and memory. From Malaysia, Stacy C. Bauer and Ying Ying Ng share their expertise in storytelling and music education, respectively, while David Chek Ling Ngo, recognized by Stanford University as one of the Top 2 percent Scientists Worldwide, brings his knowledge in leadership and academic excellence.

International luminaries such as Lia Shalvashvili from Georgia, Dr. Al Jones from the United States, and a host of distinguished guests from India, including Mamta Nainy, Bethany Clark, and Sohini Mitra, enrich the festival's offerings. They are complemented by Cathy Camper, Joanne Steer, Dr. Sandy Zanella, Toyin Akanni, Deeba Zargarpur, Liam Kelly, Hannah Moushabeck, Lauren Tamaki, Leila Boukarim, Jane Mount, and Zelmaré Viljoen from various corners of the globe.

The SCRF not only showcases an impressive roster of talent but also embodies the universal power of stories to unite and uplift. Through its engaging talks, panel discussions, and workshops led by accomplished individuals from around the world, the festival continues to foster a love for reading among youth. As it unfolds under the theme ‘Once Upon a Hero’, attendees of all ages are set to embark on a journey through imagination and discovery that celebrates heroes in literature and beyond.

With inputs from WAM