Bodour Al Qasimi Becomes First Woman From GCC To Win BolognaRagazzi Award For Children's Literature

Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, an Emirati publisher and author, has achieved a significant milestone. She became the first woman from an Arab Gulf state to win the BolognaRagazzi Award for Fiction. Her children's book, 'House of Wisdom,' earned this honour at a ceremony in the Farnese Chapel, Palazzo d'Accursio, Bologna.

Reflecting on this achievement, Sheikha Bodour expressed that the award represents a shift towards inclusivity in children's publishing. She stated, "For me, this award signals a shift towards a more inclusive children's publishing sector. Amid heightened global tensions, stories like ‘House of Wisdom’ carry a message that books can occasion unity, progress, and a deeper understanding between cultures. It’s a timely statement about literature’s power to build bridges and keep the bigger human picture in view."

The book's illustrator, Majid Zakeri Younesi, contributed significantly with his evocative artwork. Although he couldn't attend the ceremony in Bologna with Sheikha Bodour, he shared his thoughts: "Working on ‘House of Wisdom’ was a unique opportunity to visually capture the spirit of curiosity and innovation that drives humanity’s infinite quest for learning and dialogue, something Sheikha Bodour has so deftly portrayed in her narrative."

Sheikha Bodour also highlighted the historical significance of the original House of Wisdom library. She noted its role as a symbol of knowledge exchange across cultures. "The House of Wisdom was a library that symbolised how knowledge and collaboration across cultures can build sturdy bridges. Its loss in 1258 is a tragic allegory for the fragility of intellectual freedom – a lesson of undiminished relevance today," she added.

The day following the award ceremony, Sheikha Bodour participated in discussions with other BolognaRagazzi Award recipients. During these events, she emphasised storytelling's role in bridging cultural gaps and Sharjah's dedication to fostering knowledge through initiatives like its own House of Wisdom.

Before receiving her award, Sheikha Bodour signed copies of her book at Giannino Stoppani Children’s Bookshop. This bookstore had been restored after being damaged by fire in 2022. To aid its renovation, she allocated substantial funds from the Sharjah World Book Capital Office.

The success of 'House of Wisdom' underscores growing international appreciation for Middle Eastern children's literature. The book is celebrated for encouraging critical thinking and scientific curiosity among young readers while promoting compassion.

With inputs from WAM