Sharjah Children's Reading Festival To Welcome 190 Guests From 25 Countries
The Sharjah Children's Reading Festival (SCRF), organised by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), is set to captivate audiences with its 'Once Upon a Hero' theme from May 1 - 12 at the Expo Centre Sharjah. This premier event, renowned as the largest of its kind in the region, aims to foster a love of literature and storytelling among the youth. This year, it boasts an international participation of 190 guests from 25 countries, showcasing the global appeal and transformative power of stories.
Leading the illustrious lineup is Jerry Craft, an acclaimed American cartoonist and children's book illustrator known for works like "Mama's Boyz," "New Kid," and "Class Act." Alongside him, Raúl The Third, a New York Times bestselling illustrator and author, will share his vivid depictions of the Mexican-American experience, promising a rich blend of art and narrative.
Adding a unique dimension to the festival is Dr. Caroline Leaf, a communication pathologist and neuroscientist from the United States, who will offer her insights into mental health, the mind-brain connection, and memory formation. Her expertise is expected to provide enlightening perspectives to attendees.
The festival's range extends further with talents like Stacy C. Bauer and Ying Ying Ng from Malaysia. Bauer is celebrated for her humorous and relatable storytelling, while Ng's extensive background in music education will offer valuable lessons on creativity and learning. David Chek Ling Ngo, another notable guest from Malaysia and one of the Top 2% Scientists Worldwide as recognized by Stanford University, will contribute his knowledge on leadership and academic excellence.
Global Representation
The SCRF will also host a variety of international figures, including Lia Shalvashvili from Georgia, celebrated for her extensive body of children's literature, and Dr. Al Jones from the United States, a psychologist with a focus on educational and gender psychology. From India, guests like Mamta Nainy, Bethany Clark, and Sohini Mitra will offer their perspectives on children's literature and publishing.
Other distinguished participants include Cathy Camper and Lauren Tamaki from the United States, Joanne Steer from the UK, Dr. Sandy Zanella from Mexico, and Toyin Akanni from Nigeria, among others. Each brings a unique voice and expertise to the festival, enhancing its diversity and appeal.
The SCRF continues to be a pivotal event in Sharjah, underpinning the emirate's commitment to cultural enrichment and education through literature. By assembling a remarkable array of talent from across the globe, the festival not only nurtures the imaginations of young minds but also celebrates the universal and enduring power of storytelling.
Sign in with Google