Tunis, Tunisia – A recent workshop aimed at bolstering Arab children’s literature concluded in Tunis, marking a significant step in regional literary development. The four-episode intensive training program, held over three-day sessions, equipped both novice and seasoned writers with essential skills for crafting compelling stories for young readers.
The workshop curriculum covered a broad spectrum of topics crucial to children’s literature, including the historical evolution of the genre, a focused examination of Arab child literature, the representation of diverse characters and themes, and tailoring content to specific age groups. Practical exercises also emphasized pre-writng planning, character development, establishing setting and timeframes, and constructing engaging plots.
Organized by the Emirates Literature Foundation, this workshop represents the second such event hosted in Tunisia and the third across the Maghreb region (Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, and Mauritania). A key component of the program was remote mentorship, involving manuscript review and personalized guidance, enabling trainers to provide targeted support and elevate the quality of participant submissions for potential publication in both Arab and international markets.
“The foundation will continue to invest in initiatives that enrich the literary and intellectual landscape, both locally and globally,” stated Jamal bin Huwairb, Chairman of the Emirates Literature Foundation. The Emirates Literature Foundation was established in 2013,and has hosted numerous workshops and literary events,including the annual Emirates Airline Festival of Literature,which attracts authors and readers from around the world.
Participants in the Tunis workshop represented a diverse range of backgrounds and nationalities, including writers from Tunisia, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Lebanon. The workshop was held at the Hotel Africa in Tunis from November 26-28, 2023. The Emirates Literature Foundation plans to expand the program to include additional workshops in other Arab countries in 2024, with a focus on supporting emerging writers and promoting cultural exchange.
