Children's books help ‘shape values of future generations'

Children's books are more than stories; they are powerful tools for shaping the values and awareness of future generations.

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This was the central theme of a panel discussion titled Nature stories at the ongoing Sharjah Children's Reading Festival (SCRF) 2025, where acclaimed Arab and international authors explored how literature can inspire young readers to connect with nature and embrace environmental responsibility.

The discussion, which hosted Brendan Wenzel, Ihab Al-Qastawi, and Fatima Salem Al Suwaidi, with broadcaster Nadia Swan moderating it, offered insights into how storytelling can bridge young readers and the natural world, instilling a sense of wonder while subtly encouraging responsibility and care for the environment.

Brendan Wenzel, a New York Times-bestselling author and illustrator who received a Caldecott Honour for 'They All Saw a Cat', reflected on how personal experiences with wildlife shaped his creative journey. He spoke of how observing birds at a feeder as a child sparked questions about their lives and migration patterns, which later inspired him to become an author.