BOLOGNA, 24th March, 2022 (WAM) — Folk tales, myths and legends, and their impact on children’s personalities, were the subject of a fascinating discussion conducted recently by the Sharjah-based cultural initiative, Knowledge without Borders (KwB), at the ongoing 59th Bologna Children’s Book Fair (BCBF), where the emirate is welcomed as guest of honour.

Held at the Sharjah Pavilion, the session was moderated by Maryam Al Qasimi, novelist and founder of Aram Publishing; Aisha Maghawour, Secretary General of the Arab Forum of Children’s Book Publishers; Italian writer Gracia Goethe, member of the Italian section of the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY), and moderated by Mariam AlHammadi, director of KWB.

Highlighting the similarities between folk tales across cultures, Maryam Al Qasimi said, “We have all listened to folk tales, whether they are from our region or Arabic translations of stories in other languages . This is what makes folk tales an effective tool for developing the personality of young readers, nurturing their national identity and instilling in them noble human values.”

“In my books, I focus on the revival of traditional craftsmanship which has disappeared over time due to commercial production and the advancement of technology. Craftsmanship reflects the true identity of a society and the community dynamics of the particular period in which they were made, which makes them central to a nation’s cultural identity,” she added.

Goethe noted: “Since we are discussing the importance of folk tales in a cultural event organized by Italy, it is necessary to mention the great Italian writer Italo Calvino who started a project to create an anthology of folk tales from all regions and cities of Italy. efforts have a positive impact on generations of readers as folk tales are not only part of our past but also our present and future as they have always inspired us to be positive in the face of adversity. Folk tales strengthen the relationship between human beings; they help them cope with their feelings such as fear, love, anxiety and hope.”

“I am very impressed with Arab culture and the efforts of Sharjah in particular. I aspire to open a library with multilingual resources in the emirate to provide children and young people with the best books from around the world,” he said. -she adds.

For her part, Aisha Maghawour said, “Folktales are not just for entertainment, but an effective tool for education, learning human values ​​and forming positive behaviors in children and adults. They are not completely imaginary but rather the reflection of individuals and collectives. human experiences.”

“Scientific studies reveal that stories have a therapeutic effect and help readers manage stress and anxiety, helping them to build a balanced and creative personality capable of coping with the challenges they face. Stories reinforce family ties and social relationships, and help promote creativity.They also inspire individuals to support various national and humanitarian causes,” concluded Maghawour.