Hamad Bin Khalifa University Press Kicks Off New School Term with Launch of Children's Titles
To mark the second half of the current school year, Hamad Bin Khalifa University Press (HBKU Press) is excited to launch a collection of new and classic children’s books in Arabic that are now available for sale
Despite the cancelation of the 2021 Doha International Book Fair as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread of COVID-19, HBKU Press has committed to continue its work to cultivate children’s literature in the region and in the Arabic language.
“As students continue the school year in a blended learning style both online and in person, having engaging reading material available to them has never been more important,” explains Bachar Chebaro, Executive Director of HBKU Press. “HBKU Press has maintained its commitment to ensure that quality educational and entertainment resources in Arabic continue to be produced. Additionally, our authors have been engaging with schools via online platforms to provide book readings and interactive sessions on literacy and learning to ensure our community remains connected and involved.”
Adventures for children in Arabic
In her first foray into children’s literature, established Qatari artist Lina Al Aali debuts her book The Attar Plant. When Jouri first sees the prickly attar plant, she doesn’t like anything about it. Not its shape, size, or the way it looks! She refuses to touch it or taste it. Ripened by the desert rain, the plant still looks like a hedgehog rather than a delectable fruit. But when she sees everyone enjoying the plant’s delicious flavor, will Jouri continue to reject it simply because of the way it looks?
Series
Several series have been translated from various languages into Arabic for children of all ages to enjoy.
Among them are a collection of books by celebrated children’s author Julia Donaldson. Readers can now enjoy the award-winning tales of The Gruffalo, The Gruffalo's Child, The Snail and the Whale, and Monkey Puzzle in Arabic.
Another series now available in Arabic is a collection of illustrated classic childhood favorites like: The Jungle Book, Alice in Wonderland, The Prince and the Pauper, Black Beauty, Gulliver’s Travels, and Beauty and the Beast.
For adventure-seekers, a new series of six Arabic books that are part of The Royal Palace series will also be available for sale. Join a cast of colorful characters in the Sultanate’s royal palace as they frequently get into mishaps and mayhem that need to be resolved. When the Sultan calls, you can always rely on trusty Minister Zarif to save the day. Titles include: The List of the Blind, The Mystery of the Jar of Olives, The Substitute Minister and the Elephant Effect, The Procession of the Sultan, The Stolen Ring, and The Sultan’s Barley Soup.
Perfect for aspiring artists everywhere, the How to Draw series of six books in Arabic combines imagination and learning to ignite the passion of creating beautiful art in the hearts of children everywhere. Featuring many tried and tested professional drawing tips and techniques, young readers will soon be turning their creative works of art into masterpieces.
Something for everyone
Hard copies of these books, and other HBKU Press publications, are available in bookstores across Qatar, and at the Ibn Ryab Cultural Street in Katara. They can also be purchased and delivered to locations in Qatar from the Rafeeq, Snoonu and Purplebox applications (available to download from the Apple Store and Google Play). For more information on how to get a copy of any of your favorite HBKU Press books, follow HBKU Press’ Facebook page (facebook.com/hbkupress) or Twitter and Instagram (@hbkupress) for daily updates.
