Kids reading fest from April 19

sharjah — The 9th edition of the Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival (SCRF) will be held from April 19 to 29, the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) has announced.

Themed ‘Discover Beyond’, the SCRF 2017 will be held under the patronage of His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah; and Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of His Highness The Ruler of Sharjah, and Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs.

“Inspired by the vision of Dr Sheikh Sultan, Sharjah has succeeded in instilling a culture of reading in people of all ages,” said Ahmed Al Ameri, Chairman of SBA.

Al Ameri added that the SCRF has turned into an integrated annual event that brings together all family members and those who love reading, and enjoy its various events. “The SCRF 2017 will see several new events, with a focus on shows and activities that are specifically designed to encourage reading in both youngsters and adults. Training workshops will also be conducted to reinforce children’s talents and abilities in scientific, literary and artistic fields.

“In line with this, the SBA has expanded its network of partners in order to strengthen the event’s status as a unique destination for children and students,” he said.

The festival will feature a programme of entertaining and educational events that combine the latest technology and visual arts to unlock and nurture the skills of children and young adults.

The SCRF also aims to give illustrators and artists the opportunity to showcase their works and offers a place for readers, authors and publishers to meet, network and interact. It features a range of special awards ceremonies, including the Sharjah Children’s Books Awards and the Sharjah Award for Specially-Abled Children’s Books.

reporters@khaleejtimes.com