Latest news with #LamyaTawfik
Sharjah 24
01-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
Is the tradition of bedtime stories fading away? Expert at SCRF
Moderated by Dr Lamya Tawfik, the discussion featured celebrated Canadian children's author Rukhsana Khan and Saudi academic and storyteller Amal Muhammad Ibrahim Al-Hanqari. Talking about the pressures of parenting in today's digital age, Khan reflected on why bedtime stories still matter: "Children need time to decompress, and stories – especially at bedtime – give them that space. These stories act like emotional bridges that connect parent and child; they help fine-tune their moral compass, instill empathy, and create a sense of security in a fast-paced, distracted world." Sharing her personal experience with her grandchildren, the Toronto resident then highlighted the lasting impact of storytelling on a child's learning journey: 'I have thirteen grandchildren, and I've read to all of them. Starting early gives them a foundation that stays with them for life.' Meanwhile, Saudi researcher and author Al-Hanqari shared her thoughts on the intentionality behind a parent's storytelling choice. 'When a mother or father selects a certain story, it's often tied to a value they want to pass on. Through storytelling – adjusting their tone, mimicking the wind or the action of sleeping, let's say, with a lullaby – they speak from the heart. That kind of connection leaves a lasting emotional imprint,' she said. Al-Hanqari, who has studied and continues to work on preserving traditional Arab storytelling, then went on to explain the power of storytelling in today's technology-driven world: 'In a time when technology often isolates us, a simple story from our culture or childhood can rebuild those bonds. It reminds children where they come from, strengthens their sense of identity, and nurtures a deeper connection between parents and children.' The panel then reflected on how screens have crept into bedtime routines, often replacing books and shared moments with scrolling and solitary viewing. Yet, they remained optimistic that storytelling can evolve. The highly engaging seminar was part of SCRF 2025's ongoing cultural programme held under the theme Dive into Books. The festival continues until May 4 at the Sharjah Expo Centre, offering dozens of such timely conversations around reading, childhood, and creativity.
Sharjah 24
29-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
Heroes, villains, power of imagination take centrestage at SCRF
Titled 'Beyond Imagination' and moderated by Dr Lamya Tawfik, the panel discussion saw Sarwat Chadda, Dr Fatima Al-Zahra' bin 'Arab, Maitha Al Khayyat, and Hessa Al Muhairi share the secrets behind building unforgettable heroes, crafting thrilling worlds, and turning simple ideas into extraordinary stories. A hero often believes they want something badly, but the real story lies in discovering what they truly need Al Khayyat, the author of The Pearl Diver's Daughter and The Cowrie Necklace among others, spoke passionately about the emotional journey of heroes. 'A hero often believes they want something badly, but the real story lies in discovering what they truly need,' said the Emirati author while using her own narrative to illustrate how her protagonist's dream of finding a pearl transforms into a deeper understanding of sacrifice and family legacy. 'In my book, the young girl dreams of finding a pearl to prove her worth, especially as others taunt her for not having one despite her father's legacy. But by the end, she realises that the true treasure is not the pearl itself, but the sacrifice her father made for her.' The best thing you can do is connect the hero and the villain's journeys Al Muhairi, known for titles like Whose Footprints Are These? and Dinoraf - which won the Sheikh Zayed Book Award in the Category of Children's Literature, said: 'The best thing you can do is connect the hero and the villain's journeys,' she said. 'They might believe in the same goal, but the way they act on it is different — the hero uses it for good, while the villain twists it for control. In my latest book, my character comes from a planet where knowledge is collected to benefit everyone, but in another world, that same knowledge is used to dominate others.' Meanwhile Dr Al-Zahra' bin 'Arab, an academic and author skilled in weaving complex narratives, shed light on the meticulous art of crafting children's stories. "Writing a children's book differs from writing a novel," she said. "I arrange events carefully to build a logical progression towards the end." She described her process as a 'spiral' – drafting, revisiting, and reshaping characters until they live and breathe on the page. Dr Fatima also stressed the importance of authentic dialogue, noting, 'Each character must have their own voice, accent, and freedom to live or die. Dialogue should never be imposed.' Sarwat Chadda, the internationally renowned author of Ash Mistry and the Savage Fortress and other gripping fantasies, brought a lively energy to the discussion. Speaking about the timeless appeal of powerful antagonists, he said, 'Wisdom is often in the enemy. Think of Hannibal Lecter – he's the smartest man in the room. In the Ramayana, Prince Ram seeks blessings from his enemy because wisdom demands respect, even from a rival.' Dialogue in romance is often the opposite of what characters actually mean On a lighter note, Chadda admitted that romance, not horror or monsters, terrifies him the most as a writer. 'Dialogue in romance is often the opposite of what characters actually mean,' he quipped. "Pride and Prejudice is the perfect example – just say you love her! That tension, that subtext, that's the real challenge.' The session concluded with a spirited Q&A, where the authors encouraged young writers to trust their instincts, embrace imperfections, and above all, dare to dream beyond imagination.
