18-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
'Felt something powerful': How UAE's Ghaf tree inspired resident to pen children's book
Although not connected in roots, Syrian author Thiba Sharaf says she feels connected to the UAE in spirit, and an instance underneath the national UAE tree, the Ghaf, almost four months ago sparked an idea in her head to write a children's book.
'In many ways, this book is my tribute to the UAE. It's a celebration of the land that has nurtured my dreams, and a way to give back to a place that has given so much to me and to so many others who call it home,' she said.
The book, entitled 'The Ghaf Tree Adventure', was Thiba's way of saying thank you to the country, she said, in which she has resided for over 20 years. 'This land has given me so many opportunities, unforgettable moments, and a true sense of belonging, she said. 'Naturally, that deep connection has found its way into my storytelling.'
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'A serene moment'
On a calm March afternoon, Thiba was seated underneath the shade of the majestic Ghaf tree. She hadn't noticed the tree above her until she saw its branches reflected on the black glass table. She described the image she saw as 'enchanting.'
'The entire day felt like something out of a fairy tale,' she recalled. 'It had rained in the morning, then the sun came out, birds were singing, rainbows appeared; it was nature at its most poetic. And in that serene moment, sitting under the Ghaf tree, I felt something powerful. A line came to me, very simply: 'Under the Ghaf Tree, good luck will be.''
After that occurrence, she said she knew she wanted to write about the Ghaf Tree, not just for its creativity, but for its significance.
The Ghaf Tree, which was declared the national tree of the UAE in 2008, can withstand drought conditions, and can remain green even in harsh desert environments. It is also a historic and cultural symbol of stability and peace in the UAE's desert environment. Thiba said it was important for her to write about the tree as an act of gratitude to the UAE, which she said has given her 'so much.'
The book's main protagonists, siblings Hamdan and Hind, are named after Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and his mother Sheikha Hind. Through those characters, Thiba said she tried to highlight the importance of intergenerational connection; how wisdom and values are passed down from grandparents to parents to children. 'That thread between generations is so vital, especially when it comes to preserving heritage while embracing progress,' she professed.
