The UAE Board on Books for Young People, UAEBBY, has organised a three-day workshop with the aim of showing the importance of illustrations in children’s books and the integral part they play in helping to foster a love of literature in young readers.

Marwa Al Aqroubi, President of the UAEBBY Executive Board, said, "Bright drawings and illustrations that accompany the story give real meaning to the words and put the writing into context for the very young. It is the start of what can be a life-long love of reading and an introduction to a new world of literature.

"We must make every effort to maintain the excellent standards of art that accompany these books and continue to attract our children through such an influential medium. We must also remember that art, like literature, can help a young child to discover his own identity and cultural heritage."

Dr. Shaima Elbardawil, Graphic Design and Multimedia Programme Coordinator, from Sharjah University’s College of Fine Arts, said, "Illustrating children's books workshop was inspirational to the Graphic Design and Multimedia senior students. The workshop offered them an intense practical experience in illustrating imaginative characters, objects and scenes. The illustration process enabled our students to explore their potentials as storytellers and creative thinkers. This aligned with our teaching strategy at the College of Fine Arts and Design in the University of Sharjah, as we always encourage students to express their creativity through various forms of art."

The workshops were held by Abdulla Al Sharhan, an Emirati entrepreneur and artist with more than 11 years of experience in children’s media and innovation. He is the creative director of the Arabic version of 'Sesame Street' and the editor of the '999' children’s magazine. Al Sharhan is best known for his creation of the popular Hamdoon cartoon character, which was used as the promotional face of Abu Dhabi from 2009-2013 and was turned into an animated TV series in 2012.