Video: Fairy tales spark intelligence in children, UAE’s Sheikha Bodour tells Thessaloniki International Book Fair in Greece

Video: Fairy tales spark intelligence in children, UAE’s Sheikha Bodour tells Thessaloniki International Book Fair in Greece

Thessaloniki: Literature, which is filled with imagination and creativity, plays an essential role in children’s development, Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), said during a panel discussion at the Thessaloniki International Book Fair (TIBF) in Greece.

Citing Einstein, Sheikha Bodour emphasised the importance of stories in children’s development: “If you want your children to be intelligent, read them fairy tales. If you want them to be more intelligent, read them more fairy tales,” she commented, underscoring the vital role of imaginative stories in stimulating creativity and enhancing intelligence in young minds.

Sheikha Bodour, who is Founder and CEO of Kalimat Group, detailed how such literature can vividly depict cities, spark an enthusiasm for learning and cultural appreciation, and nurture a lasting affinity for reading. Sheikha Bodour emphasised the importance of introducing cultural themes to new generations in an accessible way, enhancing their future contributions to society.

“In today’s world, where online platforms compete for children’s attention, it is challenging to capture their focus. As writers, publishers, or illustrators, our task is to create engaging content that nurtures their love for reading,” Sheikha Bodour said.

Sheikha Bodour was joined by Giota Livani, Publisher of