DOHA: Qatar Museums (QM) launched three new books at the recently concluded 25th Doha International Book Fair.
QM Family Programmes’ first publication for children is What’s in the Sand? by Qatari writer Sheikha Alzeyara and Qatari illustrator Mai Al Kubaisi.
It is a story of adventure, imagination and a mother’s love and support for her children. Available in English and Arabic, the book aims to encourage literacy from an early age and highlight the importance of a mother’s bond with her young children to learn and play together.
To mark the book release, story reading, hands-on activities and book signing were organised at the fair.
Maram Al Mahmoud, Museums Coordinator, QM Family Programmes, said, “The idea of the book sprang from a workshop held for mothers and children aged up to four.
“We realised the need for a publication to support family learning. It is important to highlight all Qatari cultural content on offer and support Qatari writers and illustrators,” he added.
“It was an honour to cooperate with QM through this book and participate with Family Programmes in their creative activities which aim to support Qatari families by enhancing the bonds between its members in inspiring ways.
“What’s In The Sand? is a story that urges mothers to enrich the imagination of their children through play, discovery and sharing moments.
“I would like to thank QM for their innovative ideas in nurturing children’s culture in modern ways and through interactive programmes,” said Alzeyara.
“What’s in the sand? was my first peek into the world of children’s books. It was exciting to be part of it and I felt the lightness, simplicity and joyful nature of the story. It was a unique experience I will cherish for days to come,” said Al Kubaisi.
Fatema Al Sulaiti, Associate Deputy Director for Collection, QM, also launched two of her latest books – Fatimid Woodwork and Architecture Development.
Fatimid Woodwork highlights a unique craft and medium of design in the Fatimid era. It presents examples of the finest Fatimid woodwork of Islamic and Coptic origin and aims to show that Fatimid art is a historic style in its own right.
Architecture Development provides insight into how traditional Islamic towns and cities were conceived, organised and developed over time, following simple rules based on religious and ethical values. The books are available at QM’s retail outlets at Museum of Islamic Art, Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art, Al Zubarah, QM galleries at Al Riwaq and Katara and Virgin Megastore and WH Smith in Doha. The Peninsula
