World Children’s Book Day, observed on April 2, is a global occasion dedicated to nurturing a love of reading among children and highlighting the importance of high-quality children’s literature. The day is supported by the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY), which promotes the publication, distribution, and appreciation of children’s books worldwide. It also emphasizes the vital role literature plays in the education and development of children and adolescents.
Making Books Attractive to Parents First
In an interview with Sayidaty, children’s book author and founder of Head in the Stars publishing house, Saria Hanna Matra, shared insights into her approach to engaging both parents and children.
She explains that before attracting children, it is essential to attract parents—since they are the ones who purchase the books. Her strategy focuses on creating books that appeal to adults as well as children, often featuring well-known cultural figures such as the singer Fairuz and the poet and artist Etel Adnan.
According to Matra, parents are drawn to books with beautiful illustrations, high-quality design, and meaningful topics. Many also prefer giving these books as gifts, appreciating their lasting value across generations.
Children’s Books: Then and Now
When asked about the themes of Arabic children’s literature in 2026, Matra notes a clear shift. In the past, books often focused on traditions, rural life, and cultural heritage. Today, however, they increasingly reflect modern themes related to children’s everyday lives.
She also highlights the growing improvement of Arabic children’s literature, which is becoming more competitive with foreign-language books. While foreign books were once preferred, the Arabic market is now gaining popularity alongside them.
Encouraging Reading in the Digital Age
As a publisher, Matra actively works to encourage reading among children and parents. She participates in book fairs, engages on social media, and ensures her books are available through online platforms, bookstores, and concept shops.
She notes that despite a global decline in book consumption, children’s books remain in demand because they support learning across many areas of life. However, she also acknowledges the challenge posed by digital distractions such as smartphones, tablets, and gaming devices.
She stresses the importance of parental guidance and recommends setting aside at least 30 minutes daily for reading before bedtime. According to her, this is a collective responsibility shared by parents, teachers, and society as a whole.
Challenges in Publishing Children’s Books
Matra describes publishing today as increasingly difficult worldwide. One of the biggest challenges is the dominance of digital devices in children’s lives, which often compete with reading habits.
She emphasizes the need for awareness among parents to ensure that digital entertainment does not replace books. Instead, reading should remain a daily habit that supports learning and imagination.
Why She Writes for Children
As a mother of two young children, Matra explains that recent difficult events in Lebanon deeply influenced her work. These experiences created a concern that children might grow up without a strong sense of identity or emotional connection to their homeland.
She believes in giving children “roots and wings”—roots to feel proud of their heritage, and wings to dream and grow. Through her books, which highlight prominent Lebanese figures, she hopes to instill pride, belonging, and inspiration in young readers everywhere.
Conclusion
World Children’s Book Day serves as a reminder of the powerful role literature plays in shaping young minds. As authors and publishers continue to adapt to modern challenges, their mission remains the same: to inspire children, strengthen their identity, and cultivate a lifelong love of reading.
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