Dr. Ibrahim Al-Kufahi, a professor of literary criticism at the University of Jordan, presents a comprehensive analysis of twenty-seven literary works in his recent book, “Critical Readings in Children's and Young Adult Literature”. The book encompasses a diverse range of stories, novels, and poetry collections created by Jordanian and Arab authors. Al-Kufahi meticulously examines the content, biographies of the writers, literary techniques employed, and their critical perspectives.
In Hassan, the significance of literature in nurturing young minds and inspiring them to overcome obstacles in pursuit of their dreams is vividly depicted through characters like Salma, who aspires to become a fairy tale author. The narrative showcases Salma's creative journey and underscores the symbolic representation of human struggles intertwined with imaginative storytelling techniques.
Taghreed Arif Al-Najjar's novel, “The Sun Will Rise, Even After a While”, delves into the impact of the Syrian war on young individuals. Through a compelling narrative and accessible language, Al-Najjar emphasizes courage and resilience, while seamlessly incorporating colloquial expressions and contemporary themes relevant to the youth.
Wafaa Al-Husseini's story highlights the importance of safety and responsibility among children, portraying the consequences of wandering alone without parental guidance. Through simple yet effective storytelling techniques, Al-Husseini conveys valuable lessons with aesthetic finesse, employing dialogue between animal characters to engage young readers.
Raja Mallah's “The Emerald Garden” explores the bond between children, their families, and their surroundings, emphasizing positive values and fostering curiosity through rich, descriptive language and first-person narration. The story intertwines real-life experiences with imaginative elements, captivating young audiences and encouraging empathy.
Fatima Sharaf al-Din's “The Pear of Milan” tackles the issue of anorexia nervosa, delivering a powerful message through a gripping narrative filled with psychological depth and realistic conflicts. Al-Din skillfully crafts dialogue and utilizes dream sequences and modern communication tools to enhance the storytelling experience and engage readers.
Michel Hanna's “Digital Bridge” merges reality with science fiction to underscore the importance of digital literacy and interpersonal connections in the digital age. Through thrilling adventures and technological challenges, Hanna prompts reflection on the ethical use of technology and the value of genuine human relationships.
Nusayba Hussein Al-Azibi's "The Ogre and the Blackberry Tree” addresses societal issues such as aggression and intolerance among youth, urging readers to embrace compassion and empathy. With a dynamic narrative and a blend of realistic and fantastical elements, Al-Azibi captivates audiences while imparting valuable moral lessons.
Ashraf Abu Al-Yazid's novel explores the relationship between humans and animals, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy to foster imagination and curiosity in young readers. Through an engaging plot and poetic storytelling, Al-Yazid encourages empathy and environmental consciousness, inviting readers on a transformative journey of discovery.
Abdel Hakim Mahmoud's “Amira’s Stories” celebrates individuality and ambition, empowering young readers to pursue their dreams with confidence and determination. Mahmoud employs accessible language and relatable scenarios to convey important life lessons, stimulating imagination and critical thinking skills.
These works represent a rich tapestry of children's and young adult literature, offering diverse perspectives and valuable insights into the human experience. Through compelling narratives, relatable characters, and thought-provoking themes, these authors inspire and enrich the lives of young readers, fostering a lifelong love for literature and learning.
Prepared by: Ana Stjelja
Source / Photo : The AsiaN