They received plaques, a cash prize, a free membership to My Library, and a classic children’s book. The competition was divided into two categories: 8-10 year olds and 11-13 year olds. Stories were judged on their originality and structure. Al Hamra School principal, Arlene Attar, journalist and published writer Claire AlKouatli, and My Library board of trustees member, Sherry Nassif, were the judges who had the task of choosing the winners.

Ghali Al Barakati who wrote a beautiful and moving story about his father, was the winner in the 8 -10 year olds category, while Fatimah Baker, who wrote a fantasy story about a girl and her imaginary friend, was the winner in the 11-13 year olds  category. The judges praised all the children’s efforts and congratulated them on their work.

Attar encouraged the children to keep a journal and write down ideas and new words.  “All good writers have a journal where they jot down ideas and inspiration,” she explained. “By using the five senses, the reader will begin to experience what you (the writer) envision.” She also suggested using literary tools of exaggeration, such as similes, metaphors and hyperboles. 

Nassif, citing the significance of storytelling in the Islamic and Arab World, encouraged parents to read to their children and to bring their children to My Library in order to take advantage of their diverse selection. “Studies have shown that children who read have a better vocabulary and are better writers and make better grades at school,” said Nassif.

“We were thrilled by the quality of many of the stories as well as the twists in plot and surprise endings!” commented AlKouatli. She also spoke directly to the children and told them that they lived in a world of words. “The point of this competition was not just to practice your writing skills; it was to hone all your communication skills, including the process of creating, editing with a parent or mentor, and then verbally presenting your work.”

Alkouatli also had some advice for the parents. “The entries were rich and varied. We saw original works, stories that lifted ideas from classic stories, and also completely plagiarized ones!” She stressed the role of the parent to encourage and guide their children into creating original work without pressuring them. “The parent also needs to encourage interest in writing, and expose children to the beauty and intrigue of the world of writing.”

My Library is doing its fair share to bring the world of words to the children of Jeddah. With a wide selection of books and activities, including storytelling time, My Library offers a great learning environment that doubles as a great venue for bonding and spending quality time with your child. By exposing children to literature in a way that is fun and enjoyable, they are able to further develop their creativity and intellect. My Library is a non-profit children’s library dedicated to bringing books and reading into the lives of Jeddah’s children. For more information call My Library at +966(2) 263-1709.