The Palestinian Writing Workshop’s (PWW) Book & Storytelling Project is publishing five new children’s books (in Arabic) using local Palestinian writers, illustrators and printer. This effort will produce 1000 copies of each book (5000 books total); 300 books will go directly to the 60 Nabulsi’s who will be trained in storytelling (see below). The creation of these locally produced books are one of a kind as there are very few locally written children’s books (most children’s books in Palestine are from Jordan, Lebanon, other nearby countries, or English-only books from abroad).
The PWW is training women and men to read aloud (storytelling) using these books (and other books) in libraries and public centers in five Palestinian cities (Bethlehem, Jerusalem, Hebron, Nablus, Ramallah). Approximately 60 participants will be trained in each city. Participants will also be encouraged to take these books into homes and villages to do storytelling.
Why storytelling and reading aloud?
- Among other things, reading aloud builds word-sound awareness in children, a potent predictor of reading success.
- The nurturing and one-on-one attention during reading aloud encourages children to form a positive association with books and reading.
- Reading aloud is a proven technique to help children cope during times of stress and tragedy.
- Reading aloud in the early years exposes children to story and print knowledge as well as complex words and ideas not often found in day-to-day conversations or other media.
- Reading aloud gives children the opportunity to practice active listening.
- The value of the book is enhanced as an essential tool for knowledge and entertainment.
Below are the five new covers for the five new books:
