We were honored to be invited to a recent roundtable discussion focused on the continuity of classic children’s literature. The event was moderated by Mikhail Viesel, the renowned translator, critic, and author, who is also the editor-in-chief.
The discussion held on 2024-12-06, featured an esteemed panel of speakers, including:
- Natalia Kostyushina: Head of the Center for Bibliography of Children’s Literature at the Russian State Children’s Library.
- Anastasia Orlova: Children’s poet, writer, translator, and publisher.
- Sofia Remez: Children’s writer.
- Daniela Pareschi: Children’s writer and illustrator.
- Ali Asgari: Representative from Houpa Publishing House.
- Shiva Azimi: Representative from TUTI Books Publishing House.
Key Highlights from the TUTI Books’ Speech on Why Classic Children’s Literature Still Matters:
- Connection to Heritage: Classic literature serves as a bridge to the past, helping children understand historical struggles and triumphs, grounding them in their cultural heritage.
- Broadening Perspectives: These stories expose young readers to diverse cultures, fostering empathy and understanding—essential qualities in our interconnected world.
- Critical Thinking: Engaging with complex themes in classic literature encourages children to think critically and engage in meaningful conversations about love, justice, and identity.
- Language Skills: Reading well-crafted prose enhances vocabulary and communication skills, reminding us of the beauty of language in an age of brevity.
- Imagination and Creativity: Classic tales ignite imagination, transporting readers to fantastical worlds and inspiring innovative thinking—crucial in today’s rapidly changing environment.
- Richness of Iranian Literature: The richness of Iranian literature has led to numerous excellent rewritings and spin-offs, presenting these masterpieces to younger audiences in engaging ways. TUTI has always dedicated a part of its portfolio to this endeavor, featuring works from talented authors like Ahmad Akbarpour, Mohammadreza Shams, and Farhad Hasanzadeh.
- Conclusion
In conclusion, immersing children in classic literature equips them with valuable tools for personal growth and a deeper appreciation of the human experience. By sharing these enduring narratives, we can ensure that their profound insights continue to resonate for generations to come.
