Bodour Al Qasimi Becomes First Emirati Woman to Win BolognaRagazzi

Emirati publisher, author, and advocate for women’s empowerment, Bodour Al Qasimi, has made history as the first woman from an Arab Gulf state to receive the prestigious BolognaRagazzi Award for Fiction.

Al Qasimi was honoured for her children’s book ‘House of Wisdom’ during a ceremony held in the historic Farnese Chapel at Palazzo d'Accursio in Bologna. The BolognaRagazzi Awards are among the most sought-after awards in children’s publishing, recognising excellence in graphic design, innovation and engagement with young readers.

In remarks following the award, Al Qasimi emphasized the symbolic importance of the recognition, noting that it reflects a growing momentum toward greater inclusivity within children’s publishing. At a time of increasing geopolitical division, she underscored literature’s unique capacity to foster understanding and unity across cultural divides. ‘House of Wisdom’, she said, serves as a reminder that stories can be a powerful force for connection and mutual progress.

The book took historical inspiration from the renowned House of Wisdom in Baghdad, a powerful emblem of cross-cultural collaboration and intellectual freedom. Its destruction in 1258, she remarked, remains a poignant reminder of how easily the pursuit of knowledge can be lost and must be safeguarded in today’s world.

Its visual narrative is brought to life by illustrator Majid Zakeri Younesi, whose richly detailed artwork enhances the emotional depth of the story.

‘House of Wisdom’ has been celebrated for its capacity to inspire critical thinking, scientific curiosity, and empathy among young readers. It marks a significant step forward in the international recognition of Middle Eastern voices in children’s literature.