As curtains came down on 28th Muscat International Book Fair on Saturday, some visitors shared their experience of the 10-day festival of letters which brought authors and readers together to a journey of knowledge, imagination and creativity. These visitors which include students, authors, publishers expressed their passion for books and the importance of reading.
Adel al Ruziqi from the Finiq book store was surprised at the brisk sale of physical books. "We eagerly await this cultural event every year because the book fair brings together people from all over the world . The crowded pavilions reflect Omanis' love for books, and this is promising. There is a general decline in book purchases due to the availability of audiobooks and ebooks, but the book fair breaks the norm. Many visitors came to buy physical books." He said, "I was surprised to see that the younger generation is demanding history books this year. Surprised to see that despite the rain, many Omanis turned up."
At the fair Amira al Balushi released her book titled "Olive Talk," targeting children aged 5 and above. She described the story as portraying the scene of the first dawn after Palestine's liberation from Israel. Al Balushi explained the joyful scenes of families and friends exchanging congratulations while children filled the streets with laughter and joy.
Another attraction of the fair on Friday was a play by the Sultan Qaboos School for Basic Education titled "My Homeland" at the Children's Theater in the book fair. The play's theme was love of the homeland and the importance of defending it. Rabbits symbolised citizens living safely and happily in their homeland, facing an enemy attempting to seize their homeland. However, the rabbits win over the enemy with wisdom and cooperation.
Al Saayidiah School presented a puppet show for children on citizenship and technology that help instill a sense of responsibility and wisdom in using technology.
Rehab Arslan from the Pakistani School expressed her amazement at the variety of books displayed and her desire to buy them all. "I love books a lot and enjoy reading, but the amount I have with me is very small and not enough for all that I want."
Anabia, from the same school, shared her enjoyment of the book fair with friends, planning to get a collection of stories. However, she mentioned that she did not plan to buy any specific book this time as she had purchased many books last year and had not finished reading them.
Demas Saeed said, "I've previously attended with my family, and this is the second time I've come with friends from school. I enjoyed participating with friends in colouring the beautiful drawings distributed to us last time."
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