Lola Shoneyin, an esteemed poet, author, editor, publisher, and festival organizer, is spearheading a groundbreaking initiative to revolutionize the Nigerian children’s book industry. In a recent LinkedIn post, Shoneyin shared details of BOOKSTORM, a bold and innovative project designed to nurture and elevate the quality of children’s literature in Nigeria. The initiative was officially launched at the Bologna Children’s Book Fair, a fitting stage for an endeavor that seeks to position Nigeria as a major player in the global children’s book market.
BOOKSTORM’s vision is both ambitious and inspiring. The initiative aims to publish 100 high-quality, affordable children’s books that not only entertain but also inspire young readers across Nigeria. These books will be created by homegrown talent, ensuring that Nigerian stories and experiences are authentically represented in the literature that children consume. Shoneyin’s commitment to this cause is evident in her approach, which goes beyond publishing to focus on training and development within the children’s book value chain.
A central component of BOOKSTORM is its emphasis on capacity building. Recognizing the importance of skilled professionals in the production of children’s books, the initiative seeks to train writers, illustrators, and other key players in the industry. To this end, BOOKSTORM has partnered with Mimaster Illustrazione, a renowned institution that specializes in illustration training. Starting in September 2024, 16 Nigerian illustrators will undergo rigorous training with Mimaster Illustrazione, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to contribute to the creation of world-class children’s literature.
Shoneyin’s vision for BOOKSTORM extends beyond Nigeria’s borders. In her LinkedIn post, she expressed her enthusiasm for connecting with more institutions and professionals across the European Union who are interested in collaborating on this project. By forging international partnerships, Shoneyin hopes to bring a diverse range of expertise and perspectives to BOOKSTORM, further enhancing the quality and impact of the books produced.
The potential impact of BOOKSTORM on the Nigerian children’s book industry is immense. By providing training and support to emerging writers and illustrators, the initiative is laying the groundwork for a vibrant and sustainable literary ecosystem. The books published under BOOKSTORM will not only entertain young readers but also educate and inspire them, fostering a love of reading and a deeper understanding of their own culture and heritage.
Moreover, BOOKSTORM is poised to create significant opportunities for Nigerian creatives. The training programs and publishing opportunities offered by the initiative will help to build a new generation of skilled writers, illustrators, and editors, all of whom will contribute to the growth and development of the country’s literary scene. As these professionals hone their craft and gain experience, they will be well-positioned to take on leadership roles within the industry, further ensuring the sustainability and success of Nigerian children’s literature.
Lola Shoneyin’s leadership and vision are critical to the success of BOOKSTORM. With her extensive experience in the literary world and her deep commitment to nurturing young talent, she is uniquely positioned to drive this initiative forward. As BOOKSTORM continues to gain momentum, it promises to be a game-changer for the Nigerian children’s book industry, setting new standards for quality and creativity while opening doors for countless emerging writers and illustrators.
In conclusion, BOOKSTORM is not just an initiative; it is a movement that seeks to transform the landscape of Nigerian children’s literature. Through training, development, and the publication of high-quality books, Lola Shoneyin and her team are paving the way for a brighter future for Nigerian children and the literary professionals who serve them. As Shoneyin continues to connect with partners and collaborators around the world, the potential for BOOKSTORM to make a lasting impact on the global stage becomes increasingly evident.