Muscat – Reading maketh a full man, but reading habits are fast fading with time and distractions from technology. Though Muscat International Book Fair is rekindling an interest in reading, how can we further encourage young minds to embrace books over screens? Here is what Muscat Daily readers said –

Aisha al Balushi, Homemaker

Muscat International Book Fair has reignited an interest in books, but to encourage young minds further, we must create vibrant reading corners in schools, host storytelling sessions and introduce reading challenges that reward participation. Making books fun and accessible can help divert attention away from screens.

Khalfan al Amri, Private sector employee

The book fair reminds us that knowledge comes best through reading. To engage young minds, schools could invite authors, organise interactive reading workshops and promote creative writing competitions.

Mariam al Farsi, Bank employee

Muscat International Book Fair brings stories alive, but to sustain it, we should integrate reading into everyday life. Family reading time, a culture of gifting books and community reading events can make books more appealing than screens. It’s about creating emotional connections with stories from a young age.

Saif al Amri, Businessman

Children need to see reading as a source of excitement, not obligation. The book fair helps, but parents and teachers must continue the effort. Regular library visits, book clubs and even author meet-ups can inspire them to explore new worlds through books instead of spending hours on devices and TV games.

Priya Verma, Painter and homemaker

The book fair is a celebration of imagination. To further its impact, we can encourage children with fun book review activities and family reading challenges. We can start with comics like Tintin and Asterix. When children find books they connect with, they’ll prefer the joy of reading over the temporary thrill of a screen.

Arjun Kapoor, Private sector employee

Muscat International Book Fair rekindles curiosity. It is difficult to disregard and abandon devices totally in the present era. To keep alive the habit of reading, combining technology with books – like interactive e-books and reading apps – could help bridge the gap.

Alnisa Vikinga, Private sector employee

Parents need to sit down with their children and read for them or let children read for their parents from a book. When you engage kids in reading, kids do more than just absorb information; you offer a rich tapestry of ideas, narratives and perspectives to sift through. Every word or sentence acts as a key, unlocking doors to new thoughts, solutions and inspirations. The more they read, the more they will know.