Veteran author of children’s books Abdolmajid Najafi was honored at the Tabriz branch of the Institute for the Intellectual Development of Children and Young Adults (IIDCYA), on December 21.
Over 50 writers in the field of children’s literature attended the ceremony and speakers praised Najafi for his long years of writing activities, Mehr News Agency reported.
Born in Tabriz in northwest Iran, Najafi, 57, holds a master’s degree in Persian language and literature. He has cooperated with the IIDCYA for many years.
The IIDCYA is an Iranian institution with a wide range of cultural and artistic activities in the field of mental and cultural development of children and young adults.
Referring to the selection of topics for his stories, Najafi said that the historical and ethnic structure of Tabriz inspires him in his writings.
“I feel honored to be writing for children, every word that I have written for them. Every moment I spend with children is rewarding and I feel elated.”
Researcher, author and translator of children’s books Hedieh Sharifi, one of the speakers, said, “He is not only a writer but also a reader, a researcher and a literary scholar. Najafi knows how to draw inspiration from his native cultural roots.”
Author, researcher and critic in children’s literature Mehdi Hejvani said there are two ways to learn about the culture of a region: looking up encyclopedias or reading the works of authors who have devoted themselves to their birthplace. Najafi’s works are like an encyclopedia on Tabriz as important places have been introduced.”
Najafi has published over 60 books and held several workshops for young people interested in writing.
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