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A creative collective has written, illustrated and published an Arabic children’s book that not only beautifully captures the essence of Bahrain’s heritage and natural wonders but also promotes environmental awareness and friendship.
Loha in a Jam, called Al Loha wa Al Muraba in Arabic, is a colourful collaboration between four female friends — Shaikha Aseel bint Khalifa Al Khalifa, Shaikha Dwa bint Khalid Al Khalifa, Muna Rabieh and Noor Al Shalabi — who wanted to captivate youngsters with the island’s culture through the connection between a boy and the Loha bird.
“We believe Loha in a Jam will not only entertain readers but also raise awareness about Bahrain’s rich heritage and its awe-inspiring natural beauty,” said Shaikha Dwa, who has a master’s degree from the London School of Economics in social and public communication as well as a Master of Arts in Fine Arts Digital from the University of the Arts London.
“It serves as an educational tool for both children and adults alike, fostering appreciation for our remarkable surroundings and the preservation of both our culture and our environment,” the National Council of Arts board member added.
The Socotra Cormorant, locally referred to as Loha, is a threatened species. Since the year 2,000, it has been listed as ‘vulnerable’ on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species due to its small number of breeding localities and ongoing rapid decline caused by coastal development and marine pollution near its nesting colonies.
The same year, it was estimated that the world population was about 110,000 breeding pairs or 330,000–500,000 individual birds. The only protected nesting colony is one of about 30,000 pairs on Bahrain’s Hawar Islands.
Since 2014, photographer and producer Zakaria Omran has been visiting Fasht Al Jarem, and discovered that more than 5,000 Socotra Cormorants have taken the island as its breeding ground.
Nonetheless, this book carries a ‘profound environmental message at its core.”
“Through the events of the plot, readers are reminded of the importance of preserving our surroundings and taking responsibility for our actions,” said Shaikha Aseel, who is the executive director and co-founder of Ajyaal Montessori Education, as well as a Bahrain Bayan School Board of Trustees’ member and Education Committee Chair. The Boston University and Harvard School of Education graduate also served on the Supreme Council for Women, the Bahrain Teachers College and Isa bin Salman Education Charitable Trust.
“The story serves as a gentle yet powerful reminder of our duty to protect and cherish our environment,” added Shaikha Aseel. “However, the essence of this book extends beyond environmental awareness. It also explores themes of forgiveness, compassion, and understanding between two different species—the bird and the boy.
“As readers delve into their journey, they will discover how empathy and mutual respect can bridge gaps. We firmly believe these messages will not only entertain readers but also initiate thought-provoking conversations about our collective responsibility towards nature and each other.”
