Two Bahrain residents are celebrating the success of a children’s book they launched earlier this year.
Since Serafín y un caimán en la despensa (Serafín and an Alligator in the Pantry) went on sale in Spain in January, more than 200 copies of the book have been sold so far.
Written by Carmen Corral and illustrated by Alexandra Novik-Khamis, the 20-page hardcover Spanish-English book aims to encourage children to understand the importance of friendship and acceptance.
“It’s a sweet story about a solitary farmer called Serafín who finds himself with an unexpected guest in his home – a strange animal,” Ms Novik-Khamis, 36, who has been living in Bahrain for more than 14 years, told the GDN.
“Serafín attempts to get the creature out of his house, but soon realises that he can’t.”
Instead, he then decides to welcome the new animal into his life and become best friends.
Kindness
“The story is meant to teach children the valuable lessons of openness, kindness and embracing differences,” explained Ms Novik-Khamis, adding that by showing how Serafín initially tried to reject the strange animal and eventually learned to love and accept it, children who read the book are able to see the power of compassion and inclusivity.
From a young age, Ms Novik-Khamis, who hails from Russia, has expressed herself through the visual art and storytelling. The combination of drawing and reading, she said, has always been a source of joy for her and has allowed her to communicate with others in a creative way.
Meanwhile, Ms Corral explained that with each book she launches, she aims to connect with the audience.
“Each children’s book I write is a way to connect with one of the most demanding audiences, which is children, in my opinion,” said the 55-year-old who has lived in Bahrain on and off for the past four years.
Her work aims to capture the most human and sincere aspects of society. Originally from Spain, the free-spirited writer and artist began her literary career in Mexico City in 2008 and has since written a variety of books including historical novels, plays, short stories and youth novels.
“This book is very special to me and I thank God that I was able to share such a special experience with Ms Novik-Khamis,” she added.
When speaking about the text of the book, she said the text was perfected ‘on its own’.
“I am one of those writers who thinks that once you have the characters defined, they are the ones who build the plot,” she said.
It was a blossoming friendship and the love of art that planted the seed that would become Serafín and an Alligator in the Pantry.
“Our friendship started after Ms Corral attended an art lesson at my studio, leading us to collaborate on the book,” said Ms Novik-Khamis, adding that the project was a ‘natural fit’ for the two ‘like-minded’ people who draw inspiration from each other’s company.
When speaking about the illustration process, Ms Novik-Khamis said watercolours, pencil and digital were used to perfect her illustrations, which took four months to complete.
“A fantastic children’s book is one where the illustrations and text complement each other perfectly, enhancing the overall story.
“The image should not simply mimic the words, but instead, add depth and meaning to the narrative.”
Ms Novik-Khamis is planning to release her fourth book, a children’s book inspired by the amazing story of Belka and Strelka, two Russian dogs who venture into space.
julia@gdnmedia.bh
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