Abstract
In this guest talk, we will explore the intricate and impactful ways in which Israeli and Palestinian children's literature depicts the Separation Wall, a significant and divisive symbol in the Israeli-Palestinian relations.
The talk will underscore how these literary works reflect the varied perspectives and lived experiences on either side of the Wall, engaging young readers with the multifaceted issues of freedom, identity, and justice. We will showcase specific instances where the Wall is both metaphorically and physically transcended, presenting a subversive take on the current reality and offering a cautiously hopeful vision for the future. This exploration will highlight the role of children's literature in shaping societal understanding and challenging prevailing narratives through the eyes of the young.
Bio
Loaay Wattad is a 2023-2024 EUME Postdoc Fellow at the Forum Transregionale Studien in Berlin. In his research, he focuses on socio-political themes in Palestinian and Israeli children's literature. He pursued his PhD studies at Tel Aviv University, focusing on the sociology of Palestinian children's literature. Wattad is the editor of the Hkaya journal, dedicated to Arabic children's and young adult literature and culture.
