The House of Wisdom

Al Qasimi’s latest work takes readers on a journey through the history of the House of Wisdom also known as the Grand Library of Baghdad, an iconic institution established by Caliph Harun Al-Rashid during the Islamic Golden Age, and its lasting impact on the world of knowledge before its eventual destruction by Hulagu Khan, leader of the Mongol Empire. 

This engaging narrative, illustrated by Majid Zakeri, emphasises knowledge's pivotal role in shaping societies, highlighting its power to build futures. The book encourages young readers to think critically, explore scientific concepts, and recognise their potential to contribute to the advancement of humanity.

The House of Wisdom is the winner of the Fiction category of the 2025 BolognaRagazzi Awards of the Bologna Children's Book Fair. The Bologna Children's Book Fair (BCBF) is widely considered as the most important trade event in the children's book industry. The BolognaRagazzi Awards highlight the most beautiful and innovative picture books published worldwide in the recent two years, judged by a distinguished international panel. The BRAW Amazing Bookshelf is a special exhibition at BCBF showcasing a small number of outstanding picture books submitted for the BolognaRagazzi Awards.

"This book won over the hearts and gaze of the jury for the power of its creativity and the overall excellence of its production. The historical events of the destruction of the celebrated Baghdad Library – one of the largest intercultural institutions of all times, in a city that was a centre for the exchange of ideas, the art of translation and the celebration of cultures and languages – are brought to life again in these intense pages like a timeless force. The text is characterised by an elegant and confident literary style in perfect harmony with the stunning iconography that recalls the ancient Islamic miniatures reimagined in a modern context using limited yet powerful colour combinations, with the black and green standing out in particular. The book contains memorable images, like that of the river that turns black, dyed by the ink from the books that have been thrown into its waters. The work appears today as both a warning and a tribute to the importance of books and literature, to dialogue and the peaceful cohabitation between cultures, a universal plea that resonates like a keepsake and that requires protection, resistance and care for the treasures of humanity and culture as a whole."

Reflecting on the award, Sheikha Bodour said, “The House of Wisdom invites readers on a profound journey into the heart of Arab and Islamic civilisation, shining a light on a rich legacy that continues to inspire and guide future generations. Through this book, we aim to celebrate the intellectual achievements of Arabs and Muslims, whose contributions laid the foundation for a global renaissance.”