Following previous events at Iran’s Association of Children and Youth Book Publishers, the latest event, held on Monday, March 3, 2025, focused on discussing the global market for children’s books from various perspectives. The panel aimed to exchange experiences and identify effective solutions. It included Mr. Aliasghar Seyed Abadi (author), Ms. Hoda Hadadi (illustrator), Mr. Fatollah Foroughi (publisher), and Ms. Maryam Ronagh (literary agent). The panel was led by Mr. Seyed Ali Kashefi Khonsari.
In addition to the challenges we encounter in the global market, such as financial transactions affected by imposed sanctions, there are other factors preventing Iranian children’s books from receiving proper attention internationally. During this panel discussion, the panelists shared their perspectives on these obstacles. Combining the points they made with our experience at Saba Agency, we have categorized these obstacles as follows:
Authorship:
- There are differences in age group classifications based on literacy levels and education systems in various countries. As a result, a book may not always fit into a specific age category.
- It is essential to pair subject matter experts with authors when creating non-fiction books, particularly when discussing areas like child psychology.
- Story types such as open-ended stories and complicated philosophical concepts should generally be avoided, even though some argue that this approach aligns with Eastern writing traditions.
- It is important for children to be entertained, and incorporating themes of love and humor has become a popular trend in authorship.
Illustration:
- Iranian illustrations are highly artistic, with many illustrators striving to showcase their work in festivals or to earn awards. This may hinder the market perspective of their creations.
- Iranian illustrations often incorporate numerous Iranian cultural elements; balancing local traditions with the universal language of illustration should be kept in mind.
- Illustrators should be mindful of the impact of disfiguring objects to the point where children may not recognize them.
- Most Iranian illustrators operate without agents, which limits their access to the international market. Without agents, illustrators may encounter challenges such as language barriers and difficulties meeting project deadlines.
Publishing:
- Due to high production costs, publishers are limiting their books to an average of 24 pages, which makes it challenging to enter markets where the acceptable page count is typically above 32 pages.
- These high costs are also leading Iranian publishers to opt for softcover formats, but this choice is not well-regarded at international fairs.
Agenting:
- At Saba Agency, we strive to provide constructive feedback to our clients. However, for meaningful change to occur, it’s essential that publishers, authors, and illustrators actively listen to and act on this feedback.
- Countries are capitalizing on grant programs to translate and publish their literature, while we continue to lag behind in developing our grant initiatives.
- Events such as fellowships can significantly enhance market visibility and facilitate effective selling strategies.
- It is not advisable to publish a book solely with the intention of selling it in foreign markets. If a book performs well in its home market, it may indicate a strong potential for success internationally.
