@ Vikash Sharma | Sr Journalist
New Delhi: As the National Book Fair (NBF), Delhi continues to draw thousands of readers, educators, parents and children from across the country, the Children’s Book Trust (CBT) stall stands out as a vibrant hub of storytelling, learning and joyful engagement. With nearly five decades of uninterrupted participation at the National Book Fair, CBT once again reaffirms its enduring belief in the power of books in shaping young minds—despite, and alongside, rapid technological change.
Speaking on CBT’s long association with the Fair, Navin Menon, Editor – Publications, Children’s Book Trust, said, “We have been participating in the NBF for nearly five decades, and seeing the crowd grow every year reaffirms our belief that books and reading have, and always will, sustain all advances in technology. While it is wonderful to see the many activities designed to draw engagement, the enthusiasm of children moving from one stall to another proves that it is truly the magic of books that continues to inspire them.”
At this year’s Fair, CBT is showcasing a wide range of thoughtfully curated children’s books that combine simple language, realistic themes, creative illustrations and affordable pricing—core principles the Trust has upheld since its inception. New titles on display reflect contemporary concerns and evolving realities faced by children today. These include books addressing the dangers of online chatting for children, the mindless use of drugs for weight loss, the impact of human invasion on the environment, and stories that explore social and emotional wellbeing.
True to its unique publishing philosophy, CBT acquires manuscripts through its well-known Competition for Writers of Children’s Books, organised periodically to encourage fresh voices and diverse storytelling. Each edition introduces new themes and subjects, ensuring variety, relevance and innovation in children’s literature.
Beyond books, CBT’s stall is also engaging young readers through interactive initiatives that reinforce the joy of reading. Printed cards featuring scenes and characters from CBT books are distributed free of cost to children. Young readers are encouraged to identify these from books they have read, colour them, and return them—earning encouragement prizes in the form of more books. This initiative underlines CBT’s belief that books and engagement go hand in hand, without resorting to sales gimmicks.
About Children’s Book Trust
A pioneer in children’s publishing in India, Children’s Book Trust is now in its 69th year. With around 2,000 titles in English, Hindi and select regional languages, CBT has played a pivotal role in shaping generations of readers. Its catalogue spans playful animal fantasies, folktales, realistic fiction, science and popular science, biographies, social issues, and stories promoting empathy, kindness, inclusion and cultural awareness. Many CBT titles have been part of national education initiatives such as Operation Blackboard and Sarva Shiksha Abhiyaan.
CBT also publishes Children’s World, one of the oldest illustrated English magazines for children, now in its 57th year, providing a creative platform for young readers and aspiring writers.
At the National Book Fair, CBT continues its mission—to make quality children’s literature accessible, engaging and meaningful for every child.
___________________________________________________
