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Welcome to Bookstorm
BOOKSTORM is empowering Nigerian storytellers and illustrators to enrich amd revolutionise the children's literature sectors.
Partners
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How It Started
BOOKSTORM was launched by the Book Buzz Foundation (also known as IBBY Nigeria) in 2023. This Nigeria‑led effort was officially introduced at the Bologna Children’s Book Fair in 2024 by writer and cultural activist Lola Shoneyin. The main goal of BOOKSTORM is to transform Nigeria's children’s book ecosystem.
At BookStorm, we are nurturing the next generation of writers and illustrators through comprehensive training with experienced tutors to ensure that Nigerians produce high quality, culturally relevant content that children find delightful.
Bookstormers Going Places
In partnership with the Bologna Children's Book Fair and Mimaster Illustrazione Milan, Bookstorm organised a 10-week illustrations course attended by 16 Nigerian artists. The course involved building a portfolio which entailed students producing illustrations for a story titled Zizah is Different--a book that which provides young readers with insight into the life of a neurodivergent Nigerian boy and his family.
At the end of the course, the tutors selected the illustrators who made the most progress and invited them to showcase their work at the Bologna Children's Book Fair.
In April 2025, Kayode R Onimole and Barbara Chiamaka Chukwu flew to Italy to participate in the biggest children's book fair in the world.
What Bookstormers Say
“The Bookstorm course opened my eyes to visual artistry. I expanded my creative box, exploring colour palette, gained fresh perspectives on visual storytelling.”
- Victoria Ojo Ilemobayo
What Bookstormers Say
“The weeks on the Bookstorm course taught me the art of storytelling, making mood boards, creating illustrations. I have found something new I would love to pursue.”
- Aisha Yeshau
What Bookstormers Say
“The Illustrations course opened my eyes to the world of illustrations, allowing me to glimpse where I can take my works and imagination without limit or fear of perfection and failure.”
- Adulphina Imuede
What Bookstormers Say
“The Bookstorm Illustrations course was an intense but rewarding mix of lectures, presentations, and assignments. I have learned life-long lessons that will guide me on this path.”
- Akumbu Uche
Need Training?
The first of its kind on the African continent, LIFI is dedicated to the artistic development of 45 Nigerian artists and illustrators who are looking to work in the children's illustrations space. The festival will take place on 18-20 September 2025 in Lagos, Nigeria.
Nine international illustrators will facilitate workshops, panel discussions, live drawing and portfolio clinics.
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