“Read with Hamdoon”: The Launch of Ajyaal’s New Leveled Reading Program

In celebration of National Day, and in support of strengthening national identity through children’s literature, Ajyaal launches the first phase of its leveled reading program with the “Read with Hamdoon” series.

This collection reintroduces one of the most iconic characters that shaped the childhood of an entire generation, now presented in a new format that meets the needs of today’s young readers.

The series is part of Level 4 of the Ajyaal Reading Scale, marking a significant step toward building a comprehensive, structured reading framework with clear and progressive levels.

The First Three Titles

The launch begins with three stories that form an inviting entry point into the world of Hamdoon and his sister Hamda:

• “When Grandpa Decided to Punish Me, So We Traveled”A story that highlights a child’s deep attachment to his grandfather and how this emotion leads to an unexpected decision that transforms an entire summer.

• “My First Day at Grandpa’s House”A day filled with unforeseen moments, all sparked by Hamdoon’s earnest—yet often chaotic—attempts to be helpful.

• “Marhaba Al Saa’ ”A visit to the ezba where Hamdoon discovers a new environment, learns traditional etiquette and values (alsana’), and experiences a blend of real-life situations and childhood imagination.

  
  

From Television to Books

The “Read with Hamdoon” series is adapted from the animated show Hamdoon, which aired more than ten years ago and was widely appreciated by parents and educators. The books are created and illustrated by Dr. Abdulla Alsharhan, the original creator of the series.

Dr. Alsharhan notes:

“Bringing Hamdoon back to books is a step toward offering young readers inspiring stories rooted in the authenticity of their culture and environment.”

Fifteen Titles… and More to Come

The first phase includes fifteen titles under a single reading level.Future phases will expand across additional levels, ensuring that the series accompanies children throughout their reading development—from early beginnings to confident independent reading.

The Purpose of the Series

Launching the series on a national occasion underscores the important role cultural content plays in shaping identity.Through this initiative, Ajyaal aims to provide children with daily stories that enrich their reading experiences and strengthen the presence of Emirati literature in home and school libraries.

“Read with Hamdoon” marks a new milestone in delivering high-quality Arabic content built on clarity, structure, and a child-centered learning approach.