Belize Strengthens Regional Role in Children’s Literature Through Central American Conference

Belize is expanding its role in children’s literature across Central America after taking part in a regional conference on children’s books and reading, held recently in Guatemala City. The three-day event brought together ninety-five publishers, writers, illustrators, and other creative professionals from across the region to discuss ways to encourage reading among children, share ideas, and strengthen cooperation between Central American countries. This was Belize’s second time participating in the conference, highlighting the country’s growing presence in the regional publishing industry. The Belize delegation included representatives from Cubola Publishers, Imagination Factri, and the National Kriol Council. During the conference, they shared Belize’s work in publishing children’s books, supporting creativity, and preserving the Kriol language through the publication of the Kriol Dikshineri. Belize also gained regional recognition after its publishing sector was included in a new Central American directory of publishers. Last year, Belizean illustrators were also featured in a regional directory showcasing artistic talent from across the region. Organizers say the conference helped strengthen partnerships among writers and publishers while promoting quality children’s literature and a stronger culture of reading throughout Central America.