Ruth Kiernan’s Bookworm has nurtured young readers and a love of books for nearly three decades. As World Book Day approaches, Yalla celebrates the UAE’s only children’s bookshop and its enduring impact
Walking into the Bookworm, shelves brim with bright books, puzzles and toys creating a world of imagination. But beyond the books, there is something even more special—a sense of belonging.
“The buzzword for Bookworm is ‘community,’” says co-founder Ruth Kiernan. “We’ve always strived to be part of it—through book fairs, schools, and the families who visit us regularly.”
A bookshop born at home
The Bookworm’s journey began in humble surroundings. Nearly 30 years ago, Ruth’s business partner, Simon Cory-Wright, spotted an advert for a Foyles Educational Children’s Books franchise.
“He had a ‘proper job’ at the time,” Ruth laughs. “But we both thought it was a brilliant idea. So we started with a few boxes of books stored in my home—piles of geography books in one child’s bedroom, science books in another. My floors became a sea of books!”
From there, the Bookworm grew organically, fuelled by Dubai’s expanding school network and an increasing demand for quality children’s literature. They started curating school libraries and working with teachers to tailor collections.
Today, with locations in Jumeirah and Meadows—it’s a cornerstone of Dubai’s literary landscape.
“Back then, there were so few bookshops, so it’s heartwarming to see parents – Emirati and expat – who grew up with us now bringing their children to visit. They fondly remember the original shop and our book fairs.”
Keeping the magic of books alive
In a tech world, the Bookworm remains dedicated to fostering a love of books. “Children here still get excited about books,” Ruth says. “At our book fairs, you hear them gasp when they see the rows of titles. That joy of choosing a book never gets old.”
Yet, reading habits have evolved, with graphic novels surging in popularity. “Books like Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Tom Gates and Cleopatra in Space fly off the shelves,” Ruth notes. “Some parents worry their children aren’t reading ‘classics,’ but today’s fiction still inspires imagination and curiosity.”
She recalls a mother at a book fair who was reluctant to let her child choose a graphic novel. The next day, she returned utterly surprised: “My son came down for breakfast and started reading aloud. He’s never done that before. This is amazing!”
Ruth smiles. “The joy of reading comes in many forms. If a book excites a child, it’s right for them. If you love books, you can be anyone, go anywhere.”
