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.”
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A passion for reading
Ruth’s love of literacy runs deep. “As a child, I’d take myself to the library and get lost in stories.” When her own family were young, she recalls a rule she set for her children: “If a film was coming out based on a book, they had to read it first. I wanted them to imagine it before seeing someone else’s version on screen.”
She’s also a big advocate for reading aloud. “I read to my children well into their tweens. It builds vocabulary, strengthens comprehension, and, most importantly, creates wonderful, shared memories. I love it when families look through the books together.”
Supporting young readers and writers
From curating school libraries to hosting author visits and book fairs, Ruth and her team ensure books reach every child. “Twice a year, we do a big book giveaway for World Book Day and Roald Dahl Day – children can pick a book for free. It’s a small way of giving back.”
Despite challenges from online retailers, Bookworm’s customers appreciate the unique experience of an independent shop. “It’s more than just buying a book—the recommendations, the conversations, the discovery. We support local authors, boutique publishers, and initiatives like the Young Author Academy in ways an algorithm never could.”
So, what’s next? “It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of families’ reading journeys. As long as we can do that, I’ll be happy.”
As we celebrate all things literature, Ruth’s message is simple: “Support your local community. Read with your children. And remember—there’s nothing like a book.”
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