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.
areas for plants
community members
eco gardens
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.
Illustrators trained
Illustrations festival organised
Children's books projects completed
International Collaborations
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.
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
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
Akumbu Uche
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
OUR ACTIVITIES
Nigeria Picture Book Project
We’re thrilled to announce a groundbreaking collaboration between Book Buzz Foundations and the European Union, a partnership that is igniting the next generation of Nigerian storytellers and illustrators!
Past Projects
With Bookstorm, the plan is to disrupt a children's picture book sector that is underperforming. The only way we can achieve this is by seeing the eco-system as a whole, and understanding that all the parts must work.
OUR PARTNERS
