Globus and Bereke Books released a unique book “Alippe” for the youngest readers

Every big journey starts with a small but meaningful step. This is especially true when it comes to introducing children to the Kyrgyz language and nurturing love for it. Globus has supported the release of a unique book — “Abv Alippe: oku, sez, izilde”, prepared by Bereke Books publishing house for the youngest readers in Kyrgyzstan. The release is dedicated to the State Language Day, celebrated on September 23.

The book is designed to spark curiosity and joy: thick pages perfect for little hands, stencil outlines of letters, and simple tasks turn language learning into play.

Illustrations with national flavor gently introduce children not only to familiar objects but also to images that make Kyrgyzstan truly unique.

“I believe every child deserves a beautiful, high-quality book created with love, one that reflects their culture and their country. Reading is a lifelong gift, and it starts with us, parents, reading together with our kids. Books help build imagination, thinking, and confidence — the foundation for kindness, talent, and big dreams,”says project author and Bereke Books founder, Gulnaz Asakeeva.

“Abv Alippe: oku, sez, izilde” is not only about letters and sounds — it is about the feeling of language, the first steps towards understanding and loving one’s native speech. Learning to put sounds into words, a child begins to hear the voice of family and homeland, gaining confidence and curiosity to grow.

Such books become quiet companions for parents — before bedtime, on the way to kindergarten, or around the family table.

“In today’s world, where screens often replace live interaction, it is crucial to develop imagination, thinking, and a love for reading from the earliest years. This project fills an important gap, giving young readers a high-quality, bright, and accessible tool for learning. It plays a key role in supporting both education and culture,”notes Bermet Tanabaeva, PR Manager at Umai Group.

The project was created by a team of professionals: text by Imanak Sagynbekov, PhD in Philology and writer, and Raina Asakeeva, Honored Worker of Education; illustrations by Kholant-art studio; and editing and design by a dedicated creative team.

Most of the print run will be available in Globus stores:

• Globus 1 — 53/1 Aaly Tokombaev St.

• Globus 11 — “Ala-Archa”, 299-B Chingiz Aitmatov Ave.

• Globus 13 — 150 Chui Ave.

• Globus 26 — 44/1 Mederov St.

Some copies will also be raffled among customers and employees, so that even more children can discover the Kyrgyz language and culture.

The initiative is part of “Umai Group for Children”, a social program aimed at supporting education, creativity, and holistic child development. The program brings together cultural, educational, sports, and charitable initiatives.

Umai Group is the largest retailer in Kyrgyzstan, managing four chains — Globus, SPAR, Narodny, and Dostor. Today the company operates around 150 stores and welcomes over 250,000 customers daily.