TEHRAN -- French-Iranian children’s author Claire Joubert attended a performance of The Cherry Tree, a theatrical adaptation of her book Why? Why? Why?, currently being staged at the Center for the Intellectual Development of Children and Young Adults in Tehran. 
Speaking after the performance, Joubert shared that writing about Imam Hussein (AS) had been a long-held aspiration—and one that required years of contemplation and courage.
“I had wished for a long time to write about Imam Hussein,” she said. “But it took me many years to find the courage to approach such a subject.”
The Cherry Tree, written for the stage by Sharareh Tayyār and Muhammad-Hussein Habibi, is based on Joubert’s original story and was commissioned by the Center’s Theater Department. The performance interprets Joubert’s themes through innovative theatrical techniques, using storytelling layers to bridge the historical and the emotional.
Joubert explained that as a children’s author, she was drawn to the theme of standing up to injustice—a value she sees reflected in the life and legacy of Imam Hussein (AS). “Because I write for children, I chose the theme of resisting oppression,” she said. “It’s a concept that begins with the question ‘Why?’—and that same question is central to the story of Karbala.”
In response to a question about whether the story was based on personal experience, Joubert noted: “This story wasn’t drawn from my personal life. But we all reach a point where we understand that being together matters, and that resistance to injustice can be meaningful and effective.”
Reflecting on the theatrical adaptation, Joubert praised the creative liberties taken by the writers and directors. “The performance has gone beyond the book. It’s creative and rich. Using the story-within-a-story structure has added both historical depth and narrative impact. I found it compelling.”
She also highlighted her book The Almond’s Gift, which centers on the selflessness of Imam Hussein (AS), as a suitable candidate for future stage adaptation. “That story, with its theme of sacrifice, would lend itself beautifully to performance.”
Joubert emphasized the role of literature in shaping children’s understanding of the world. “Children’s literature can foster deep thinking in young readers. But books alone aren’t enough. Programs like storytelling sessions, reading promotion, and theater performances also play a vital role.”
Several of Joubert’s other books—including The Little Mouse’s Prayer, Goodbye, Old Raccoon, and God’s Cookies—have previously been adapted by the Center’s Theater Department, drawing wide audiences of children and families.
The Cherry Tree is now being performed daily at 5:00 PM at the Theater Center of the Institute for the Intellectual Development of Children and Young Adults, located in Laleh Park, Tehran.