Arabic Lit (in Translation): Five to Look for in 2012
What’s forthcoming in translation is not nearly as well-publicized as the big English-language novels. But here are 5 to look for in 2012: The Lady from Tel Aviv, by Rabai […]
December 2011
A ‘Best of Arabic Literature (in English)’ 2011
There were more than three dozen Arabic books published in English translation this year, as well as dozens of books by authors of the Arab diaspora(s). The bulk of what […]
The Contenders: Best of Arabic Literature (in English) 2011
The list below does not include numerous books written by Arab authors in English, French, Swedish, and other languages, many of which I have read and reviewed. Books with a […]
43rd Annual Cairo International Book Fair Take 2: Postponed
UPDATE UPDATE: The news seems to be that the fair will open on the 22nd-24th, close on the 25-26, re-open on the 27th and run through the 7th of February. UPDATE: The […]
International Prize for Arabic Fiction Longlist Profiles: ‘Suitcases of Memory’
Suitcases of Memory, longlisted for the 2012 International Prize for Arabic Fiction (IPAF), is Lebanese author Sharbel Qatan (Charbel Kattan)’s debut novel. Qatan, who was born in southern Lebanon in […]
Best of Arabic Literature 2011: Not (Yet) in Translation
Since I read (Arabic) with all the speed of a blind, arthritic turtle, one wouldn’t want to rely on me for an assessment of which lit is the best of […]
London’s Mosaic Rooms Hosting ‘Major Tribute’ to Adonis
In February and March of 2012, London’s Mosaic Rooms will be hosting an exhibition of Adonis’s drawings as well as four literary events celebrating the celebrated Syrian writer’s poetry and […]
Egyptian Literature (in Translation) for Teens
A few days back, @zoraoneill (Zora O’Neill) asked me: “Any Egyptian fiction in translation you’d recommend for teens?” She was, she said, “looking for stuff to prep tourists.” It’s been […]
U.S., International Publishers Stand with Mohamed Hashem
Dar Merit’s award-winning publisher Mohamed Hashem, who was targeted earlier this week by Egypt’s military rulers, has received statements of support from across the globe. This follows the “testimonies” of […]