The event was attended by 1,000 people, including 200 writers and poets, who were honored for their contributions to Arabic literature.
The 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair: Celebrating Literary Excellence
A Celebration of Arabic Literature
The 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair, held in the United Arab Emirates, was a grand celebration of Arabic literature and culture. The event, which took place in March 2023, was attended by 1,000 people, including 200 writers and poets who were honored for their contributions to the field. The fair was a testament to the rich literary heritage of the Arab world, showcasing the diversity and richness of Arabic literature.
Honoring Literary Excellence
The opening ceremony of the book fair included the prestigious Turjuman translation award, which recognizes outstanding literary works translated into Arabic. The award is given to authors and translators who have made significant contributions to the Arabic literary canon.
Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, greets the public, is as lavish as ever. The Grand Mosque, in the heart of Sharjah, was the venue for the grand opening ceremony. The Ruler of Sharjah, Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, was the guest of honor, and was accompanied by his wife, Sheikha Amal Al Qasimi. The ceremony, which was attended by dignitaries and prominent figures from across the region, was attended by the Vice President of the UAE, Dr. Thani bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE Minister of Culture and Knowledge, Dr. Abdulla Al Ahmed Al Kuwari, and other prominent figures from various fields. The ceremony, which began at 10:00 AM with a traditional Arabic welcome, featured a musical performance by a renowned Omani singer, and was accompanied by a spectacular display of fireworks and pyrotechnics.
The Sharjah Book Fair: A Celebration of Literature and Culture
The Sharjah Book Fair, held annually in the United Arab Emirates, is a premier literary event that brings together authors, publishers, and readers from around the world. As the largest book fair in the Middle East, it has become a significant platform for promoting literature, culture, and intellectual discourse.
A Celebration of Literature and Culture
The Sharjah Book Fair is more than just a book fair; it’s a celebration of literature and culture. The event features a diverse range of authors, poets, and writers from various countries and backgrounds, showcasing their works in multiple languages.
The award is given to outstanding translations of Arabic literature into other languages. The award is named after the 18th-century Ottoman poet and writer, Al-Mu’ayyad Al-Shirazi, who was known for his poetry and his role in the development of the Ottoman literary tradition.
The Origins of the Turjuman Award
The Turjuman award was established in 2007 by Al Qasimi, a renowned Emirati writer and translator. The award is a testament to the importance of Arabic literature and its significance in the world of literature. The name “Turjuman” is derived from the Arabic word for “the translator,” which highlights the award’s focus on recognizing outstanding translations of Arabic literature.
The Criteria for Selection
The Turjuman award is given to translations that demonstrate exceptional literary merit, accuracy, and cultural sensitivity. The selection process is rigorous, and the award is given to only a few outstanding translations each year. The criteria for selection include:
The Winners of the Turjuman Award
The Turjuman award has been given to several outstanding translations of Arabic literature into other languages.
The Turjuman Prize: A Symbol of Excellence in Arabian Horse Racing
The Turjuman prize is a prestigious award in the Arabian horse racing world, recognizing outstanding achievements in the sport. The prize is named after Turjuman, a legendary Arabian stallion known for his exceptional speed and agility.
History of the Turjuman Prize
The Turjuman prize has a rich history dating back to the 1950s.
Emirati writers are gaining international recognition for their literary works.
The Rise of Emirati Literature
The Emirati novel has experienced a significant surge in popularity over the past few decades, with several notable titles gaining international recognition. One of the most celebrated Emirati novels is “Ahd Al Jerah” (The Long Journey) by Awad bin Hasum Al Darmaki. This novel has been hailed as the best Emirati novel, and its success has paved the way for other Emirati writers to make their mark on the literary world.
The Author’s Background
Awad bin Hasum Al Darmaki is a renowned Emirati writer, born and raised in the United Arab Emirates.
The award for Best Arabic Novel was given to Issa Nasri for his novel The Mosaic, which tells the story of a young man who returns to his hometown in Iraq after years of living abroad. The novel explores themes of identity, belonging, and the complexities of cultural heritage.
The Mosaic: A Novel of Identity and Belonging
The Mosaic is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of identity, belonging, and cultural heritage. The story follows the protagonist, a young man who returns to his hometown in Iraq after years of living abroad. As he navigates his way through the familiar yet foreign landscape, he is forced to confront the contradictions and complexities of his own identity. Key themes explored in the novel include:
Through the protagonist’s journey, Issa Nasri sheds light on the intricacies of cultural identity and the challenges of navigating multiple cultural influences. The novel is a poignant exploration of the human experience, highlighting the universal themes of identity, belonging, and cultural heritage.
A Stranger in Baghdad: A Novel of Cultural Exchange
The Best International Fiction Book award went to A Stranger in Baghdad by Elizabeth Loudon. This novel tells the story of a young woman who travels to Baghdad, Iraq, and becomes embroiled in the city’s vibrant cultural scene.
Best International Publishing house to DC Books from India.