In a Fertile Desert: Modern Writing from the United Arab Emi

Name: In a Fertile Desert: Modern Writing from the United Arab Emi
SKU: 9789774162183
Availability: InStock

EGP200.00

Here, for the first time, is a volume of short stories from this commercially and culturally vital and vibrant center of the Arab world. Life before oil in this region was harsh, and many of the stories in this collection—by both men and women from all corners of the country—tell of those times and the almost unbelievable changes that have come about in the space of two generations. Some tell of the struggles faced in the early days, while others bring the immediate past and the present together, revealing that the past, with all its difficulties and dangers, nonetheless possesses a certain nostalgia.
Contributors: Abdul Hamid Ahmed, Roda al-Baluchi, Hareb al-Dhaheri, Nasser Al-Dhaheri, Maryam Jumaa Faraj, Jumaa al-Fairuz, Nasser Jubran, Saleh Karama, Lamees Faris al-Marzuqi, Mohamed al-Mazroui, Ebtisam Abdullah Al-Mu’alla, Ibrahim Mubarak, Mohamed al-Murr, Sheikha al-Nakhy, Mariam Al Saedi, Omniyat Salem, Salma Matar Seif, Ali Abdul Aziz al-Sharhan, Muhsin Soleiman, ‘A’ishaa al-Za‘aby.

SKU: 9789774162183 Categories: Books, E Arabic Literature in Translation, English Books, Literature &Fiction Author: Denys Johnson-Davies

REFUND AND RETURN POLICY

In a Fertile Desert: Modern Writing from the United Arab Emi

In a Fertile Desert: Modern Writing from the United Arab Emi Book Description

In a Fertile Desert: Modern Writing from the United Arab Emi is a captivating collection of English short stories available at Kalimat Bookstore Online. The anthology brings together voices from a region that transformed dramatically after the discovery of oil. Readers will explore life before oil, when the desert was harsh and survival was a daily battle. Meanwhile, contemporary writers show how a single generation can reshape culture, economy, and identity.

Inside this volume, both men and women from every corner of the United Arab Emirates share personal memories and imagined tales. The stories capture the stark contrast between early hardships and the rapid modernisation that followed. Furthermore, each narrative weaves nostalgia with hope, reminding us that the past still shapes today’s dreams. Because the contributors write with honesty, the collection feels both intimate and universal.

Among the storytellers are Abdul Hamid Ahmed, Roda al‑Baluchi, Hareb al‑Dhaheri, and many others who represent a broad spectrum of Emirati experiences. Their voices range from quiet village reflections to bustling city anecdotes. Additionally, the anthology highlights the role of women writers, whose perspectives add depth and nuance to the historical portrait. Therefore, readers gain a balanced view of a society in flux.

Fans of literary fiction will appreciate the lyrical style and vivid imagery that characterize each piece. The book invites you to travel from sand dunes to skyscrapers within a single chapter. Moreover, the varied tones—from humorous to somber—ensure an engaging reading journey. Readers can pause to reflect on how tradition and innovation coexist in a rapidly changing world.

Key Features of In a Fertile Desert: Modern Writing from the United Arab Emi

The anthology offers over thirty short stories, each written by a different Emirati author. This diverse authorship provides a mosaic of cultural insights and personal histories. Moreover, the English translation preserves the original voices while making the work accessible to a global audience.

Each story is concise, allowing readers to finish a piece in a single sitting. Consequently, the book suits busy schedules and encourages frequent revisits. Additionally, the collection includes a brief introduction that contextualises the social and economic shifts that shaped the narratives.

Another notable feature is the inclusion of both established and emerging writers. This blend showcases the evolution of modern Emirati literature and highlights new talent. Therefore, the book serves as a valuable resource for scholars, students, and casual readers alike.

Why Read This Book?

Readers will discover a unique window into a nation that moved from a desert economy to a global hub within two generations. The stories illustrate how tradition endures even as skylines rise. Furthermore, the emotional honesty of the authors fosters empathy and connection across cultures.

Because the collection emphasizes personal experience, it offers an authentic portrayal rarely found in travel guides or news articles. Meanwhile, the literary quality invites discussion and analysis, making it perfect for book clubs and classroom settings. Additionally, the book’s format encourages readers to share individual stories with friends, sparking conversation about change and identity.

Many readers find that the anthology challenges preconceived notions about the United Arab Emirates. It reveals a rich tapestry of everyday life, aspirations, and resilience. Therefore, purchasing this book means gaining both enjoyment and insight.

About This Book

For more details about In a Fertile Desert: Modern Writing from the United Arab Emi and its contributors, visit the Goodreads page. Explore our full range of English titles at Kalimat Bookstore through the English Books section. This collection promises a rewarding reading experience that bridges past and present, tradition and innovation. Enjoy the journey through a fertile desert of stories.