Inside Sharjah International Book Fair, from rare manuscripts to literary blind dates
A staple of the emirate’s cultural calendar for almost half a century, Sharjah International Book Fair isn’t an event that trades on novelty. The fair has grown significantly since it was established in 1982, but for the most part, visitors know what to expect when making their way to Expo Centre Sharjah. As the event opens for its 45th year, running until November 15, the venue is once again…
The Sharjah International Book Fair has been a cultural highlight in the emirate for nearly five decades, having expanded since its inception in 1982. As the 45th edition of the event kicks off until November 15, visitors are greeted with the familiar orange banners adorning the sprawling Expo Centre Sharjah. The venue is filled with book stands, publishers' booths, and spaces for talks, panel discussions, and workshops.
For those who appreciate consistency, the fair is akin to visiting a favorite restaurant or discovering a new release by a beloved author. However, the fair also offers some surprises. This year, Peru has made its debut at the event, showcasing a collection of Arabic translations of novels by Mario Vargas Llosa, cookbooks with Peruvian recipes, and children's books about Peru's heritage.
Alberto Farje, Peru's ambassador to the UAE, notes that the country is considering increasing its participation in future editions. The display also includes a ceramic vessel resembling a mythological killer whale, crafted by the Nasca culture of Peru, between 100 BC and AD 800.
Universities from around the world are also represented at the fair. The UAE University booth displays a dozen manuscripts from its collection, encompassing 18th-century medicinal texts, 16th-century archaeological notes, and various copies of the Quran adorned with gold-leaf designs. The University is also showcasing a selection of its own publications, such as an atlas of minerals and rocks from the UAE, and specialized books on law.
Abdulrahman Al Kindi, an attendant at the stall, explains the university's diverse offerings, which range from medicine to law to religious topics. In a nod to Oman's guest of honor status this year, the fair features displays on the nation's intangible cultural heritage, including the khanjar dagger, horse and camel abdhah shows, and the Al Azi poetic performing art.
Manuscripts from Omani physician Rashid bin Umayra Al Rustaqi, as well as the oldest surviving Omani manuscript dating back to 1137, are also on display.
The global publisher scene is well-represented, with stalls offering new titles, from translations of classic authors like Voltaire and Clarice Lispector to children's books. The UAE Board on Books for Young People also has a significant presence, showcasing the titles shortlisted for the International Award for Arabic Children's Literature.
This year's finalists span several categories and age groups, including early readers and non-fiction, with the winners to be announced during the event. For those who prefer a spontaneous literary selection, the Sharjah-based Little Puffin Publishing House offers "Blind Date with a Book," a collection of books wrapped in brown paper with no cover art or title visible.
Patrons can choose a book based on fiction or non-fiction preferences, as well as English or Arabic language options.
Written by urgent.news from The National UAE's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
