Sharjah Ruler Sheikh Dr Sultan launches his 219th book, written in five days

Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, the ruler of Sharjah, unveiled his 219th book at the Sharjah International Book Fair. The historical novel, named Al Julanda Khalid bin Sultan Al Qasimi, was written in just five days and took half a day to print. The story follows the life of Sheikh Khalid bin Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi, a 19th-century figure who navigated across the Arabian Gulf.

The novel, published by Al Qasimi Publications, covers 38 years of Sheikh Khalid's life, including his removal from power, sea journeys, imprisonment, and attempts to reunite with a childhood love. Sheikh Dr Sultan explained that shorter novels like this one allow readers to engage with history without demanding too much of their time.

He described historical fiction as a way to bring documented events to life through storytelling. The novel features episodes of Sheikh Khalid rescuing a stranger from drowning and his enduring love for Amina bint Sheikh Abdullah bin Mohsen Al Zain, who passed away before their marriage could take place. The name Al Julanda, given to Sheikh Khalid by his father's wife, is associated with ancient rulers of Oman and reflects the family's Omani heritage.

The Sharjah Ruler emphasized the importance of consulting original manuscripts and historical documents, having spent 54 years pursuing historical and literary research.