The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair is underway in the capital.
Expected to draw more than 1,000 publishers and more than 80 authors from all over the globe, the month of May sees the gathering of the UAE’s and regional’s finest literary minds with the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair.
To mark the occasion Team Yalla’s Derek Issacs, Clive Primrose of The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi and writher and illustrator, Maitha Al Khayat, tell us what authors inspire them and what novel they are currently enjoying.
DEREK ISSACS; Editor of Yalla – Abu Dhabi Life
What are you currently reading?
Where I’m Calling From: Selected Stories by Raymond Carver. A collection of 37 stories that provide a superb overview of Carver’s life work.
Where is your favourite place to read a book in Abu Dhabi?
I’m easily distracted so busy cafes are very much a no, no. That said, The Third Place Café has many quiet corners to while away an afternoon of reading. Other than that, a deserted beach perhaps or a secluded spot in a park under the shade of a tree would be ideal.
Who is your favourite author?
I often say I don’t ‘do’ favourites, but Raymond Carver is up with those I love, along with Virginia Woolf. Back to Raymond Carver, I only discovered him about five years ago. I died and went to heaven. Readable and realistic, his minimalistic style conveys so much. Fleeting moments of people’s lives are revealed in the same way that the camera in the music video of Protection by Massive Attack peers into different rooms in an apartment block. You’re not always quite sure what’s being revealed, but it surrenders an uneasy feeling that stays with you. Genius!
MAITHA AL KHAYAT; Writer & Illustrator
What are you currently reading?
I’m one of those people who read two books but at different times; Arabic and English. I’m currently reading in English The Midnight Library by Matt Haig. The other book is called the The Threesome of the letter D, a historical fiction Arabic novel by Nadia Al Najar. It’s very interesting because you get the chance to enjoy a story set back in history in the early sixties before the UAE was founded.
Where is your favourite place to read a book in Abu Dhabi?
I’m not based in Abu Dhabi, but I do come regularly since I’m a children’s author and illustrator; conducting many readings and workshops for schools and public libraries. Whether I’m in Ras Al Khaimah, where I’m based, or visiting Abu Dhabi, my favourite place to go either to read, draw or write, is The Coffee Club.
Who is your favourite author?
I have a lot of favourite authors. For authors who write for Arabic children it would have to be Samar Mahfouz Barraj. For English authors, Chris Haughton and JK Rowling. Adult authors in Arabic, I like Noura Al Noman and in English, Colleen Hoover and Nicola Yoon.
CLIVE PRIMROSE; Director of Marketing and Audience Engagement at The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi
What are you currently reading?
The Midnight Library by Matt Haig. It’s a great modern novel about a life well lived.
Where is your favourite place to read a book in Abu Dhabi?
Audio books have changed my book habits. I enjoy listening to books while at the gym. It feels like I’m feeding my body and mind at the same time.
Who is your favourite author?
Stephen King, because to me, his gift with words is unparalleled. The topics, the characters and the scenes he creates are captivating and leave me thinking about life and the world for many weeks after finishing a book.
