Paris Celebrates North African Authors

In Global Trade Talk by Olivia Snaije

By Olivia Snaije

Maghreb Des Livres

The 16th edition of Maghreb des Livres, a book festival celebrating authors from North Africa or relating to the region, is being held this weekend auspiciously at the three-year old Museum of the History of Immigration in Paris.  Algeria is the country of honor this year and literary cafés will be held to discuss authors such as Aziz Chouaki or the late Kateb Yacine and Albert Camus. In addition, round table discussions and book signings by 120 writers including Mahi Binebine, Abdellatif Laabi, Boualem Sansal, Leila Marouane, and Benjamin Stora will be take place. A vast selection of books published in 2009 will be available — from novels, political or historical works to graphic novels and coffee table books in Arabic, French and Tamazight (a Berber language).  There will also be Arabic calligraphy sessions; video screenings, a youth section and a Moorish café open all weekend.

The association Coup de Soleil, which promotes information and culture related to the Maghreb region with an emphasis on North African integration in France, organizes the festival.

The Festival runs from February 6, 2010 from 11 am to 9pm and February 7, 2010 from 10 am to 8pm. For more information see: www.coupdesoleil.net

About the Author

Olivia Snaije

Olivia Snaije is a journalist and editor based in Paris who writes about translation, literature, graphic novels, the Middle East, and multiculturalism. She is the author of three books and has contributed to newspapers and magazines including The Guardian, The Global Post, and The New York Times.