Celestial Bodies by Jokha Alharthi: A Deep Dive into Omani Society
Celestial Bodies (الأجرام السماوية) by Jokha Alharthi is a remarkable novel that won the 2019 Man Booker International Prize, making history as the first book written in Arabic to receive this prestigious award. Through its poetic narrative, the novel offers an intimate portrayal of Omani society, navigating themes of love, tradition, social change, and the impact of colonial history. About the Author: Jokha Alharthi Jokha Alharthi is an Omani writer and academic known for her contributions to contemporary Arabic literature. She has a Ph.D. in Classical Arabic Literature from the University of Edinburgh and has published novels, short stories, and children’s books. Celestial Bodies is her most internationally recognized work, translated into English by Marilyn Booth. Alharthi's writing provides a rare glimpse into Omani history and culture, exploring the evolution of societal norms, especially concerning women’s roles, freedom, and personal aspirations. Her storytelling is deeply...