The Abu al-Qasim al-Shabi Award for Arabic Literature, in its 32nd edition, has revealed its longlist of 21 works, all of which are short stories. The award, which is dedicated to the art of short story writing, features authors from various countries including Tunisia, Egypt, Algeria, Morocco, Iraq, and Qatar. The selection process involved a committee that evaluated and deliberated on the submissions at the Abu al-Qasim al-Shabi Club.
The longlist includes works such as "Ya'bur al-Zaman 'ala Daraja" by Hussein Mansour from Egypt, "Sayatishi al-Shams ila Nawfidhati" by Salih al-Dams from Tunisia, and "Yahduth li-Asbab 'Atifiyya" by Muhammad Ja'far from Algeria. Other notable works include "Tafasil Jamila" by Mu'az N'aija from Tunisia, "Khud'at Hemingway" by Ahmad Majdi Hamam from Egypt, and "Masafa Taslah lil-Khiyana" by Nahi al-Shadhli from Egypt.
A total of 21 works have been shortlisted, showcasing diverse narrative experiences. The works are from authors including Tarek Al-Lamoushi, Yas Al-Sayyedi, Iman Al-Safi, and many others. The list also features authors from Qatar, such as Huda Al-Naimi, who submitted "Kulayla wa-Huda". The selection committee evaluated the works based on their literary merit and contribution to the art of short story writing.
The next stage of the evaluation process will involve selecting the shortlisted works that will proceed to the next round. The winner of the Abu al-Qasim al-Shabi Award for Arabic Literature will be announced at a later date. The award is considered a prestigious recognition of literary excellence in the Arab world.
The Abu al-Qasim al-Shabi Award for Arabic Literature is presented annually by the Tunisian Bank. The award aims to promote and celebrate outstanding literary works in the Arab world. This year's edition, dedicated to short story writing, has attracted a significant number of submissions from authors across the region.
The announcement of the longlist coincides with other cultural events in Tunisia, including the International Cultural Festival of Desert Theater in Algeria and the National Exhibition of Tunisian Book. These events highlight the rich cultural landscape of Tunisia and the Arab world, showcasing the diversity and talent of authors, writers, and artists.
Key points
- The Abu al-Qasim al-Shabi Award for Arabic Literature has shortlisted 21 works for its 2026 edition, dedicated to the art of short story writing.
- The shortlisted works are from authors across Tunisia, Egypt, Algeria, Morocco, Iraq, and Qatar.
- The next stage of the evaluation process will involve selecting the shortlisted works that will proceed to the next round.
