The French publisher Gallimard has made its return to the Algiers International Book Fair, which opened to the public on October 29. The publisher had been absent from the event for two consecutive years, 2024 and 2025, following controversy surrounding Kamel Daoud's novel "Houris". The book, which won the prestigious Goncourt Prize in 2024, remains banned in Algeria and is the subject of ongoing judicial proceedings.
The controversy surrounding "Houris" centers on allegations by an Algerian woman, Saada Arbane, who claims that Daoud used her personal story without her consent. Daoud has denied these allegations, stating that his novel is not based on Arbane's life. The novel tells the story of a young mute woman who has her throat cut by an Islamist on December 31, 1999.
The judicial proceedings against Daoud and his wife, Aïcha Dahdouh, are ongoing. Dahdouh, who is accused of breaching medical confidentiality, has denied any wrongdoing. The Oran court was set to deliver its verdict on the case, but has postponed its decision to a later date. Dahdouh has also distanced herself from her husband's views on several key issues, including Algeria, Islam, and Palestine.
Kamel Daoud, who lives in France, has been critical of the Algerian government and has faced backlash for his writing. He was sentenced to three years in prison in absentia for addressing the country's civil war in his novel. Daoud is also the subject of two international arrest warrants issued by Algeria.
The Algiers International Book Fair is a major cultural event in Algeria, and Gallimard's return is seen as a significant development. The fair's organizers did not provide a reason for Gallimard's reinstatement, but the publisher's participation is expected to generate significant interest.
Gallimard's return to the book fair is also notable given the ongoing tensions between France and Algeria. The two countries have had a complex relationship in recent years, with issues such as colonialism, immigration, and human rights contributing to the tensions.
The book fair, which opened on October 29, features a range of Algerian and international authors, publishers, and literary figures. The event is expected to attract thousands of visitors and provide a platform for discussions on literature, culture, and politics.
Key points
- Gallimard's return to the Algiers book fair marks a significant development in the country's cultural landscape.
- The controversy surrounding Kamel Daoud's novel "Houris" continues to be a source of tension in Algeria.
- The Algiers International Book Fair provides a platform for discussions on literature, culture, and politics in Algeria.
