Free To (Word)Play: Egyptian Writers Find A Second Home In English

Is truth really stranger than fiction?

Not if the magic of literature is unleashed, as Rowayat proves. Launched this January 25, the pioneering English-language journal gathers established and emerging writers to paint a literary landscape of today’s Egypt.

“Fiction is where freedom exists in its purest form. You can’t understand Egypt or Egyptians from newspaper headlines, but you can come into their homes and hearts through their writers“, says its founder Sherine Elbanhawy.

The journal, whose second issue will come out this June, not only showcases the poems of award-winning authors and the fresh voices of emerging writers, but also has a special hook: a student fiction competition in each issue.

“Rowayat wants to be a stepping-stone for new writers to be noticed, get awards, and be offered publishing contracts. We aim to cross boundaries and unite past, present and future writers emerging and resurrecting from Egypt”, she says.

For more information – Rowayat