Author development in the Middle East

Book publishing in Arabic lags behind much of the world and depends extensively on translated works from other languages, according to Director Sinan Sweis of Ophir Publishing House in Jordan.

"Middle Eastern cultures are traditionally oral," he explained. "Most people do not have much formal training in writing since the educational system favors oral communication over written." Arabic-language Christian publishing in the region also faces challenges from the surrounding religious culture.

"Without training for writers and investment in publishing, Arab literature will continue to trail behind the rest of the world," Sinan said.

A first four-day workshop in Beirut, Lebanon, will involve up to 20 invited writers from various countries in the region. The workshop will target writers with previous experience. Participants will be invited to submit an original book manuscript within 12 months of the workshop. The top three manuscripts will be selected for publication.

Read more about publishing in the Middle East in this MAI inteview with Sinan Sweis.

Photo above: Sawsan Tannoury, director of Dar Manhal Al Hayat publishing house in Lebanon