Nawal Halawa

Nawal Halawa grew up in pre-Nakba Jaffa herself, just like her character Sitt Zubaida. She was one of the first female journalists in the Middle East covering regional politics in the 1970s and 1980s. Halawa was inspired to write this story when she visited her hometown for the first time after more than 40 years, wanting to immortalize the memories that flooded her at every street corner and landmark. Much of Sitt Zubaida's story comes from the author's own childhood memories. The character is...See more

Nawal Halawa grew up in pre-Nakba Jaffa herself, just like her character Sitt Zubaida. She was one of the first female journalists in the Middle East covering regional politics in the 1970s and 1980s. Halawa was inspired to write this story when she visited her hometown for the first time after more than 40 years, wanting to immortalize the memories that flooded her at every street corner and landmark. Much of Sitt Zubaida's story comes from the author's own childhood memories. The character is based on the author's experiences and enriched by her mother's memories and interviews with other Palestinians who experienced the Nakba. With this book, Halawa hopes that readers will gain an appreciation of the humanity of Palestinians, their rich and loving familial connections, and their hopes and dreams. Nawal Halawa has published five books in Arabic, including the story of Sitt Zubaida in 2014, which received the bestseller award at the Sharjah, Cairo, and Amman international book fair. Halawa founded Arab Cultural House in Montreal, which aims to promote Arabic culture through community engagement and activities. See less