Sharjah: The Sharjah-based Kalimat Publishing House has announced that the recently published novel Faten, written by award-winning author Fatima Sharaf Al Deen, has been named ‘Best Book' at the 54th Arab Beirut Book Fair.
Faten is Fatima's first young adult novel that traces the metamorphosis of the young and hardworking central protagonist Faten from an immature inward-looking young teenager to an outward-looking mature adult who works tirelessly to improve her position in life.
The announcement was made on the first day of the book fair — the oldest and most prestigious event of its kind in the Arab region. The event, which opened on Friday, is being held at the Beirut International Exhibition and Leisure Centre and will conclude on December 16.
Author accepts award
Fatima received the award on behalf of Kalimat. Shaikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, founder and CEO of Kalimat, will be visiting the book fair at the weekend to check on Kalimat's stand and to participate in celebrations to mark the honour for the book.
Shaikha Bodour said: "The Beirut Book Fair is a very prestigious international event, and the longest-running one in the region, making this award a particularly great honour. Fatima Sharaf Al Deen is an extremely talented author, and we are delighted to have someone who clearly cares so much about Arabic children's literature working with us at Kalimat."
Fatima has written and published more than 45 books, mainly for children.
