The Arabic research seminar. Tetz Rooke was one of five on the panel that named the winner of the International Prize for Arabic Fiction 2023. Here he gives an insight into how the process went. All interested are welcome!
In the different literary systems of the world, literary prizes play an important role in the process of consecration of literary value; they have a big impact on canon shaping, reading choices, print runs and sales. In this seminar I will present one of the most prestigious prizes in Arabic literature today, The International Prize for Arabic Fiction (IPAF), also known as the “Arab Booker”. I will share my insights as one of the judges for the 2023 prize and give an overview of the 124 nominated novels: facts about genres, themes, styles, and the authors. Then I will highlight some of the most interesting works, according to my judgement, both on and off the longlist and shortlist, and conclude with presentation of the eventual winner: The Water Diviner by Zahran Alqasmi from Oman.