The Modern College of Business and Science (MCBS), in collaboration with DarArab for Publishing and Translation, recently participated in an engaging literature session titled “The Halva-Maker in Conversation.” DarArab, a UK- and Oman-based independent publisher dedicated to translating contemporary Arabic literature and building bridges of cultural understanding, partnered with MCBS to create a platform for discussing the significance of historical novels and their translations in the modern literary landscape.
The session featured Professor Roger Allen, one of the most esteemed translators of Arabic literature into English, known for his translation of The Halva-Maker and numerous other acclaimed works. He was joined by award-winning author Dr. Reem Bassiouney, whose novel The Halva-Maker has been widely praised for its deep exploration of cultural identity, power, and resilience. The event was skillfully moderated by Ms. Arwa Al Hinai, Deputy Head of the Department of General Education at MCBS, adding further depth and insight to the discussion.
The session was enriched by the presence of the two guests: Professor Roger Allen, a leading scholar and translator, who has played a pivotal role in bringing Arabic literature to global audiences, most notably with his translations of Nobel laureate Naguib Mahfouz, and Dr. Bassiouney, an esteemed Egyptian author and sociolinguist, recognized for her ability to weave historical themes into contemporary narratives. Her literary contributions have earned her multiple awards, including the recent Sheikh Zayed Book Award.
This collaboration aimed to foster intellectual dialogue on the significance of historical novels, such as The Halva-Maker, in preserving cultural heritage while remaining relevant to modern readers. The event explored how these literary works serve as bridges between the past and present, offering readers a window into historical narratives. Additionally, it emphasized the critical role of literary translation in facilitating cross-cultural exchange, highlighting how translations promote mutual understanding between the East and West, breaking down barriers and encouraging deeper appreciation of diverse literary traditions.
“DarArab’s collaboration with MCBS creates a unique opportunity to explore the literary and cultural value of historical fiction and its place in today’s world. We are proud to have participated in a highly important discussion with two prominent literary figures in the field,” said Dr. Moosa Al Kindi, Dean of MCBS. “This event reflects MCBS’s commitment to broadening its academic scope beyond the sciences and creating a platform for cross-cultural engagement.”
