Egyptian writer and graphic novelist Deena Mohamed will be at Northwestern Qatar for a community conversation on her novel and One Book 2025 selection, Shubeik Lubeik, on February 4, 2025. As part of the annual One Book program, the event will bring together students, faculty, and staff for a community discussion with Mohamed on the novel’s themes—ranging from ambition and agency to social justice—and its broader relevance to contemporary society.
One Book fosters intellectual and creative engagement through a shared reading experience, encouraging the community to explore literature’s role in shaping cultural and ethical perspectives. Every year, invites authors and thought leaders to engage in discussions beyond the classroom, examining the cultural, ethical, and philosophical questions raised in the selected book.
Marwan M. Kraidy, dean and CEO of Northwestern Qatar, underscored the importance of the One Book program in fostering intellectual engagement, stating, "The One Book program embodies our university's values and commitment to creating spaces for meaningful dialogue that brings our community together around shared stories. Through this initiative, we invite Northwestern Qatar community members to engage with works that provoke critical thinking and inspire reflection.”
He added, “Deena Mohamed's Shubeik Lubeik not only offers a compelling narrative, but it also provides a rich lens to examine profound social, ethical, and cultural questions that resonate globally, encouraging us to reflect on the complexities of human desires and aspirations in our contemporary world."
“Deena Mohamed's Shubeik Lubeik not only offers a compelling narrative, but it also provides a rich lens to examine profound social, ethical, and cultural questions that resonate globally, encouraging us to reflect on the complexities of human desires and aspirations in our contemporary world.”
Mohamed’s internationally acclaimed graphic novel trilogy transports readers to an alternate Cairo, where wishes are legally bought and sold. Through vivid illustrations and sharp social commentary, the book examines themes of ambition, privilege, and the ethical dilemmas of a world where desires become commodities. The novel has earned prestigious recognition, including the Warwick Prize for Women in Translation and nominations for the Eisner and Hugo Awards.
During her visit, Mohamed will discuss her creative process, the inspiration behind her novel, and how her work engages with social justice, cultural identity, and the complexities of aspiration. The event will offer students and faculty the opportunity for deeper engagement with her beyond the classroom.
Sam Meekings, associate professor and chair of the One Book committee, highlighted the significance of Mohamed’s visit, stating, "Deena Mohamed’s talk presents an exceptional opportunity for our community to explore the multifaceted themes of Shubeik Lubeik in greater depth. Her work challenges us to critically examine the desires that shape our world, and her unique storytelling prompts us to reflect on the intersection of culture, ethics, and social justice. I look forward to a meaningful discussion on how literature and narrative can offer powerful insights into the complexities of our lived experiences."
