Society
5.24.2022
Mohammed Alnaas, first Libyan author to win the International Prize for Arab Fiction
At only 31 years old, Mohammed Alnaas has become the youngest author and the first Libyan to be awarded the International Prize for Arab Fiction for his book Bread on Uncle Milad’s Table.
Mohammed Alnaas’ novel takes as its subject the roles of men and women in society and the place of masculinity in the world of work. In the heart of a village, Milad’s family life becomes a favourite topic of conversation among his neighbours. Indeed, after getting married, Milad pursues his passion as a baker, while his wife works to support the household. After hearing about the gossip in the village, Milad publicly challenges traditional gender roles.
An award-winning novel for its complexity
The book was initially shortlisted among six others before being awarded for its complexity and literary flair. Bread on Uncle Milad’s Table is a philosophical tale about the gender division of labour and the psychological and social effects of the relationship between the two. It questions the rationality of cultural norms through the confessions of its main character. The novel was praised as much for its compelling story as for its common sense. The winner won $50,000 and funding for an English translation of the novel.
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