The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

When we hear the words graphic novel and Egypt, we instantly think of Deena Mohamed’s Shubeik Lubeik (Your Wish Is My Command). And considering how absolutely brilliant and groundbreaking a work of art and literature it is, we can’t blame anyone. However, we often forget that it is not the only outstanding Egyptian graphic novel and that this country’s rich literary heritage is deeply connected with comics. Egypt is full of wonder, myths, life, and wit, so there can truly be no better way to spend your summer reading than with a graphic novel that captures the magical quality of Egypt. Since the summer is finally upon us, here are five recommendations for your next graphic novel set in Egypt to read after finishing Shubeik Lubeik!

 

Waqt Al Sheddah by Mahmoud Refaat

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Set during Fatimid Egypt, this book takes the reader on a historical and philosophical journey during a time of war and famine in the country. Throughout the philosophical discussions between the little boy, Maymoun, and old man Yehya, this outstanding story’s intense and heavy topic is made light. This book is great for history lovers, philosophers, and those who love a good plot twist!

 

Qandeel El Gaw by Charles Akl and Hazem Kamal

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Described by many as bizarre yet incredible, this book was written by fan favourite author Charles Akl and illustrated by the amazing Hazem Kamal. This book has just about everything you didn’t know you needed: two passionate musicians trying to make it, a biological apocalypse, hilarious and witty dark humour, and fantastic illustrations.

 

My Thousand And One Nights In Cairo (Alf Leila wa Leila fil Qahera) by Golo

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Egyptian author Albert Cossery’s 1955 novel Proud Beggars sparked French novelist Golo’s fascination with Egypt and, eventually, his desire to visit the country in the 1970s. Throughout the 2003 invasion of Iraq, Golo remembered Egypt with fondness and nostalgia, and he published his graphic novel in 2009 (translated into Arabic by Mona Sabry). In it, he recounts tales of day-to-day life in Cairo, from the charm of the city as he witnessed it to its customs from his interactions with its people.

 

Tawfik by Mohamed Tawfik

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An anthology with 16 short stories by comic artist Mohamed Tawfik, these comics are absolutely hilarious. Capturing the essence of Cairo down to the smallest of details, they depict the streets of the city, with the parts of it we don’t pay too much attention to. From the buildings and fuul carts to the advertising banners and even the cigarette butts on the ground, Tawfik brings Cairo to your page in an extraordinary way.

 

In The Footsteps Of Mariette (Aala Khota Mariette) By Winoc

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In 1870, as the famous Egyptologist and archaeologist Auguste Mariette was in Paris to help bring Verdi’s Opera Aïda to the stage, he talked about his life with the team of decorators. This book by Winoc is a celebration of Mariette’s discoveries and accomplishments in Egypt. Bringing a modern eye into the century-old story, having been published in 2004 and translated to Arabic by Anwar Moghith, and paired with the beautiful illustrations and compelling first-person narration, In The Footsteps Of Mariette makes for an incredible read.