Diwan Egypt Connects Canadian Readers with the Richness of Arab Literature

Diwan Canada: A New Hub for Arab Literary Voices

A fresh literary destination has emerged in Canada, aiming to highlight Arab narratives, diasporic experiences, and stories from the Global South. Diwan Canada has inaugurated its online bookstore, presenting a meticulously curated selection of books that unites a variety of voices, cultures, and ideologies.

Diverse Collection Available in Multiple Languages

The collection, accessible in Arabic, English, and French, encompasses genres ranging from literature and poetry to feminist writings, Indigenous viewpoints, Black liberation literature, and radical thought. This rich variety serves to amplify the narratives that frequently remain marginalized in mainstream literary discussions.

Inclusive Literary Community

Diwan Canada’s mission is to create an inclusive space for authors and intellectuals from the Arab world, the SWANA region, their diasporas, and the broader Global South. The online launch represents the initial phase of a larger vision for the bookstore, which is set to expand its reach by shipping across Canada and the United States.

Future Plans for a Physical Bookstore

Excitingly, Diwan Canada plans to open a brick-and-mortar location in Montreal by 2027, providing an inviting environment for readers to explore and engage with its extensive collection.

Launch Celebration with Exclusive Offer

To mark this significant launch, Diwan Canada is offering a 10% discount on initial purchases for customers subscribing to its mailing list. This initiative aims to encourage greater engagement with diverse literary works from the outset.

A Legacy Originating from Cairo

Founded in Cairo in 2002, Diwan Bookstore began as an innovative vision to reshape the interaction between readers and culture. Established by sisters Nadia and Hind Wassef, along with their friend Nihal Schawky, the original flagship bookstore opened in Zamalek on March 8, coinciding with International Women’s Day.

Transforming the Bookshop Experience

At a time when conventional bookstores in Egypt offered limited reading options, Diwan introduced a novel concept by creating a multilingual space that featured Arabic, English, and international literature, complemented by music, art, children’s books, and cultural events.