In 2021, the Sharjah Book Authority announced the creation of the Sharjah International Literacy Agency (SILA) with the aim of boosting regional Arabic publishing, promoting Arabic literary and cultural content globally, selling rights on behalf of Arabic-language authors and publishers and acting as a sub-agent for those seeking to sell rights to Arabic publishers. Tamer Said serves as director of the new company. Previously, he was managing director of Sharjah-based publishing company Kalimat Group.
What motivated you to launch this new literary agency?
We identified a significant need to elevate and expand the reach of Arabic content, which served as the catalyst for the creation of SILA. Our conviction lies in the abundance of gifted Arabic authors whose creations warrant a wider readership. SILA is committed to empowering and enabling these authors in achieving their publishing goals and, equally vital, in introducing Arabic literature to a global audience.
Can you tell me what services you provide?
At SILA we offer a comprehensive suite of services to support both Arab authors and publishers, regardless of their location. Our diverse offerings include rights representation, a process through which we facilitate the sale of authors’ works to publishers worldwide, expanding their global reach. Additionally, SILA offers editorial and translation services by collaborating with skilled editors and translators to make Arabic literature accessible to a diverse global audience.
Our expertise includes marketing and promotion, where we work in close partnership with authors and publishers to elevate their creations to a global readership. We are also deeply committed to fostering knowledge and growth within the industry, by providing workshops and educational programs meticulously designed to empower authors and publishers, equipping them with invaluable insights into the intricacies of the international publishing landscape.
What type of books and authors are represented? Are they limited to just Arabic authors, or will you also represent authors in other languages?
Arabic literature encompasses a diverse range of genres, and although we are eventually looking to cover all these formats, SILA’s immediate emphasis focuses on fiction, children’s literature, and graphic novels, catering to a wide spectrum of the market.
What are the challenges and opportunities of selling Arabic books to international audiences?
Bringing Arabic books to readers around the world comes with its unique set of challenges and exciting prospects. Among the hurdles are the limited global presence of the Arabic language and the relatively low awareness of Arabic literature in many corners of the world. We are not deterred by these challenges; instead, we are inspired by the possibilities, and with the global publishing market on the rise, there’s a burgeoning interest in Arabic culture and literature. It’s a mission close to our hearts, and we’re committed to sharing the beauty of Arabic storytelling with the world.
What advice would you give to other Arabic authors who are interested in publishing their work internationally?
Dedicating yourself to crafting work of exceptional quality and originality, perseverance, and persistence are all key in the pursuit of your international publishing aspirations. Arabic authors should also consider several supporting strategies: explore the power of translation and offer your work in multiple languages to expand your readership.
What are your thoughts on the future of Arabic publishing?
The sector continues to make great strides, especially when it comes to cross-lingual exchange through translation services. Coupled with the transformative potential of digital publishing, these factors create new avenues for Arabic authors to connect with a broader international audience. At a local level, the U.A.E. has devised a strategy for literature and publishing, placing a central focus on the promotion and elevation of the Arabic language, aiming to bolster its status and influence.
Is there something that you feel people get wrong about the Arabic literary community that you want to correct or disavow?
One misconcOne misconception about the Arabic literary community is the notion of it being homogenous or that the reading trends in the U.A.E. are the same as in other Arabic speaking nations. In reality, the Arabic literary landscape is richly diverse and dynamic. It encompasses a multitude of genres, styles, and voices hailing from various corners of the Arab world. It is my hope that people will embrace this diversity and explore the multifaceted nature of Arabic literature.
