By Dr Nermin Youssef Alhouti

With the conclusion of the Holy Month of Ramadan and the spiritual serenity it brings, I found myself returning to a cherished passion — reading. A stack of long-awaited books awaited my attention, each promising a unique journey through time, thought and emotion. The first title I delved into was A Glimpse of the History of a Homeland, the latest publication by my esteemed professor, Dr Kafia Ramadan. This remarkable work serves as a vivid chronicle of Kuwait’s past, documenting pivotal moments through authentic records and rare historical photographs.

Dr Ramadan’s narrative, imbued with poetic realism and profound patriotism, offers more than just history — it invites the reader to live through the events that shaped the “Bride of the Gulf.” Her literary style is evocative and elegant, transforming historical discourse into a deeply human experience. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Dr Ramadan for this significant contribution, which stands as a cultural and educational beacon for Kuwait.

Another notable work I encountered was Absent Souls, a novel that arrived with a personal dedication from its author. Once my student, Dana Al-Hasawi is now a colleague in the theatrical arts, and with this debut, she asserts herself as a promising voice in contemporary Arabic literature. Absent Souls is a deeply emotional narrative, intricately woven from threads of personal and collective struggle. Al-Hasawi’s prose reflects a raw authenticity, resonating with readers through its depiction of shared societal pain. It is in this ability to mirror the reader’s own experiences that Al-Hasawi’s excellence shines.

The final title in my recent literary journey was Shawk, a philosophical novel by Syrian author and dental surgeon Dr Shawkat Ashiti. Though not a recent release, the novel’s timeless themes and profound reflections render it ever-relevant. Gifted to me personally, Shawk — meaning “thorns” — explores the complex terrain of human suffering through a deeply introspective and philosophical lens. Dr Ashiti, currently residing in the United Kingdom, writes with warmth that defies his cold surroundings.

His surgical precision translates seamlessly into literature, dissecting the inner conflicts and existential dilemmas that define the human condition. Shawk is a poignant reminder of the enduring thorns we carry — some we learn from, others we simply endure. Indeed, reading remains the window through which we explore the world and rediscover ourselves. Through every line and letter, we gain not only knowledge but perspective — an ever-renewing lens on life.

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