Syrian Kurdish author’s new book explores ‘taboo’ societal issues in Kurdistan

“This book explores topics and societal issues that people in the region are afraid to speak about.”

ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – Syrian Kurdish author Shirin Khatib’s new novel “Women of the Distant Cities,” sparked a constructive debate about societal issues in the Kurdistan Region and the greater Middle East during an event on Friday.

Researchers and academics from Kurdistan and the region attended the event in Erbil to discuss Khatib’s novel which they agreed raised important questions and opened different doors for new conversations.

The novel addresses many issues which are considered taboo in the region, including homosexuality and marital infidelity, as well as other topics like female marginalization and women’s rights.

According to the Khatib, her novel presents problematic issues that no society can easily sweep aside “in the dark corners of their soul.”

“This book explores topics and societal issues that people in the region are afraid to speak about,” she told Kurdistan 24. “I wanted to shed light on these matters so we can move forward and find solutions to address them properly.”

“These issues play a pivotal role in creating a distorted Kurdish society,” Khatib explained, “so putting the finger on the wound and facing reality is the only way forward.”

Shirin Khatib’s novel “Women of the Distant Cities” was published by Sotimedia in Tunisia.
Shirin Khatib’s novel “Women of the Distant Cities” was published by Sotimedia in Tunisia.

Khatib is from the city of Amuda in Syrian Kurdistan (Rojava). “Women of Distant Cities” is her third novel and is available for purchase at the 14th Erbil International Book Fair.  

(Additional reporting by Zardasht Hami)