Mohamed Choukri did not learn to read or write until the age of twenty, his youth a drift in a world of misery where violence was a daily reality. This story tells of his escape from a cruel father, his wandering through dark and dangerous alleys in search of scraps of food or a corner to sleep in, and his discovery of the world of thieves and addicts—a life devoid of bread and tenderness. This moving autobiographical account is a distinguished work in contemporary Arabic literature. It is no coincidence that it was published in many European languages, like English and Spanish, before its original Arabic. What Choukri writes is often left unsaid, shrouded in secrecy, or at least not published in books, especially within the contemporary Arab literary scene.

Critical Acclaim:

• "Choukri says things that are not meant to be published or spoken. As you devour the book, you remember how this Arab generation was raised." - Tahar Ben Jelloun
• "A language that pierces our souls." - Asharq Al-Awsat
• "A bold book that exposes Arab reality." - Ad-Dustour

Book Details:

• Publishing House: Dar Al Saqi for Publishing & Distribution
• Number of Pages: 230
• Year of Publication: 2006
• ISBN: 9781855160453
• Cover Type: Paperback