Arab and Muslim Science Fiction: Critical Essays

This book explores the nature, genesis, and history of Arabic and Muslim science fiction, as well as the challenges faced by its authors. It offers critical contributions from academics, translators, and literary activists to enlighten the sci-fi enthusiast and fill a gap in the history of science fiction. Topics covered range from culture shock to conflicts between tradition and modernity, proactive roles for female heroines, blind imitation of storytelling techniques, and language games.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 353 pages
Publication date: 21 March 2022
Publisher: McFarland & Co Inc

Science fiction from the Arab and Muslim world differs significantly from mainstream science fiction from the West in terms of its themes, characters, and cultural influences. While other books have explored these differences, they have primarily been written by foreign academic voices. This book, on the other hand, examines the nature, genesis, and history of Arabic and Muslim science fiction, as well as the challenges faced by its authors, in their own words.

The authors of this book share their stories and struggles with censors, recalcitrant publishers, critics, the book market, and the literary establishment. They discuss topics such as culture shock, conflicts between tradition and modernity, proactive roles for female heroines, blind imitation of storytelling techniques, and language games.

Through their critical contributions from academics, translators, and literary activists, the authors of this book aim to enlighten the sci-fi enthusiast and fill a gap in the history of science fiction. Their uphill efforts have been instrumental in bringing Arabic and Muslim science fiction to a wider audience and in promoting greater understanding and appreciation of the genre.

In conclusion, science fiction from the Arab and Muslim world offers a unique perspective on the world and its challenges, and it deserves to be recognized and celebrated for its distinctive and original contributions to the genre. This book provides a valuable insight into the lives and works of these authors and their struggles to create and promote science fiction in a culture that often marginalizes it.

Weight: 714g
Dimension: 178 x 256 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781476685236