Crossing the Nile in Sudan (Photo: Emily O'Dell)
Sudan is not Arab enough for Arabs and not African enough for Africans.
— Leila Aboulela
Defying geographical and cultural boundaries, writer Leila Aboulela is often categorized by the media as “Sudanese-British,” though trying to fit her writing into a box is an even more daunting task. In her novels and radio plays, which explore themes like racism, sexism, and spirituality, Aboulela aims to “create dialogue among peoples and generations.” To read my friend Isma’il’s recent interview with Leila Aboulela for the NYTimes, please click here.
