The Yacoubcan Building
The Yacoubian Building by Alaa Al Aswany, published by Fourth Estate in January 2011, is a novel that delves into the complexities of contemporary Egyptian society. This edition, comprising 253 pages, presents a vivid portrayal of life within a once-elegant Art Deco building in downtown Cairo, now facing decay. The narrative explores themes of political corruption, sexual repression, and religious extremism through the lives of its diverse inhabitants, each grappling with their own struggles and desires.
Readers will encounter a range of characters, including a fading aristocrat, a seductive siren, a devout student drawn to fundamentalism, and a corrupt politician. The interactions among these flawed individuals highlight the tensions and hopes present in modern Egypt. The Yacoubian Building serves as a significant lens through which the experiences of love and loss in the Arab world are examined, offering insights into the societal challenges faced by its characters.
Official synopsis Publisher
This controversial bestselling novel in the Arab world reveals the political corruption, sexual repression, religious extremism, and modern hopes of Egypt today.
All manner of flawed and fragile humanity reside in the Yacoubian Building, a once-elegant temple of Art Deco splendor now slowly decaying in the smog and bustle of downtown Cairo: a fading aristocrat and self-proclaimed “scientist of women”; a sultry, voluptuous siren; a devout young student, feeling the irresistible pull toward fundamentalism; a newspaper editor helplessly in love with a policeman; a corrupt and corpulent politician, twisting the Koran to justify his desires.
These disparate lives careen toward an explosive conclusion in Alaa Al Aswany’s remarkable international bestseller. Teeming with frank sexuality and heartfelt compassion, this book is an important window on to the experience of loss and love in the Arab world.
FAQ
What is “The Yacoubcan Building” about?
Who is the author of “The Yacoubcan Building”?
When was “The Yacoubcan Building” published?
What is the ISBN for “The Yacoubcan Building”?
What are the book details (language, pages, edition)?
