Bassem Youssef at SIBF 2023: Shares behind-the-scenes
details of his viral interviews and about becoming a writer

Sharjah, November 11, 2023

In a candid discussion on Friday evening at the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2023), author and comedian Bassem Youssef revealed fresh, undisclosed details about his two viral interviews with Piers Morgan about the ongoing war in Gaza.

“When the events in Gaza unfolded, Morgan’s producer contacted me for an interview to discuss the matter. The image portrayed in Western media was very negative, and I felt that talking about it at that time was akin to career suicide. I initially refused, but as the repeated requests and abundant misinformation continued to pile on, I decided to speak and set the record straight. I considered approaching it comedically, knowing this interview would be a double-edged sword”, Youssef shared with Emirati entrepreneur Anas Bukhash, who moderated the dialogue.

Pioneering women authors illuminate the art of crafting compelling characters at SIBF 2023

Inspiring session focused on how writers work to create believable protagonists in their detective novels

Sharjah, Nov 11, 2023

During the highly anticipated Thriller Festival, taking place as part of the 42^nd Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF), three prolific women authors discussed the unique methodology they use to craft complex, yet likable characters.

Titled “Unveiling the Unknown: The Secrets Behind Writing Engaging Detective Protagonists”, the session was well attended particularly by aspiring writers eager to learn key trade secrets from within the writing world.