Famous Palestinian Writers

Mahmoud Darwish was a renowned Palestinian poet and author celebrated as Palestine's national poet. In 1988, he penned the Palestinian Declaration of Independence, a pivotal moment in the quest for a State of Palestine. Throughout his career, Darwish garnered numerous accolades for his poetic works that delved into themes such as loss, birth, resurrection, dispossession, and exile within the context of Palestine. He was recognized for embodying the tradition of the political poet in Islam, blending action with poetry. Darwish also contributed as an editor for literary magazines in Israel and the Palestinian territories while demonstrating proficiency in multiple languages.

Epiphanius of Salamis was a prominent bishop in Cyprus during the late 4th century, recognized as a saint and Church Father by both the Eastern Orthodox and Catholic Churches. He was known for his staunch defense of orthodoxy and his compilation of the Panarion, detailing numerous heresies, including pagan religions and philosophical systems. Despite controversy over the attribution of some quotes to him, Epiphanius was notably critical of certain uses of images in the church, particularly opposing contemporary practices regarding religious imagery.

Susan Abulhawa is a prominent Palestinian writer known for her impactful literary works and advocacy efforts. She is the author of multiple bestselling novels, including "Mornings in Jenin" and "The Blue Between Sky And Water," which have been translated into numerous languages. Abulhawa is also recognized for her role as a human rights and animal rights advocate. Through her work and the founding of Playgrounds for Palestine, she has made significant contributions to raising awareness about the Palestinian cause and promoting social justice.

Kamal Butros Nasser was a prominent Palestinian political leader, writer, and poet in the early 1970s. He served as a spokesperson for the Palestinian Liberation Organization during this time. Nasser was known for his eloquence and advocacy for Palestinian rights on the international stage. Through his writings and speeches, he played a crucial role in raising awareness about the Palestinian cause and promoting the aspirations of his people. Nasser's professional life was dedicated to advancing the Palestinian struggle for self-determination and independence.

Fadwa Tuqan was a Palestinian poet acclaimed for her poignant portrayals of resistance against Israeli occupation within contemporary Arab poetry. Known as the "Poet of Palestine," she left a lasting impact with her powerful verses that captured the struggles and aspirations of her people. Throughout her professional life, Tuqan's work resonated widely, earning her recognition as a prominent voice in the literary world. Her poems served as a symbol of resilience and a call for justice in the face of adversity.

Hegesippus, also known as Hegesippus the Nazarene, was a Christian writer of the early Church. Despite his Greek name, he may have been a Jewish convert. He wrote against heresies of the Gnostics and Marcion, demonstrating his dedication to defending orthodox Christian beliefs. His works focused on refuting false teachings and preserving the integrity of the Christian faith. Hegesippus' professional life was characterized by his contributions to early Christian literature and his efforts to combat heresies that threatened the Church.

Suha Arafat is a prominent figure in Palestinian politics and activism. She gained recognition as the widow of former Palestinian National Authority president Yasser Arafat and has been involved in various humanitarian efforts. Arafat has been a vocal advocate for Palestinian rights and has played a significant role in raising awareness about the Palestinian cause on the international stage. She has also been involved in charitable work, supporting initiatives that aim to improve the lives of Palestinians in need.

Raymonda Hawa Tawil is a prominent Palestinian writer and journalist known for her impactful contributions to literature and journalism. With a distinguished career spanning several decades, she has been recognized for her insightful writings and reporting on various socio-political issues. Tawil's work reflects a deep understanding of Palestinian culture and history, shedding light on important narratives and perspectives. Through her dedication to journalism, she has made a lasting impact on the media landscape in the region and beyond.

Mourid Barghouti was a prominent Palestinian poet and writer known for his profound literary contributions. Throughout his professional life, Barghouti's works reflected the complexities of Palestinian identity, exile, and displacement. He was celebrated for his poignant poetry, essays, and memoirs that captured the struggles and aspirations of his people. Barghouti's writings often delved into themes of loss, memory, and resistance, earning him recognition as a leading voice in contemporary Arabic literature. His work continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, leaving a lasting impact on the literary landscape.

Ghada Karmi is a highly accomplished Palestinian-born academic, physician, and author. She has established herself as an expert in Palestinian issues through her prolific writing in reputable publications such as The Guardian, The Nation, and the Journal of Palestine Studies. Karmi's expertise and insights have contributed significantly to the discourse on Palestinian affairs, garnering her respect and recognition within academic and journalistic circles. Her multifaceted career reflects a deep commitment to advancing understanding and awareness of the Palestinian cause on a global scale.

Tamim Al-Barghouti is a prominent Palestinian-Egyptian poet, columnist, and political scientist known as the "poet of Jerusalem." With a PhD in political science from Boston University, he has established himself as one of the most esteemed poets in the Arab World. His works are widely read and recognized for their depth and insight. Beyond his literary contributions, Al-Barghouti's expertise in political science adds another layer to his professional profile, reflecting a multidimensional career that encompasses both creative and analytical pursuits.

Samih al-Qasim was a Palestinian poet with Israeli citizenship, known for his work throughout the Arab world. He was influenced by Arab nationalism before the Six-Day War in 1967, but later joined the Israeli Communist Party. His poetry often addressed themes of Palestinian identity, resistance, and social justice. Al-Qasim's writing reflected his experiences living in Mandatory Palestine and Israel, offering a unique perspective on the political and social issues in the region.

Khalil al-Sakakini was a prominent Palestinian figure known for his contributions as a teacher, scholar, poet, and Arab nationalist. He dedicated his professional life to education, serving as a teacher and headmaster at various schools in Jerusalem. Al-Sakakini was deeply involved in promoting Arab culture and nationalist ideals, using his poetry and writings to inspire others. His efforts played a significant role in shaping the intellectual and cultural landscape of Palestine during his lifetime.

Reem Kassis is a Palestinian writer and cookbook author known for her insightful exploration of the relationship between food, culture, history, and politics. Holding Israeli citizenship, Kassis has made a significant impact in the culinary world by shedding light on the rich and diverse culinary traditions of the region. Her work has garnered widespread acclaim for its unique perspective and thoughtful analysis, contributing to a deeper understanding of the cultural significance of food within the context of the Middle East.

Jabra Ibrahim Jabra was a prominent Iraqi-Palestinian author, artist, and intellectual who made significant contributions to literature and art. He had a diverse professional life, working as a teacher at the University of Baghdad, studying English literature at Harvard University on a fellowship, and translating modern English and French literature into Arabic. Jabra was known for his novels, short stories, poetry, criticism, and screenplays. He also played a key role in the Hurufiyya movement, which aimed to blend traditional Islamic art with contemporary artistic styles through the use of Arabic script.

Sahar Khalifeh is a prominent Palestinian writer known for her impactful literary contributions. With eleven novels under her belt, she has garnered international acclaim with translations of her works in multiple languages. Notably, her novel "Wild Thorns" stands out as a significant piece of her literary repertoire. Khalifeh's achievements include prestigious awards such as the Naguib Mahfouz Medal for Literature. Her educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Birzeit University, Palestine, reflecting her commitment to literature and academia.

Remi Kanazi is a Palestinian-American performance poet, writer, and organizer based in New York City. He is known for his work as the editor of the anthology Poets for Palestine, author of two collections of poetry, and his political commentary featured in various news outlets worldwide. Kanazi has participated in the Palestine Festival of Literature and Poetry International, showcasing his talent and activism. He is also a Lannan Residency Fellow and serves on the advisory board of the US Campaign for the Academic and Cultural Boycott of Israel.

Adania Shibli is a Palestinian author and essayist renowned for her literary contributions. Her novel, Minor Detail, gained international acclaim through translations into English, German, and other languages. Shibli's work sparked a public controversy in Germany when a literary prize for the book was canceled, originally slated for the 2023 Frankfurt Book Fair. As a skilled writer, she continues to make a significant impact in the literary world with her thought-provoking and impactful storytelling.

Rashid Hussein Mahmoud was a distinguished Palestinian poet, orator, journalist, and Arabic-Hebrew translator. He began his professional career by publishing his first collection in 1957, establishing himself as a significant literary figure. By being the first prominent poet to grace the Israeli Arab stage, he left a lasting impact on the cultural landscape. Renowned poet Mahmoud Darwish praised Hussein's work, highlighting his focus on universal themes such as bread, hunger, and anger, which resonated deeply with audiences.

Ibtisam Barakat is a prominent Palestinian-American bilingual author, poet, artist, translator, and educator. After completing her bachelor's degree at Bir Zeit University, she interned with The Nation magazine in New York City. She later pursued master's degrees in journalism and human development and family studies at the University of Missouri. Barakat's professional life is marked by her contributions to literature and education, using her talents to bridge cultures and promote understanding through her writing and teaching endeavors.

Farah Chamma is a Palestinian spoken-word poet based in the United Arab Emirates. She is known for her multilingual skills, speaking Arabic, English, French, and other languages. Chamma is a prominent figure in the Poeticians Club, a group of poets from the Middle East. She is the founder of the Parea band, blending music with spoken-word performances. Chamma has participated in various events and festivals worldwide, gaining recognition for her powerful poetry. She continues to captivate audiences through her performances, videos, and podcast, showcasing her talent and passion for poetry.

May Ziadeh was a Palestinian-Lebanese Maronite poet, essayist, and translator known for her prolific writing in Arabic and French. She began publishing under the pen name Isis Copia in 1911 and corresponded with Kahlil Gibran. Ziadeh contributed to Arabic-language newspapers and periodicals, authored poems and books, and hosted a renowned literary salon in 1921. A key figure in the Nahda movement, she is celebrated as a pioneer of Oriental feminism. Ziadeh's professional life was marked by her significant contributions to the modern Arab literary world.

Saul Tchernichovsky was a prominent Russian-born Hebrew poet known for his contributions to Hebrew literature. He established himself as one of the great Hebrew poets, particularly recognized for his nature poetry and for drawing inspiration from ancient Greek culture. Tchernichovsky's professional life was marked by his significant influence on Hebrew poetry, his deep connection to nature, and his unique incorporation of elements from classical Greek literature into his works. He remains a celebrated figure in the world of Hebrew poetry for his innovative and impactful contributions.

Nadia Hijab is a prominent Palestinian political analyst, author, and journalist renowned for her insightful commentary on human rights and the Middle East, with a particular focus on the Palestinian cause. Her expertise lies in providing valuable perspectives on the challenges faced by Palestinians and advocating for their rights on various platforms. With a strong background in political analysis and journalism, Nadia Hijab has established herself as a respected figure in the field, contributing significantly to the discourse surrounding the region's complex political landscape.

Annemarie Jacir is a prominent Palestinian filmmaker, writer, and producer known for her impactful contributions to Arab cinema. With a focus on social and political themes, Jacir's work often sheds light on complex narratives surrounding Palestinian identity and the human experience. Her films have garnered critical acclaim worldwide, earning numerous awards and recognition at prestigious film festivals. Through her storytelling prowess and artistic vision, Jacir continues to be a trailblazer in the world of cinema, inspiring audiences with her thought-provoking narratives and distinctive storytelling style.

Suad Amiry is a prominent Palestinian author and architect residing in Ramallah, West Bank. She is known for her poignant works that shed light on the experiences of Palestinians living under occupation, blending her architectural expertise with storytelling to explore themes of home, identity, and resilience. Amiry's writings often offer a unique perspective on the complexities of life in the region, capturing the challenges faced by individuals and communities while also celebrating their strength and spirit.

Taghreed Najjar is a prominent Palestinian-Jordanian writer and publisher known for her extensive body of work in Arabic children's and young adult literature. With over 50 books to her name, she has garnered international recognition through translations into various languages, including English, Swedish, Turkish, and French. As the founder of Al Salwa Publishing House, Najjar has contributed significantly to the literary world, earning numerous prestigious awards and nominations. Her membership in the Jordanian Writer's Association underscores her commitment to the literary community.

Jean Said Makdisi is a Palestinian writer and independent scholar known for her autobiographical writing. She has taught English and Humanities at the Beirut University College and documented Beirut's decline during the Lebanese Civil War and the 1982 Lebanon War in her book, "Beirut Fragments: a war memoir." Makdisi's professional life has been focused on her work as a writer and scholar, contributing to the understanding of Palestinian experiences and history through her literary endeavors.

Serene Husseini Shahid was a renowned figure in the fields of education, literature, and Palestinian embroidery. As a teacher, she impacted the lives of many students through her knowledge and dedication. Her writings reflected a deep understanding of Palestinian culture and history, contributing significantly to scholarly work in the region. Shahid's expertise in Palestinian embroidery showcased her passion for preserving traditional art forms and promoting cultural heritage. Through her professional endeavors, she left a lasting legacy in the realms of education, literature, and art.

Dana Dajani is a Palestinian actress and writer known for her award-winning performance as a visually impaired woman in a film she co-scripted, which was showcased at Cannes Short Film Corner. She gained recognition for her activism supporting Palestine through artistic endeavors, such as her spoken-word poem "Love Letters from Palestine." Dajani's work showcases her talent in storytelling and her commitment to addressing important social issues. Her contributions to cinema and advocacy have solidified her reputation as a multifaceted artist making a significant impact in the industry.

Samah Jabr is a prominent Palestinian psychiatrist, psychotherapist, and writer. She serves as the Chair of the Mental Health Unit at the Palestinian Ministry of Health, a role she has held since 2016. Jabr is known for her insightful columns on the psychological impact of the Israeli occupation in Palestine, a subject she has been exploring since the early 2000s. Influenced by anticolonial psychiatrist Frantz Fanon, her work focuses on mental health, colonialism, and universal human rights, making her a respected figure in the field.

Elias Sanbar is a Palestinian historian, essayist, poet, translator, and diplomat. He has been serving as the Palestinian ambassador to UNESCO since 2012. Sanbar is a co-founder of the prestigious journal Revue d'études palestiniennes and held the position of editor-in-chief for 25 years. His acclaimed book, The Palestinians, received the Palestine Book Awards in 2015. Additionally, he is known for translating the poetry of Mahmoud Darwish into French, showcasing his diverse talents and contributions to Palestinian culture and literature.

Mu'in Bseiso was a Palestinian poet known for his prolific literary career. He began publishing his work in the magazine Al-Hurriya in 1946 and later enrolled at the American University in Cairo, graduating in 1952. He authored several volumes of poetry, including "Palestine in the Heart" and "Trees Die Standing." Bseiso was imprisoned in Egyptian jails in Gaza twice and received awards such as the Afro-Asian Lotus Prize for Literature. He also served as the vice Editor in Chief of the Lotus magazine and received the Palestinian Dir' Al-Thawra.

Liana Badr is a renowned Palestinian novelist and short story writer. With a career spanning several decades, she has made significant contributions to Arabic literature. Her works often explore themes related to Palestinian identity, exile, and the human experience in times of conflict. Badr's writing is known for its rich storytelling, deep emotional resonance, and compelling portrayal of characters. Through her literary works, she has garnered critical acclaim and established herself as a prominent voice in the world of Arabic literature.

Samira Azzam was a prominent Palestinian writer, broadcaster, and translator known for her insightful collections of short stories. Fleeing Palestine in the Nakba of 1948, she explored various aspects of Palestinian identity through her writing. Her works, such as "Small Things," "The Big Shadow," and "The Clock and the Man," delved into women's roles, class hierarchy, and societal structures in Palestinian society. Azzam's writing skillfully intertwined these themes with the political landscape of the time, offering a comprehensive view of Palestinian national identity.

Said Al Muzayin was a prominent Palestinian poet known for his significant contributions to Palestinian culture and identity. He gained recognition for writing the lyrics of the Palestinian national anthem, a powerful symbol of Palestinian resilience and aspirations. Through his poetry, Al Muzayin captured the emotions and struggles of his people, inspiring generations with his evocative words. His work continues to resonate with audiences, serving as a testament to his enduring impact on Palestinian literature and national consciousness.

Selma Dabbagh is a British-Palestinian writer and lawyer known for her impactful work in both fields. Her novel "Out of It," published in 2011, garnered critical acclaim and was nominated for a Guardian Book of the Year award in 2011 and 2012. Inspired by the 2008 Gaza Air Strikes, the novel showcases Dabbagh's skillful storytelling and deep understanding of complex political situations. Dabbagh's professional life is marked by her dedication to shedding light on important socio-political issues through her writing and legal expertise.

Islah Jad is a tenured assistant professor of Gender and Development at Birzeit University, co-founder, and Director of the Institute of Women’s Studies at Birzeit. She is a Core Group Member of the Arab Families Working Group and a prominent figure in the Palestinian women’s movement. Jad has been instrumental in establishing various women-focused initiatives in Gaza, Nablus, and el-Bireh. She has conducted Gender Consultancy for the UNDP and co-authored the UN's Arab Human Development Report of 2005. Jad holds degrees in political science, political theory, and gender and development studies.

Hanan Al-Agha was a talented Palestinian-Jordanian writer, poet, and plastic artist. She had a successful career working and exhibiting her works in various Arab countries, with many of her pieces still showcased in online platforms. Al-Agha also made significant contributions to the field of education through her work at the Jordan Ministry of Education. Her professional journey was marked by creativity, dedication, and a commitment to sharing her artistic talent with audiences both locally and internationally.

Huzama Habayeb is a versatile Palestinian writer known for her work as a novelist, storyteller, columnist, translator, and poet. She has received prestigious awards for her literary contributions, including the Mahmoud Seif Eddin Al-Erani Award for Short Stories, the Jerusalem Festival of Youth Innovation in Short Stories, and the Naguib Mahfouz Medal for Literature. After completing her Bachelor of Arts in English language and Literature, she delved into journalism, teaching, and translation before establishing herself as a respected published author. Habayeb is an active member of the Jordanian Writers Association and the Arab Writers Federation.

Lama Abu-Odeh is a prominent Palestinian-American professor and author specializing in Islamic law, feminism, and family law. She teaches at Georgetown University Law Center and has previously taught at Stanford Law School. With a strong educational background including degrees from prestigious universities like Harvard University, University of Bristol, and University of York, she has also worked for the World Bank's Middle East/North Africa division. Abu-Odeh is known for her writings on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, advocating for binationalism and a one-state solution.

Abu Salma, also known as Abd al-Karim al-Karmi, was a renowned Palestinian poet and a prominent figure in the Arab literary world. He was a member of the Palestine Liberation Organization and held various leadership positions, including chairman of the General Union of Palestinian Writers and Journalists. Throughout his career, Abu Salma received numerous accolades for his poetry and contributions to literature. His work was highly regarded, and he played a significant role in advocating for Palestinian culture and identity through his writing and activism.

Abdulla Issa is a multifaceted professional with a diverse range of accomplishments. He is a Palestinian poet, First Secretary of the Embassy of the State of Palestine, journalist, political analyst, and film producer. His contributions to literature have been acknowledged through various literary awards, establishing him as a prominent figure in Palestinian poetry. Abdulla Issa is particularly recognized for his innovative approach to poetry, known as "the poetry of updates," which sets him apart as a representative of modern literary trends in Palestinian literature.