In a surprising move, Egyptian author Safinaz Kazem took to her Facebook account on Sunday to announce that her entire collection of books is up for sale for one million Egyptian pounds ($32,000). Her straightforward post read, “for those who care and are capable… my entire book collection is up for sale for one million pounds.” The decision was made with a clear mind and conviction.
Some of her followers suggested that she preserve the collection for her daughter, the esteemed Egyptian writer Nawara Negm. However, Kazem remained steadfast in her decision to part with her literary treasures. Born on August 17, 1937, in Alexandria, Egypt, Kazem is currently 86 years old and is renowned for her marriage to Egypt’s beloved poet, Ahmed Fouad Negm.
Kazem pursued a journalism degree at Cairo University’s Faculty of Arts, earning her bachelor’s degree in 1959. Additionally, she holds a master’s degree in theatre criticism from New York University, achieved in 1966.
Among her notable works is “The Bagdad Diary,” published in 1982, which documented the atrocities committed by Saddam Hussein’s regime. With her decision to sell her cherished book collection, Safinaz Kazem has stirred discussion among her admirers and the literary community, marking an intriguing chapter in her storied life.
