Somar Shehadeh

Somar Shehadeh is a Syrian writer, novelist, and journalist, born in the coastal city of Latakia in 1989.  After pursuing studies in electronics and communications engineering, he turned his passion toward journalism, where he made significant contributions to the Arab cultural landscape. He wrote for prominent newspapers, magazines, and websites, including Rumman Cultural Magazine, Ultra Iraq, The New Arab, The Middle East, and Raseef 22. Shehadeh has emerged as one of the most compelling young voices in contemporary Syrian literature, addressing the complexities of Syrian and Arab realities—past and present—with a keen eye for detail and a profound understanding of human struggles. His works have received both critical acclaim and public admiration.

Shehadeh’s literary journey began with his debut novel, Maize Fields, published in 2016 by Mamdouh Adwan for Publishing and Distribution in Damascus. In the same year, the novel earned him the prestigious Tayeb Saleh International Prize for Creative Writing, solidifying his reputation as a rising star in the Arab literary world. He continued to captivate readers with his second novel, Al-Hajran, published in 2019 by Al-Tanweer in Cairo. This work further cemented his place in the literary scene, winning the Naguib Mahfouz Prize for Arabic Fiction in 2021, an honor bestowed by the Supreme Council of Culture. In 2023, Shehadeh added to his impressive repertoire with Yesterday's Houses, published by Al-Karma Books in Cairo, followed by Now My Life Has Started in 2024, also by Al-Karma Books. The latter work secured him a spot on the long list for the Sheikh Zayed Book Award for Young Authors (2024-2025). Through these works, Shehadeh delves deeply into the human experience, exploring themes that reflect the cultural and social transformations shaping Syrian and Arab societies.
Shehadeh’s literary writings transcend geographical and temporal boundaries, capturing the pains, dreams, and aspirations of a society in turmoil. With a unique ability to blend the real with the poetic, Shehadeh crafts narratives that resonate deeply with readers, touching their consciences and stirring their emotions. His works not only document the struggles of his time but also offer a timeless exploration of identity, loss, and resilience, making him a vital voice in the literary world today.