At the age of twenty Mohamed Choukri takes the momentous decision to learn to read and write, and joins a children's class at the local state school in Tangier. When not at school he hangs out in cafes, drinking and smoking kif. Some nights he sleeps in a doss-house, but mostly he sleeps in mosques or on the street. He befriends many 'lowlife' characters, while the cafe habitues help him with his Arabic and the local prostitutes take him home, providing some human solace. Choukri's determination to educate himself, and his compassion for those with whom he shares his life on the streets is heartfelt and inspirational.

About the Author
Mohamed Choukri was born in Morocco in 1935. He was one of North Africa's most controversial and widely read authors, penning numerous works, including For Bread Alone (Telegram). He was Chair of Arabic Literature at Ibn Batutu College in Tangier.

Reviews
'As a writer, he is in an enviable position, though he paid a high price for it in suffering.' Paul Bowles 'Choukri's irrepressible, ultimately indomitable spirit is most touching and human.' The Independent 'Choukri is a powerful teller of stories. His telling of oppression is vivid and remarkable.' Morning Star



Book Information
ISBN 9781846590276
Author Mohamed Choukri
Format Paperback
Page Count 164
Imprint Telegram Books
Publisher Saqi Books
Weight(grams) 231g
Dimensions(mm) 200mm * 130mm * 13mm