In a literary landscape shaped by diverse voices and narratives, two writers from the UAE-based Dreamwork Collective have recently unveiled their latest creations. Surya Ramkumar introduces readers to the genre of climate fiction with “The Sky Has Moved Away,” while Hanae Bezad explores identity and empowerment in “Being Other.” Let’s embark on a journey through these captivating tales.
“The Sky Has Moved Away” by Surya Ramkumar: A Climate Fiction Marvel
In this literary innovation, Surya Ramkumar introduces readers to a groundbreaking narrative, “The Sky Has Moved Away.” Set against the catastrophic heatwave in Nigeria during 2009, the novel unfolds the devastating effects of a climate event, challenging the conventions of traditional climate fiction.
Ramkumar’s perspective on climate fiction is refreshingly different. Unlike many dystopian futures, her book presents a realistic yet terrifying scenario of a contained climate event claiming numerous lives. What sets it apart is its grounding in reality, prompting readers to reflect on their personal accountability in the context of climate change.
In an interview at the launch event, Ramkumar expressed, “Most climate fiction tends to look at dystopian futures, but what my book explores is a realistic, yet scary scenario of a contained climate event that claims many human lives.”
Themes of love and motherhood permeate the narrative, inviting readers to contemplate their relationship with the Earth. Ramkumar reflects, “If we consider Earth as our mother, would we treat her as we do now?” The book, written in 2009, gained newfound relevance over the thirteen years from draft to publication, aligning with the growing mainstream discourse around climate change.
As a powerful tool to tackle climate change, “The Sky Has Moved Away” has already captured the attention of literary enthusiasts. It not only hit #1 in Amazon bestsellers based on pre-orders but also received positive reception at the Venice International Film Festival. The novel stands as a testament to the transformative power of storytelling in addressing pressing global challenges.
“Being Other” by Hanae Bezad: Navigating Identity for Empowerment
Diving into the realm of empowerment and self-love, Hanae Bezad presents “Being Other,” a literary exploration of identity and authenticity. As a successful female entrepreneur, Bezad’s narrative unfolds her journey as a woman, Arab, Muslim, and African, challenging stereotypes and transforming adversity into a pathway to success.
The book delves into the concept of ‘being othered,’ shedding light on the challenges faced by Black, Indigenous, Women of Colour (BIWOC). Bezad’s story, intertwined with those of inspirational women, turns experiences of adversity into a source of empowerment.
Being a young Muslim Moroccan carving a career in the tech start-up space, Bezad had to create her own rules for success. The book is a reflection of her commitment to contributing to restoring female power. Speaking about her inspiration, Bezad notes, “I felt compelled to contribute to restoring female power and I believe stories of otherness are an important part of this.”
“Being Other” is not just a book; it’s an anthem for empowerment. It targets ambitious, creative young women who aspire to succeed while staying true to themselves in predominantly male corporate environments. The narrative aims to show that having a unique identity, or ‘being other,’ is not a weakness but a strength and a force for transformation.
Backed by global business brands and praised by international entrepreneurs, “Being Other” is described by Tim Leberecht, co-founder and co-CEO of The House of Beautiful Business, as a ‘captivating, essential read.’ Leberecht emphasizes that the book is both the ailment and the cure of our polarized times, inspiring readers to understand the roots and resolution of the world’s problems in the concept of integrity.
As part of The Dreamwork Collective’s trio of new titles launching alongside COP28, “Being Other” stands out as a beacon of empowerment, urging readers to embrace their uniqueness and embark on their own transformational voyages. The book is available online and in stores, offering a compelling narrative for those seeking inspiration and empowerment in their personal and professional journeys.
As The Dreamwork Collective’s commitment to diverse, impactful storytelling takes center stage, “The Sky Has Moved Away” and “Being Other” promise to leave indelible imprints on the hearts and minds of readers. They invite us to not only delve into the intricacies of the human experience but also to envision a world where literature is a catalyst for positive change. With each page turned, readers embark on journeys of reflection, empowerment, and a heightened sense of awareness—a testament to the enduring power of literature in shaping our collective narrative.
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