American books in big demand

Literary works by American authors – from novels and non-fiction to reference and business books – are in high demand at the 32nd Doha International Book Fair (DIBF), which opened Monday at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre.
While an array of literary works from around the world are on display, the US embassy in Qatar’s booth and other exhibitors witnessed an increasing number of visitors and queueing to pay for their purchases on day one of the event, which will run until June 21.
The US embassy is one of the missions in Qatar participating in the book fair, showcasing more than 4,300 books for purchase and more than 6,000 books for free. Some of the books in demand include non-fiction and literary classics such as “The Book Thief” by Markus Zusak, The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett, “The Boy Who Harnessed The Wind” by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer, “Girl in Pieces” by Kathleen Glasgow, “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee, and “The Great Dune” by Frank Herbert, among others.
There is also a huge interest in non-fiction books such as “Autistics On Autism” by Kerry Magro, “War Doctor” by David Nott, “Dreams From My Father” by former US President Barack Obama, and works by Robert Greene, including “The Concise Laws of Human Nature”.
In a press statement yesterday, the US embassy noted that the wide variety of books it is featuring at the book fair aims to foster cultural exchange through literature, giving visitors the opportunity to explore different literary works “on diverse topics, including education, STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics), lifestyle, sustainability, business, and more”.
“The Doha International Book Fair is an important opportunity to strengthen people-to-people connections between the United States and Qatar,” US ambassador Timmy Davis said. “Literature offers a window into different places, people, and perspectives. It can serve as a catalyst for discussions and cultural exchanges.”
In line with this year's theme “With reading we rise” at the book fair, the US embassy marks the key role that literature plays in fostering connections among people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. The US embassy's booth displays literary works by famous American authors and publishers, in addition to renowned Arab philosophers such as Ibn Sina and Ibn Batuta, which stresses shared cultural values between the US and the Arab world.
The booth offers books in both Arabic and English aimed at facilitating English language proficiency and inspiring readers to explore a wide range of diverse literature. It also features daily book readings for children, fostering shared reading experiences and stimulating literary discussions, according to the embassy. Apart from books, the US embassy noted that EducationUSA experts also provide guidance, professional development, and academic growth in the US at its booth.
As part of its commitment to sustainability, the US embassy said it will reuse its book frame for future editions of the book fair in a bid to minimise waste and environmental impact.
The book fair offers free parking facilities for visitors, operating from 9am to 10pm on weekdays and from 3pm to 10pm on Fridays. It invites individuals and families of all age groups to take part and engage in various activities. According to the US embassy, the event presents a rich selection of books and other literary offerings for different age groups, giving them the chance to discover new stories, embark on exciting literary adventures, and embrace the joy of reading.