Four Hamad Bin Khalifa University Press (HBKU Press) books have been recognised as finalists at the 2021 National Indie Excellence Award (NIEA), an award that recognises self-publishers and independent presses who produce books of excellence in every aspect.
The books include: A Fright Night, originally in Arabic by Muneera Saad al-Romaihi and illustrated by Fabiola Colavecchio, and Swish’s Winning Smile, written in English by Matthias Krug and illustrated by Nikos Yanopulos, in the category of Children’s Fiction; Migrating Hoopoe, originally in Arabic by Soha Abu Chacra and illustrated by Omar Lafi, in the category of Children’s Inspirational/Motivation; and, The Forgotten Garden, written originally in Arabic by Basma Elkhatib and illustrated by Omar Lafi, in the category of Picture Books All Ages.
Translation of the Arabic books were the work of children’s book author and translator Ghenwa Yehia.
“Our inaugural participation in the NIEA resulted in outstanding recognition and has cemented a new avenue in which to participate in the global literary landscape, and in cross-cultural communications,” explained, Bachar Chebaro, executive director, HBKU Press.
Established in 2005, the NIEA are open to all English language books from small presses, mid-size independent publishers, university presses, and self-published authors.
Entrants are judged by book industry experts including other publishers, editors, authors, and designers.
 
 
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