QUICK FACTS
Date of Birth
Jerusalem, Palestine
Place of Birth
Why Featured?
Mahmoud Muna is widely recognized for his significant role in promoting Palestinian literature and culture. As the proprietor of the famous Educational Bookshop and an active participant in cultural initiatives like the Kalimat Literature Festival, Muna has become a key figure in sustaining and enriching Palestinian literary heritage.
BRIEF BIO
Mahmoud Muna, born in Jerusalem and raised in its refugee camp (Shu’fat), is a notable Palestinian figure known as the bookseller of Jerusalem. He runs his family’s two renowned bookshops: The Educational Bookshop and the Bookshop at the American Colony Hotel. Muna is a computer science graduate and a trained communicator who has become an influential voice in Palestinian cultural and literary circles. His work extends to writing for local and international cultural magazines and newspapers, and he is deeply involved in various cultural initiatives.
LAST UPDATED
DATE
Monday, January 26, 2026
MAJOR MILESTONES
Key dates & turning points
Educational Background: Muna pursued his studies in the UK after being forced to relocate from Al-Quds University, completing degrees in computer science and communications.
Running Family Bookshops (Date Unspecified): Mahmoud took over the management of the family’s bookshops, sustaining a vital cultural hub in Jerusalem.
Expansion of Bookshops (2009): He expanded the business by opening an additional bookstore on Salah Ad-Dine Street, featuring a café, and catering to a diverse clientele.
Curating Granta's First Arabic Edition (2020): Muna was commissioned by Granta to publish the magazine's first-ever Arabic edition, curating works from creative Arab writers.
Organizing the Kalimat Palestinian Literature Festival (2018-2019): He organized the Kalimat Palestinian Literature Festival, promoting Palestinian literature and writers.
CONTRIBUTIONS
What they did, and why it matters
Promotion of Palestinian Literature: Muna's bookshops focus on Palestinian literature, history, and politics, providing access to a range of works about Palestine.
Cultural Preservation and Advocacy: He has been instrumental in preserving and advocating for Palestinian culture and identity through literature and events.
Literary Consulting and Publishing: Muna contributes to literary festivals and has started publishing books in English and Arabic, including works on Palestinian culture and history.
Bridging Literary Gaps: His efforts have bridged the gap between Palestinian writers and readers, facilitating important cultural discussions.
Supporting Palestinian Writers: Muna focuses on celebrating and empowering Palestinian writers, providing them a platform to tell their stories
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Last updated
Jan 26, 2026
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