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Portrait of Mahmoud Muna

Mahmoud Muna

Palestinian bookseller, publisher, and writer

Born in
Jerusalem, Palestine
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Why Mahmoud is here

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.

Their story

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.

Milestones

The moments that shaped Mahmoud’s path.

  1. 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.

  2. Running Family Bookshops (Date Unspecified)

    Mahmoud took over the management of the family’s bookshops, sustaining a vital cultural hub in Jerusalem.

  3. 2009

    Expansion of Bookshops

    He expanded the business by opening an additional bookstore on Salah Ad-Dine Street, featuring a café, and catering to a diverse clientele.

  4. 2020

    Published an Arabic-language Palestinian fiction anthology with Granta, edited by Eyad Barghuthy.

  5. 2018-2019

    Organizing the Kalimat Palestinian Literature Festival

    He organized the Kalimat Palestinian Literature Festival, promoting Palestinian literature and writers.

Legacy

What they built, changed and left behind.

  1. Promotion of Palestinian Literature

    Muna's bookshops focus on Palestinian literature, history, and politics, providing access to a range of works about Palestine.

  2. Cultural Preservation and Advocacy

    He has been instrumental in preserving and advocating for Palestinian culture and identity through literature and events.

  3. 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.

  4. Bridging Literary Gaps

    His efforts have bridged the gap between Palestinian writers and readers, facilitating important cultural discussions.

  5. Supporting Palestinian Writers

    Muna focuses on celebrating and empowering Palestinian writers, providing them a platform to tell their stories.

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