QUICK FACTS
Date of Birth
1980
Amman, Jordan
Place of Birth
Why Featured?
Sanaa Shalan is celebrated for her extensive literary work, which focuses on preserving and promoting Palestinian stories, history, and identity through fiction and non-fiction.
BRIEF BIO
Sanaa Shalan is a Jordanian-Palestinian writer, academic, and cultural figure known for her dedication to promoting Palestinian narratives through literature. She has written extensively across various genres, including short stories, novels, and children's literature, often focusing on themes of Palestinian identity, history, and the experience of exile. Her work has been translated into multiple languages, bringing the Palestinian story to a global audience.
LAST UPDATED
DATE
Monday, January 26, 2026
MAJOR MILESTONES
Key dates & turning points
Born in Amman, Jordan (1980): Sanaa Shalan was born to a Palestinian family in Jordan, which deeply influenced her literary themes focused on identity, displacement, and the Palestinian cause.
Published Melodies of the Palestinian (2024): This collection of short stories became a significant work in her career, highlighting the struggles, resilience, and cultural richness of the Palestinian people. The English translation of this work has allowed her stories to reach a broader international audience.
PhD in Modern Arabic Literature (2005): Sanaa earned her doctorate, which enabled her to deepen her exploration of Palestinian literature and culture, subsequently influencing her teaching and writing.
Active Role in Cultural Centers: She has been actively involved with various cultural institutions, promoting Palestinian literature and advocating for the Palestinian cause through academic and cultural exchanges.
Recognition for Literary Contributions (2020s): Over the years, Shalan has received several awards and recognitions for her contributions to literature and her role in promoting Palestinian narratives on international platforms.
CONTRIBUTIONS
What they did, and why it matters
Promoting Palestinian Identity Through Literature: Shalan's extensive body of work focuses on Palestinian history, culture, and identity, making significant contributions to the preservation and promotion of Palestinian narratives...See More
Bringing Palestinian Stories to Global Audiences: Through translations of her work, such as Melodies of the Palestinian, Shalan has successfully introduced Palestinian experiences to non-Arabic speaking audiences, fostering greater international understanding of the Palestinian cause...See More
Educational Impact: Shalan’s work as a professor and educator has influenced many students and scholars, encouraging the academic exploration of Palestinian literature and cultural studies.
Cultural Advocacy: Beyond her writing, Shalan actively participates in cultural events and literary festivals, where she advocates for Palestinian rights and identity, using her platform to amplify the Palestinian voice.
Literary Awards and Recognition: Shalan has received numerous awards for her literary contributions, which have helped to elevate Palestinian literature on the global stage.
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Last updated
Jan 26, 2026
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