Bookworm

This is a book with 11 short stories by a Greek author who grew up in Alexandria.

I bought it 4 years ago when I was in Egypt for the Solar Eclipse, and also was on a one day trip to Alexandria.

I went to the book store near our Hotel in Cairo and looked for fiction by Egyptian authors (translated into English), well knowing that I wouldn't find much. There is not much tradition of writing novels in that area.

I found two books I wanted to take home - among a total choice of perhaps 10, must by one author. One of them was by a "real" Egyptian author. I read that long ago and I haven't written about it, but it was a kind of a depressive book in a sinister tone.

This one, by a Greek Alexandrian is different. It describes in beautiful pictures how Alexandria used to be, by describing the story of selected people, selected things they did. things he remembers that draws a picture of the old, international Alexandria, and how things changed.

I recommend reading this book - but I think I recommend going to Alexandria first. Having been there makes it much more alive.