It is wonderful to see so many global stars gracing the Sharjah International Book Fair. I have attended the event last year, heard to many stars. I also had the opportunity to listen to Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan last year. I am planning to visit SIBF on the weekend with my children.

I read the report published in Gulf Today about Nigerian scholar Wole Soyinka (“Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka mesmerises audiences at Sharjah International Book Fair,” Nov.4, 2023, Gulf Today.)

Soyinka won the Nobel Prize in 1986, and today he is 89, still active. I felt inspired reading about him. He has written so many plays, books and poems. This shows we can do so many things if we are determined to do that. His journey is amazing. Even I liked his words of wisdom which he shared with young or aspiring writers.

I really appreciate SIBF for bringing here so many scholars who leave us motivated. I have always been a fan of SIBF since 2008. I try to be there as much as possible. It is wonderful to be around books. The entire atmosphere inside the Expo Centre is amazing. The best part of this event is that it is completely free and anybody can go and listen to greats.

Tofail Ahmed, By email