Topic: Naguib Mahfouz

As Egypt's new parliament convenes, eyes on ultraconservative salafis

Salafis want to roll back the clock to their vision of sixth-century Islam. They captured a quarter of the votes, far more than many expected. 

Nobel Prize in Literature 2011: The surprising top 4 favorites

The winner of the Nobel Prize in Literature – one of the highest awards a writer can receive – will be announced on Thursday. All across the world, literati are preparing for the big event in a decidedly plebeian way. They’re betting on the frontrunners. British bookmaker Ladbrokes has ranked the contenders’ odds, according to bets it is accepting online from “clued up literary fans.” Here’s a somewhat surprising look at the top four contenders.

8 questions for Greg Lawrence, author of "Jackie as Editor"

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis spent longer working as an editor than she did married to either President Kennedy or millionaire Aristotle Onassis.

Egyptian revolt: Ordinary people demanding ordinary freedom

Don't be misled by the grand scale and vast legacy of Egypt's legendary leaders -- from Ramses to Cleopatra to Mehmet Ali. The same nameless Egyptians calling for freedom today have always been the heart of this ancient society.

5 good books about Egypt

As unrest continues to swell in Egypt, books about the country are suddenly turning into hot reads. Not too surprisingly, the release date of "The Age of Deception: Nuclear Diplomacy in Treacherous Times" by Mohamed ElBaradei, Nobel laureate and protest leader, has been moved up to April 26. While waiting for "The Age of Deception," here are five other recommended books about Egypt.

Reading beyond our borders

Cairo Modern