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Neem Tree Press has scooped The Djinn’s Apple, winner of the English PEN Translates Award 2021, from Djamila Morani and translated from Arabic by Sawad Hussain.
Dr Archna Sharma, c.e.o and publisher, acquired world rights in the English language in a deal directly from the author and translator. The YA novel will be published in paperback and e-book in February 2024.
"Djamila has created a thrilling, dark novel that captivated me entirely," said Sharma. "With a rare historical setting that blends with crime and suspense, The Djinn’s Apple is perfect for the YA market and adults alike."
The Djinn’s Apple is Morani’s first novel to be translated into English. Set in the Abbasid period, it is a coming-of-age story which follows a teenage girl on an "unyielding" mission to avenge the murder of her entire family. "Despite cultural objections, she is taken under the wing of a renowned medical professor, and in doing so discovers a manuscript for a potent herb that helps her uncover the identity and motivations of the killers."
Morani said: “The Djinn’s Apple invites teenagers into a rich and powerful period of history, and I hope they enjoy being part of Nardeen’s journey in this tale of mystery and suspense.”
Hussain added: “I’m excited for readers to sink their teeth into this murder mystery while also rooting for Nardeen as she flouts societal barriers that many young women globally still tussle with today.”