'I stayed up all night, because I couldn't put Elif Shafak's book down'

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I stayed up all night, because I couldnt put Elif Shafaks book down

Talking books with Saana Azzam, Chief Inspiration Officer, MENA Speakers, Dubai

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Published: Thu 28 Mar 2019, 11:00 PM

Last updated: Fri 5 Apr 2019, 12:36 PM

What book(s) are you reading at the moment?
At the moment, I am reading through Yuval Noah Harari's books as well as John Sanei's book titled What's your Moonshot?. Both address the future and have really sharpened my attention around the disruptive technologies to come and how the traditional economic market forces have changed.
A book that changed your life and shaped your outlook?
The Forty Rules of Love by acclaimed Turkish author Elif Shafak. I couldn't put this book down and stayed up all night with it, turning page after page. The 'novel within a novel' offers insight into an ancient philosophy based on the unity of all people and religions, and the presence of love in each and every one of us. In the book, the author writes: "No matter what your destination, just be sure to make every journey a journey within". And the book in itself is definitely a fulfillment of that expression.
Most memorable literary character - and why.
My fondness for strong female leads has been with me ever since I started reading - and has clearly influenced me deeply. The first time I really understood the impact of it was when I read Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen and came across Elizabeth Bennet. The protagonist's independent mind and ability to defy status quos at a time when women were not expected to do so were both highly entertaining and admirable. As readers, we get to watch her grow and evolve throughout the book and
come into her full strength through her vulnerability. It's just magnificent.
A book you think is underrated.
Voices of the 21st Century: Women Who Influence, Inspire, and Make a Difference is a collaborative book between 30 women from around the world who share life lessons and inspirational learnings regarding different elements in life. I was a contributing author in the book - which was published last year - and the only one who wasn't based in North America or Europe. It was delightful to be part of this deeply personal journey and co-author my first book.
Your favourite book quote.
"It takes the human voice to infuse them with shades of deeper meaning." One of my favourite thinkers, writers and poets is Maya Angelou and I came across this quote in her famous 1969 autobiography, titled I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings. This quote is so closely linked to the core of my business, MENA Speakers, where we know that a great speaker can, in a moment, make you alter your life path. The spoken word is so incredibly powerful when directed as a force of good.
- Staff reporter


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