North Yemen secured independence in 1918 and remained an enclave of feudalistic society, often referred to as the “Tibet of the Red Sea.” Published in 1984, The Hostage depicts a bygone era in Yemen’s history. Dammaj provides a snapshot of a period in Yemen’s past, pre-unification and is an excellent entrance into a region with a rich and specific literary tradition. Looking for more Yemeni voices? Many English translations of Dammaj‘s short stories can be found online for free. ArabLit Quarterly is a personal favorite and a great source for Arabic voices in English translation. You can read my full review of The Hostage here.