Dive into an enriching conversation about the human experience during conflict at Diwan Bookstore’s upcoming anniversary event for Plestia Al-Aqad’s poignant memoir, ‘The Eyes of Gaza.’ Scheduled for April 18, 2026, this gathering promises insightful discussions led by Al-Aqad himself alongside esteemed writer Laila Shadid.
Together, they will reflect on the urgent themes of witness, solidarity, and hope that resonate within the pages of Al-Aqad’s work, a powerful tribute to the resilience of Gazans amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
As the UN highlights the devastating impact of conflict on civilians, including the loss of thousands of innocent lives, this event serves not only as a platform for storytelling but also as a call to action for greater awareness and compassion toward the plight of those in Gaza.

Key Takeaways
- Diwan Bookstore’s event on April 18, 2026, will celebrate Plestia Al-Aqad’s impactful memoir ‘The Eyes of Gaza’.
- The discussion will spotlight real human stories from Gaza, highlighting the urgent humanitarian crisis affecting civilians.
- The event aims to foster hope and awareness through storytelling, culminating in a book signing with Al-Aqad.
Overview of the Event and Its Significance
The upcoming event at Diwan Bookstore in Cairo on April 18, 2026, promises to be a significant occasion as it commemorates the anniversary of Plestia Al-Aqad’s powerful memoir, ‘The Eyes of Gaza,’ released in
2025.
This gathering is not merely a celebration of a literary work but rather a crucial dialogue that sheds light on the real human experiences emerging from Gaza amidst profound conflict.
Al-Aqad will engage in a thoughtful discussion with renowned writer Laila Shadid, exploring themes of witness and solidarity, and emphasizing the urgent need for hope amidst the despair caused by ongoing humanitarian crises.
Al-Aqad’s memoir is distinguished by its authentic and harrowing portrayal of life in Gaza, which resonates particularly in light of reports from the UN indicating a shocking loss of civilian life, including over 20,000 children.
This poignant reminder of the human cost of conflict serves to elevate the conversation around storytelling as a means to foster awareness and advocate for peace.
The event culminates in a book signing, allowing attendees to connect further with Al-Aqad’s reflections and, by extension, the broader narrative of resilience and humanity in Gaza.
Exploring the Themes of ‘The Eyes of Gaza’
As the discussion unfolds at Diwan Bookstore, attendees will find themselves immersed in the raw emotions and compelling narratives that ‘The Eyes of Gaza’ brings to light.
Al-Aqad’s narration not only presents individual stories of endurance but also encapsulates a collective experience of loss and resilience that has gripped Gaza for years.
With Laila Shadid moderating, the event promises to bridge gaps between literature and lived experience, encouraging dialogue that transcends geographical and cultural barriers.
The themes of witness and solidarity serve as a call to action, inviting readers and listeners to reflect on their roles in advocating for change and justice.
Furthermore, by emphasizing the role of personal storytelling in shedding light on humanitarian crises, the discussion aims to inspire a renewed commitment toward understanding and supporting the people of Gaza, fostering a sense of global empathy amidst widespread suffering.

