In her memoir, Shelf Life: Chronicles of a Cairo Bookseller, Nadia Wassef expresses her deep connection to Diwan, a bookstore in Cairo that she, her sister Hind, and friend Nihal established in 2002. Beyond being a mere bookstore, Diwan evolved into a symbol of intellectual freedom in the Middle East, a feminist statement in a male-dominated business world, a sanctuary for modern Egyptians, a social hub, a café, and a passionate venture where each co-founder was affectionately referred to as “Mrs. Diwan.”
Wassef shares engaging stories about the diverse sections of the bookstore, from the café to various book categories like “Egypt Essentials,” “Cookery,” and “Self-Help.” She narrates the journey of a book from order to shelf, highlighting the challenges and uncertainties along the way, such as dealing with government censors and navigating the intricacies of book regulations.
The narrative unfolds to showcase the dynamic between the three Mrs. Diwans, with Wassef overseeing foreign book acquisitions while Hind manages Arabic titles. This dynamic not only reflects their close bond but also sheds light on the social and economic divisions within Cairo, where reading preferences and purchasing power define social status.
Beyond book-related anecdotes, Wassef touches on the significance of providing a welcoming environment at Diwan, including maintaining a clean bathroom that served as a refuge for women seeking solace from harassment outside. Through these stories, we meet the supportive community surrounding Wassef, including her family and staff, and gain insight into her personal challenges as a single mother and business owner.
As the narrative progresses, Wassef candidly shares her decision to step back from managing Diwan to focus on her family and writing. Despite this shift, the legacy of Diwan continues, upheld by Nihal and others. Wassef’s dedication to the store shines through in her heartfelt storytelling in Shelf Life, a tribute to Diwan and the vibrant city of Cairo that embraced it, honoring all those who contributed to its enduring success.
