Streetwise - Softcover

Mohamed Choukri

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1846590272 ISBN 13: 9781846590276

Publisher: Telegram Books, 2007

Synopsis

At the age of twenty Mohamed Choukri takes the momentous decision to learn to read and write, and joins a children's class at the local state school in Tangier. When not at school he hangs out in cafes, drinking and smoking kif. Some nights he sleeps in a doss-house, but mostly he sleeps in mosques or on the street. He befriends many 'lowlife' characters, while the cafe habitues help him with his Arabic and the local prostitutes take him home, providing some human solace. Choukri's determination to educate himself, and his compassion for those with whom he shares his life on the streets is heartfelt and inspirational.

About this title

Review:

'As a writer, he is in an enviable position, though he paid a high price for it in suffering.' --Paul Bowles

'Choukri's irrepressible, ultimately indomitable spirit is most touching and human.' --The Independent

'Choukri is a powerful teller of stories. His telling of oppression is vivid and remarkable.' --Morning Star

From the Back Cover:

This is the story of Mohamed Choukri and shows how throughout his trials and vicissitudes, two things shine through: Choukri's determination to use literacy to rise above the cruel hand fate has dealt him; and his compassion for the normally despised human beings who share this life of 'the lowest of the low.'

About this edition

• Publisher: Telegram Books
• Publication date: 2007
• ISBN 10: 1846590272
• ISBN 13: 9781846590276
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 222