The Journey of

Every author dreams of the moment when a story crosses borders. For me, that moment has arrived. I am incredibly proud to announce that The Djinn Never Sleep will be translated into Arabic following the signing of a publishing agreement with Sefsafa Publishing, one of Egypt's best-known independent publishing houses. This is far more than a translation. It is a journey back to the culture that inspired the novel in the first place.

The Heart of the Story

When I began writing The Djinn Never Sleep, I wanted to explore the mysterious world of the Djinn. They are not merely supernatural beings; they are part of the rich cultural heritage of the Middle East. Living in Egypt has allowed me to experience these stories through conversations, traditions, and everyday life. To now see this novel becoming available for Arabic readers feels like the story has come full circle.

Why Sefsafa?

Choosing the right publisher is one of the most important decisions an author can make. Founded in 2009 by publisher and novelist Mohamed El Baaly, Sefsafa Publishing has built a strong reputation as one of Egypt's leading independent literary publishers. The house has published hundreds of Arabic titles and translated dozens of international works into Arabic. They are known for supporting contemporary literature, cultural dialogue, and emerging voices.

Sefsafa is also recognized for organizing literary events. They create opportunities for dialogue between Egyptian and international authors. Their commitment to high-quality literature and translation makes them an exciting home for books that connect different cultures. As a German author living in Egypt, I couldn't imagine a more meaningful partner for this project.

More Than a Translation

Translating a novel like The Djinn Never Sleep is not simply replacing one language with another. The book contains folklore, mythology, psychology, symbolism, and cultural references that deserve careful attention. Every sentence must preserve not only the meaning but also the atmosphere of the story.

This makes the project both exciting and deeply respectful of the culture from which many of these legends originate. It’s a delicate dance between languages, where every word must resonate with the same depth and emotion.

The Process of Translation

The translation process is intricate. It involves more than just words; it requires an understanding of context and nuance. The translator, Aziza Jad, is not just converting text. She is weaving the essence of the story into a new tapestry. Each phrase must evoke the same feelings in Arabic as it does in English.

This task is both daunting and exhilarating. It is an opportunity to reach a wider audience, to share my vision with those who may have a different cultural background. The Djinn, with their complex nature, will now whisper their secrets in a new tongue.

Embracing Cultural Nuances

Cultural nuances are vital in storytelling. They breathe life into the narrative. The Djinn are steeped in the folklore of the Middle East. Their tales are rich with lessons, fears, and hopes. As I reflect on these stories, I realize how much they shape our understanding of the world.

The Arabic edition will allow readers to connect with these themes on a deeper level. It will invite them to explore their own interpretations of the Djinn's world. This connection is what I hope to achieve with this translation.

Looking Ahead

This is an important milestone in my journey as an author. What began as an idea has grown into a novel published in Europe. It has been presented at book signings and is now prepared for publication in one of the world's most important Arabic-speaking literary markets.

I am grateful to everyone who has supported my work. From my readers and fellow writers to the incredible team at Sefsafa, your encouragement means the world to me. I cannot wait to hold the Arabic edition in my hands.

The Power of Stories

Sometimes stories travel farther than we ever imagined. They transcend borders and cultures. They connect us in ways we may not fully understand. And perhaps that is exactly what stories are meant to do. They are bridges between worlds, inviting us to explore the unknown.

In this journey, I have learned that every story has the potential to resonate with others. It can spark curiosity, ignite passion, and inspire change. I hope that The Djinn Never Sleep will do just that for its new readers.

Sandra Niebuhr (S.B. Darkmoor) (translated to Arabic by Aziza Jad)