A Reading List for Palestine

Taysir Batniji: Untitled (Portraits of Martyrs)
By Taysir Batniji
(In English and Arabic)

This award-winning artist’s book presents the series Untitled (Portraits of Martyrs) by Taysir Batniji, made in commemoration of Palestinian martyrs who were killed by Israeli forces during the Second Intifada between 2000 and 2001.

This limited edition book was published on the occasion of the exhibition Taysir Batniji: No Condition Is Permanent at Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art, Doha, in 2022.

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Gaza and its Strip: A study of the immortality of the place and the civilization of the population from the Neolithic Age until World War I
By Salim Arafat Al-Moubayed
(In Arabic)

This book by Palestinian historian and researcher Salim Arafat Al-Moubayed is a significant resource for enthusiasts and researchers in historical sciences, archaeology, geography and the humanities. The author delves into the history of Gaza, providing insightful perspectives across various periods, eras and chronological milestones—from the Neolithic Age to the early twentieth century.

Available in MIA Library

The Jewel of Jerusalem
By Dr. Ibrahim Al-Fani
(In Arabic)

The Jewel of Jerusalem offers insights into Jerusalem's architectural, engineering and historical art paintings, including the Dome of the Rock, with its precise details of the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound. The book also provides comprehensive architectural and heritage details about ancient churches, markets and other elements that contribute to Palestinians' rich cultural heritage and identity within Jerusalem.

Available in MIA Library

Palestinian Embroidery: Traditional "Fallahi" cross-stitch
By Widad Kamel Kawar and Tania Tamari Nasir
(In English and Arabic)

Published by the State Museum of Ethnography in 1992, this book on Palestinian embroidery showcases traditional cross-stitch embroidery from central and southern Palestine. It features numerous photographic illustrations of exquisite examples of this art form. This book provides valuable insight into the rich cultural heritage of Palestinian embroidery and demonstrates the skill and craftsmanship involved in creating these intricate designs.

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Also available in MIA Library

Palestinian Costume
By Shelagh Weir
(In English)

Shelagh Weir, a recognised authority on Palestinian costume and a former curator in the British Museum, provides a captivating overview of the uses and diversity of Palestinian costume in her book Palestinian Costume. Drawing from her field research, historic photos and first-person accounts, Weir delves into the rich history and cultural significance of Palestinian clothing. This 2008 book published by Interlink Books offers valuable insights into the traditional dress of Palestinians and its connection to their identity and heritage.

Available in MIA Library

Labour of Love: New Approaches to Palestinian Embroidery, Second Edition Catalogue
By Rachel Dedman et al.
(In English and Arabic)

Aiming to foster better understanding between nations, this important book looks at the ancient art of embroidery in Palestinian society and how it has been transformed into a national symbol of patriotism and resistance in the decades following the Nakba of 1948. Including examples of embroidery in intricate detail and exploring its role in everyday life, Labour of Love is one of the most comprehensive books on the subject, showcasing how heritage pieces can transcend time and place to take on a deeper dimension in society.

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A Small Glitch in the World
By Isol
(In Arabic)

Inspired by the traditional embroidery of Palestinian culture, this beautiful book takes children on an imaginative journey exploring how dreams and creativity help enrich our lives.

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Stories of the Homeland
By Zain Alabdin Al Hussaini; illustrated by Helmi Altouni
(In Arabic)

Stories of the Homeland, a series of children's books in Arabic published by one of Lebanon's most pioneering and influential publishing houses, Dar al-Fata al-Arabi, includes a collection of stories depicting the occupation and treatment of Palestinians.

Written by Zain Alabdin Al Hussaini and illustrated by Helmi Altouni, the series was used in classrooms across the Arab world and became an important visual account of the occupation of Palestine. Its titles include “Girl with an Unknown Name”; “In Front of Court”; and “The Silence and the Camp".

Available in Liwan Library