Shakespeare Bookstore Brings a New Wave of English Literature to Algeria
The Shakespeare Bookstore in Amirouche, Algiers, is a bustling hub of activity as new book arrivals spark excitement among English readers in Algeria. The store, founded by Rafik Hanine, caters exclusively to English readers, offering genres from young adult fiction to classics. With a growing interest in the English language among Algerians, the bookstore has gained popularity since its opening, selling over 10,000 copies.
Rafik Hanine recognized a gap in the market for English books in Algeria and started the bookstore in 2015. In partnership with Techno-Sciences, the store has flourished, showcasing a diverse range of English literature. The bookstore’s success reflects a broader shift towards English as the language of choice, with French slowly losing ground.
Notable Algerian author Hamza Koudri, a graduate in English literature, has also made waves with his historical novel Sand Roses, garnering international recognition for his work.
This English literary renaissance in Algeria is marked by increasing interest from both readers and publishers, paving the way for more diverse voices in the Algerian literary scene.