Emirati writer talks about literary prize nod

The Ras Al Khaimah says the emirate's Jees Mountain moved her to write her winning story.

Lulwah Al Mansouri is on the shortlist for the Emirates Novel Award. Mona Al Marzooqi /  The National
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The Emirati writer Lulwah Al Mansouri, from Ras Al Khaimah, has been nominated as one of the three finalists in the Best Short Novel category of the inaugural Emirates Novel Award.

She says her story was inspired by one of Ras Al Khaimah’s mountains. Kharajna Min Dala’ Jeel (From the Mountain We Came) is a fantasy tale based on mysterious phenomena occurring on Jees ­Mountain.

“Jees does exist and it is a beautiful place. It is very powerful and it moved me to write a story based there,” she says.

Already the published author of a short story collection, Al Mansouri says competitions encourage aspiring local writers: “Sometimes it does give you the push that you need.”

Nominated alongside Al Mansouri are Khawla Alsuwaidi and Maitha Al Muhairi. Their works can be read at www.emiratesnovelaward.com.