The Hakawati Audiobook Cover

The Hakawati

Assaf Cohen

Rediscover the beauty of oral storytelling in Rabih Alameddine's The Hakawati. Set in war-torn Beirut, the audiobook weaves tales of love, heroism, and magic. Explore the enduring power of storytelling and its role in shaping identities amid conflict. In a world where endless war prevails, Alameddine offers a poignant reminder of humanity's resilience and the ability of stories to transcend time and place. Published by Audible Studios, The Hakawati takes listeners on a captivating journey through the rich cultural tapestry of the Middle East.

USD 0 14.95

Description

Introduction: Rediscovering the Art of the Hakawati

Imagine being transported to a world where oral storytelling is a cherished tradition, where tales of love, heroism, and magic are passed down through generations. In Rabih Alameddine's captivating audiobook, The Hakawati, readers are immersed in the rich tapestry of Arabian Nights for the 21st century.

Unveiling the Tapestry of Stories

Set against the backdrop of war-torn Beirut, the narrative follows Osama al-Kharrat as he returns to his homeland after a long sojourn in America. As he stands vigil at his father's deathbed, an intricate web of stories unfolds, merging Osama's own family history with classic tales from the Middle East. The Hakawati, or storyteller, has long been a revered figure in Arab culture. Through the eyes of Osama, we are introduced to his grandfather, a master hakawati, whose enchanting stories transport readers to a time and place where anything is possible. From the biblical tale of Abraham and Isaac to the exploits of Baybars, the slave prince who conquered the Crusaders, each story weaves its own spell, revealing the power of narrative in shaping our understanding of the world.

A Bittersweet Symphony of War and Identity

Alameddine masterfully intertwines the ancient and the contemporary, fusing elements of historical fiction with the lived experiences of modern Lebanon. As Osama navigates the complexities of his country's turmoil, he finds solace in the stories and memories passed down through generations. Through recurring themes of war, conflicted identity, and resilience, Alameddine paints a vivid portrait of a nation caught in the throes of endless conflict. The stories of individuals amid chaos serve as a poignant reminder of the human capacity for survival and the enduring power of storytelling in times of adversity.

Audiobook Experience: A Feast for the Senses

To fully immerse readers in the world of The Hakawati, Audible Studios brings this masterpiece to life with a captivating audiobook experience. With a remarkably talented narrator at the helm, the listener is transported to the vibrant streets of Beirut, the cacophony of battlefields, and the intimate spaces where stories are spun.

Conclusion: The Hakawati and the Endless Magic of Stories

Rabih Alameddine's The Hakawati is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling. Through its spellbinding narrative and rich cultural tapestry, it reminds us of the inherent human need to connect and find solace in shared stories. As we journey alongside Osama al-Kharrat, we too become hakawatis, custodians of tales that transcend time and place. In the age of digital media, this audiobook serves as a reminder that the oral tradition remains a vital channel through which we explore the depths of our humanity. Writer: Rabih Alameddine Publisher: Audible Studios

Additional Info

Book Name: The Hakawati
Book Format: AudiobookFormat
Authors: Rabih Alameddine
Narrators: Assaf Cohen
Genres: Literature & Fiction
Audiobook Length: 20H53M
Publisher: Audible Studios
Language: English
Publish Date: 2014-12-12
Last Price: 14.95 USD

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)

What is the book 'The Hakawati' about?

The book 'The Hakawati' is about Osama al-Kharrat returning to Beirut after many years in America to stand vigil at his father's deathbed. It tells the story of his family and the tales of his grandfather, who was a hakawati.

Who is the author of 'The Hakawati'?

The author of 'The Hakawati' is Rabih Alameddine.

Who published 'The Hakawati'?

The book 'The Hakawati' was published by Audible Studios.

What are some themes explored in 'The Hakawati'?

Some themes explored in 'The Hakawati' include seemingly endless war, conflicted identity, and survival.

What are some criticisms of the audiobook version of 'The Hakawati'?

Some criticisms of the audiobook version of 'The Hakawati' include confusion, difficulty in distinguishing between different threads and stories, poor Arabic accent by the narrator, and inadequate pauses for section breaks.

What are some positive aspects of the book 'The Hakawati'?

Some positive aspects of the book 'The Hakawati' include beautiful storytelling, the woven together of different stories, and the pleasure of listening to it.

What does the term 'hakawati' mean?

The term 'hakawati' means storyteller in Lebanese.

Reviews

12 reviews for this audiobook
  • Sa
    Sarah Johnson 04-Oct-2023

    I absolutely loved The Hakawati audiobook! Rabih Alameddine's storytelling abilities are out of this world. The way he weaves together multiple narratives and combines mythology and history is simply mesmerizing. The narrator's voice was perfect for this enchanting tale. Highly recommend!

  • Mi
    Michael Smith 06-Oct-2023

    The Hakawati is an audiobook that grabs hold of your imagination and doesn't let go. I was completely captivated by the rich characters and the intricate plot. Alameddine's writing is lyrical and powerful, and the narration adds an extra layer of magic. A must-listen!

  • Em
    Emily Walker 08-Oct-2023

    I couldn't stop listening to The Hakawati audiobook. It drew me in from the very first sentence and held my attention until the end. Alameddine's storytelling is masterful, and the way he explores themes of love, family, and the power of storytelling is simply brilliant. Highly recommended!

  • Da
    David Thompson 14-Oct-2023

    The Hakawati audiobook is a true masterpiece. Alameddine's writing style is poetic and evocative, painting vivid images in the listener's mind. The narrator's voice is captivating, making it easy to get lost in the story. I was completely enthralled from start to finish.

  • Je
    Jennifer Wilson 07-Nov-2023

    The Hakawati is an audiobook that transports you to another world. Alameddine's vivid descriptions and imaginative storytelling create a rich and immersive experience. I felt like I was right there with the characters, experiencing their joys and sorrows. Absolutely loved it!

  • Jo
    John Davis 12-Dec-2023

    I can't recommend The Hakawati audiobook enough. Alameddine's writing is beautiful and enchanting, and the narrator's performance brings the story to life. The way the narrative seamlessly blends modern and ancient tales is truly remarkable. A must-listen for any lover of mythology and storytelling.

  • Em
    Emily White 24-Dec-2023

    The Hakawati is a captivating audiobook that kept me hooked from beginning to end. Alameddine's ability to blend different narratives and time periods is impressive, and the storytelling is both lyrical and thought-provoking. I was completely immersed in the world he created.

  • Br
    Brian Johnson 04-Feb-2024

    I was blown away by The Hakawati audiobook. Alameddine's writing is poetic and insightful, and the narrator's voice adds an extra layer of depth to the story. The characters are richly developed, and the exploration of themes such as identity and heritage is thought-provoking. Highly recommend!

  • Je
    Jessica Hernandez 15-Mar-2024

    The Hakawati is a gem of an audiobook. Alameddine's storytelling skills are unparalleled, and the way he brings together different narratives is truly fascinating. The narrator's voice is perfect for this epic tale, transporting the listener to a world of legends and myths. A must-listen!

  • Da
    Daniel Taylor 24-Mar-2024

    The Hakawati audiobook is a true work of art. Alameddine's writing is exquisite, and his ability to interweave different storylines is impressive. The narrator's voice is captivating, and I found myself hanging on every word. This is a book that will stay with me for a long time.

  • Mi
    Michelle Lee 03-May-2024

    The Hakawati audiobook is a masterpiece of storytelling. Alameddine's prose is beautifully crafted, and the way he blends together history, myth, and personal narratives is truly remarkable. The narrator's performance is superb, bringing the characters to life. Highly recommended!

  • Ch
    Christopher Brown 08-Jul-2024

    I was completely enchanted by The Hakawati audiobook. Alameddine's writing is lyrical and poetic, and the narrator's voice is pure magic. The way the story unfolds, with layers upon layers of narrative, is simply mesmerizing. A must-listen for anyone who appreciates the power of storytelling.

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