Children of the Alley

Set in a vibrant Cairo neighborhood, this epic narrative explores the lives of its inhabitants over generations, who grapple with their heritage and the legacy of their ancestor, Gebelawi. The characters, from a proud feudal lord to a liberating savior, embody the struggles of human existence, often repeating the patterns of their forebears. Mahfouz's storytelling weaves a rich tapestry that reveals profound spiritual truths and human suffering, establishing him as a pivotal figure in modern Arabic literature.