Since I first began contemplating writing a novel about modern love in Qatar (back in 2009) the possibility my book would not be sold in the country where it was set, researched and 
written lurked in the back of my mind.
It didn’t restrain me necessarily, so much as presented an artistic challenge. Could I write within the sensibilities of the public culture and still have something to say? I fancied myself an Oscar Wilde of the desert; a writer of my times producing content as part of the society I lived in. In case you’re unfamiliar with the big three objections of said public culture in the GCC they include: no sex, no atheism and no politics. Some readers may be disappointed to hear there’s none of any Love Comes Later.
What there is, however, is a sustained examination of life in Qatar for modern twentysomething Qataris. The online news outlet, Just Here, has some insights which situate this latest verbal only decision to ban this book.
There’s a death by car accident; reluctant engagements; difficult conversations with parents; and of course, one passionate kiss.
I’ve no concrete details about which of these chain of events in particular is in violation of the censor’s interpretation of public sensibilities.
But I will keep you posted.
In the meantime, maybe you want to have a read for yourself?
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Reader Comments
Congrats Mohana!
You’ve done a great job with this book!
Thanks for being an avid reader Barb (and book blogger!)
This will only lend even more credence to your book, Mohana! It’s too bad the powers that be cannot justify their decision. As you point out, you have not included any of the three banned topics in the story.
I hope you’re right Patricia.
The thing with banned books is that it always backfires on the censors. When I hear a book has been banned, it makes me want to read it. I don’t think I’m alone in that.
Yes lack of access often makes the reader more curiouser :).
[…] A week ago my novel, Love Comes Later, the first novel in English set in Qatar was banned from distribution inside the emirate. The reasons the officials gave were murky and you can catch up on why here. Or here. And here. […]
I look forward to reading your book!
[…] Mohana’s latest book has been banned in her home country, Qatar – a reminder to us all to cherish the liberty we have to publish freely where we […]
It’s always a challenge artistically when writing something you know people will have an outrage about but it’s great that you chose to write it anyway. It’s the best thing you could do. Always remember that some of the greatest people weren’t appreciated until years later.
Such great perspective. In our pop culture/reality t.v. world, it’s so easy to forget that 15 minutes of fame don’t really matter. And the sequel will be unbarred!