🔴 As part of the 47th edition of the Book Forum reading program, and in appreciation of new authors and their contributions to enriching the cultural scene, the Main Public Reading Library of Médéa Province hosted the writer Nawal Ben Said for the presentation of her novel “Al-Wasiyya” (The Testament).

The session was moderated by Dr. Nour El Houda Bekkai, researcher and professor of Arabic language, with the participation of the literary figure and regular forum guest, the writer and journalist Boubaker Gharzou.

Dr. Bekkai opened the meeting with a brief overview of the novel and praised the timing of the reading session, noting that it coincided with the start of the school year—a theme closely related to the novel’s subject. She then invited the author to introduce herself and talk about her early beginnings in writing. Nawal Ben Said explained that the idea for the novel originated from a childhood dream inspired by a foreign film, which later evolved into a creative work.

The moderator concluded the session by reading an excerpt written by the author.

The novel falls under young adult literature and explores the relationship between teacher and student—how a teacher can be a mentor, guide, and inspiration before being merely a transmitter of knowledge. Through the character of Safaa, a teacher who positively influenced her student Ranim, the story highlights the teacher’s role in shaping lives. Thanks to her teacher’s support and advice, Ranim grew to love school, memorized the Holy Qur’an, and became a successful doctor. The novel thus stands as a message against mockery and bullying aimed at teachers.

What distinguished the session was the moderator’s decision to abandon the traditional narrative style and adopt a dialogic and interactive approach.

The event concluded with the honoring of the author, who in turn gifted her book to the Main Library. On the sidelines, a selection of books and novels from the library’s collection was exhibited. The literary gathering ended with hopes of meeting again in a future forum with a new author and a new work.