The Diverse Bookshelf
Welcome to The Diverse Bookshelf. I’m Samia Aziz, celebrating the power of literature and the voices of authors and change makers from the global majority. Join me as we explore the stories that inspire, connect, and transform our world. Each week I interview an inspiring guest about a whole host of themes and issues while focusing on diverse literature.
Let’s uncover the stories that truly matter—together.
Podcasting since 2022 • 107 episodes
The Diverse Bookshelf
Latest Episodes
Chitra Nagarajan on unheard voices from the Boko Haram conflict
In today’s episode, I’m joined by the brilliant Chitra Nagarajan – a writer, researcher, and activist whose work spans human rights, conflict, migration, and climate justice.Chitra has spent many years working across West Africa, particu...
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Season 1
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Episode 107
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1:02:50
Juhea Kim on ballet, art and the duty of an author
In today’s episode, I’m joined by the extraordinary Juhea Kim to discuss her latest novel, City of Night Birds—a haunting and lyrical exploration of artistry, love, and redemption set against the backdrop of the Russian ballet world.The ...
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Season 1
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Episode 106
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1:04:03
Ibtisam Azem on what would happen if Palestinians disappeared
This week, I’m speaking with the brilliant Ibtisam Azem—novelist, journalist, and storyteller—about her powerful and thought-provoking book, The Book of Disappearance.Set across 1948 Palestine, in Jaffa and also Tel Aviv, this...
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Season 1
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Episode 105
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1:07:37
Elif Shafak on the connectedness of our world, water & the power of literature and storytelling
For this week's episode, I have the immense honour of speaking with Elif Shafak — an internationally acclaimed and award-winning author whose work has been translated into more than 55 languages. With 21 published books to her name, including 1...
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Season 1
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Episode 104
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1:07:42
Ramadan Reflections: Imrana Mahmood on creativity, faith & representation
Today’s episode is part of a special mini-series called Ramadan reflections, where I talk to guests about faith, life and Ramadan. I’m thrilled to be joined by poet and creative producer, Imrana Mahmood for a conversation about ...
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Season 1
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Episode 103
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1:00:14