A session of the Al-Anqa Reading Club in Mosul. (Photo: 964media)
Third anniversary
Al-Anqa Book Club on a mission in Mosul: ‘Restoring the value of books’
MOSUL — Al-Anqa Book Club marked its third anniversary Tuesday, celebrating a journey that began in 2014 when founder Wefaq Ahmed envisioned a cultural initiative during his displacement from Mosul following the Islamic State offensive and subsequent occupation of Mosul.
Inspired by events at the Al-Mada Foundation’s book club in Erbil, Ahmed launched Al-Anqa to revive Mosul’s cultural scene. The club now boasts 50 active members across various age groups and 500 participants on its dedicated Telegram channel. Members engage in discussions covering literature, philosophy, novels, and cinema, examining their social and cultural contexts.
Speaking to 964media, Ahmed described the club’s beginnings in 2022 and its outreach beyond Mosul through events like the Erbil and Akre book fairs. “The number of club members who regularly attend sessions is 50, including university and school students, seniors, intellectuals, writers, and poets. They enjoy an engaging atmosphere that restores the value of books. Al-Anqa has created a space outside the routine of daily life, especially for students during the summer break,” Ahmed said.
He noted that the club prioritizes the quality and relevance of the books it selects, with discussions aimed at fostering a love of reading and critical thinking. To date, 18 sessions have been held. In addition to literature, the club screens films, followed by in-depth discussions on cinematic techniques, storytelling, and the societal messages conveyed.
Rahma Al-Jubouri, a poet and member, highlighted the club’s role in bridging generations. “The club has added a lot to me and its other members. It is an open and safe space where ideas are exchanged and shared between three generations—children, youth, and elderly. It is a safe place to present ideas and opinions, which are welcomed by the members and benefit everyone,” she said.
Khalid Mohammed, another member, praised the club’s impact on empowering youth. “After attending six sessions, I was entrusted with moderating a discussion alongside my peers,” he shared.
