Emirati Author Mohammed Al-Otaiba Releases Debut YA Novel 'The Pearl'
A blend of history and science fiction explores the enduring nature of humanity.
1Archaeological Inspiration for Fiction
The novel was sparked by the 2017 discovery of an 8,000-year-old pearl on Marawah Island in Abu Dhabi. Author Mohammed Al-Otaiba became fascinated by the continuity of the human condition across millennia. This historical find serves as the narrative anchor, bridging the gap between ancient regional history and modern-day life in the UAE.
2Plot and Narrative Structure
The story follows a 10-year-old boy navigating the aftermath of his father’s mysterious disappearance. Al-Otaiba utilizes time travel as a literary device to connect contemporary Abu Dhabi with its ancient, wetter, and more vegetated past. The narrative balances personal grief and family relationships with speculative science fiction elements to engage young readers.
3Literary Influences and Style
Al-Otaiba draws inspiration from classic speculative works including H.G. Wells’ The Time Machine and J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit. He chose to write for a younger audience to capture the perspective of a 10-year-old protagonist. Despite the target age of 11 and above, he intends for the mystery to appeal to older readers.
4Regional Cultural Context
Growing up in a rapidly transforming Abu Dhabi influenced the author's storytelling approach. He credits the city’s expanding museum landscape, particularly in the Saadiyat Cultural District, for fueling his interest in history. These institutions provided a tangible connection to the past, which he translated into the speculative world of his debut novel.
5Educational Impact and Engagement
During school readings, the book has prompted student interest in scientific methods like carbon dating and archaeological processes. Al-Otaiba aims to encourage younger readers to question their surroundings and explore history through a critical lens. The narrative serves as both entertainment and a catalyst for deeper intellectual curiosity about ancient civilizations.
6Publishing Journey and Challenges
Completing the first draft in 2019, the author spent several years revising the manuscript while navigating the UAE’s evolving publishing industry. He eventually partnered with Kalimat Group, which led to an intensive year of editing and design. The process highlights the growth and professionalization of the local literary sector in the region.
7Market Reception and Growth
The book’s launch saw a positive response, with a scheduled one-hour signing session extending to three hours due to high reader interest. Al-Otaiba views events like the Sharjah International Book Fair as indicators of a promising future for local literature. He remains optimistic about the development of the UAE’s publishing ecosystem.
8Universal Themes and Ambitions
While deeply rooted in Emirati history, the novel focuses on universal themes of family and emotional discovery. Written in English, Al-Otaiba hopes the story will resonate with international audiences beyond the UAE. He believes the core human experiences depicted in the book transcend geographical boundaries, allowing the narrative to travel globally.
Original article: Arab News — Emirati Author Mohammed Al-Otaiba Releases Debut YA Novel 'The Pearl'