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Literary Fiction· Libya

The Bleeding of the Stone

by Ibrahim al-Koni
Aggregate Editorial Score30/100
Published 1990Arabic
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About This Book

The Bleeding of the Stone by Ibrahim al-Koni is a landmark work of literary fiction, first published in 1990. Ibrahim al-Koni's 'The Bleeding of the Stone' is a philosophical novel set in the Libyan desert, exploring the relationship between man and nature. Through the story of Asouf, a solitary Bedouin, the novel delves into themes of spirituality, environmentalism, and the clash between traditional and modern ways of life. Al-Koni's work is celebrated for its rich symbolism and profound reflections on existence, making it a significant contribution to Arabic literature. Themes of man and nature, spirituality, tradition vs modernity run through the work.

Book Details

AuthorIbrahim al-Koni
Published1990
Country of Origin🇱🇾 Libya
LanguageArabic
Category📖 Literary Fiction
ISBN9781566564168
Editorial Score30/100
About the Category

📖 Literary Fiction

Character-driven fiction that prioritises style, theme, and psychological depth.

Explore all Literary Fiction books →
Country of Origin

🇱🇾 Libya

This book is part of Libya's rich literary tradition.

Explore books from Libya →

Editorial Assessment

Ibrahim al-Koni published The Bleeding of the Stone in 1990, and it has since become one of the more widely recognised works of literary fiction from Libya. The book's treatment of man and nature, spirituality, tradition vs modernity, solitude accounts for much of its enduring reputation. Critics and institutions have consistently placed The Bleeding of the Stone among the notable works of its period. Our aggregate score of 30/100 is compiled from 0 editorial sources that range from Nobel and Booker committees to leading literary journals. The appeal of The Bleeding of the Stone lies partly in its refusal to offer easy answers. Its exploration of man and nature, spirituality, tradition vs modernity, solitude is sustained, textured, and genuinely thought-provoking in ways that stay with readers well after the final page. The Bleeding of the Stone reflects Ibrahim al-Koni's place in a wider literary tradition. The book's concerns resonate with Libya's broader cultural preoccupations, even as they reach beyond any single national context.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from multiple independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.
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About the Author
Ibrahim al-Koni
Libya
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Ibrahim al-Koni is a Libya author whose work in literary fiction has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Bleeding of the Stone about?

Ibrahim al-Koni's 'The Bleeding of the Stone' is a philosophical novel set in the Libyan desert, exploring the relationship between man and nature. Through the story of Asouf, a solitary Bedouin, the novel delves into themes of spirituality, environmentalism, and the clash between traditional and modern ways of life. Al-Koni's work is celebrated for its rich symbolism and profound reflections on existence, making it a significant contribution to Arabic literature.

Who wrote The Bleeding of the Stone?

The Bleeding of the Stone was written by Ibrahim al-Koni, from Libya. First published in 1990.

What awards has The Bleeding of the Stone won?

The Bleeding of the Stone has received the following recognition: notable critical recognition.

Is The Bleeding of the Stone worth reading?

The Bleeding of the Stone is a well-regarded book with an aggregate editorial score of 30/100 on 50 Best Books. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in man and nature, spirituality, tradition vs modernity.

Where can I buy The Bleeding of the Stone?

You can buy The Bleeding of the Stone on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is The Bleeding of the Stone?

The Bleeding of the Stone is classified as Literary Fiction. Character-driven fiction that prioritises style, theme, and psychological depth.

What country is The Bleeding of the Stone from?

The Bleeding of the Stone originates from Libya's literary tradition. Explore more books from Libya on our country page.

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