Book launch of ‘Shattered Echoes’ by Sufia Humayun held at Alhamrah Arts Council

A book launch for Shattered Echoes, a collection of short stories by Sufia Humayun, was held on September 27, 2024, at the Alhamrah Arts Council’s Adabi Bethak. The event, organized in collaboration with the International Center of Pakistani Writing in English (ICPWE) at Kinnaird College, aimed to recognize emerging local writers working in English.

The launch was moderated by Miss Maryam Raza, with opening remarks delivered by Shahid Nadeem, Executive Director of Ajoka. Nadeem praised Humayun’s versatility as a short story writer, poet, and playwright. A panel discussion followed, where notable literary figures and scholars analyzed the book’s themes and theoretical frameworks.

Prolific writer Athar Tahir highlighted the book’s exploration of varied storytelling structures, calling it a significant literary experiment. Dr. Waseem Anwar, Director of ICPWE, commended the collection as a groundbreaking contribution to English literature in Pakistan. Dr. Syrrina Ali Ahsan Haque discussed the book’s themes beyond feminism, exploring its engagement with ecocriticism, and read excerpts to support her analysis.

The panelists agreed that Shattered Echoes resonates with Gen Z, offering a fresh perspective on life and Pakistani society. The event concluded with a book reading and a signing session by Sufia Humayun.