A Woman’s Word 2004
Distributed by Women Make Movies, 462 Broadway, New York, NY 10013; 212-925-0606
Produced by Silvia G Ponzoda
Directed by Silvia G. Ponzoda
DVD, color, 52 min.
Sr. High - Adult
Middle Eastern Studies, Women's Studies, Writing, Literature
Date Entered: 07/26/2007
Reviewed by Lisa Forrest, E. H. Butler Library, State University of New York College at Buffalo, Buffalo, NYWhat is the purpose of literature within a world that suffers from so much destruction? A Woman’s Word attempts to answer this thought provoking question through the wise voices of three Arab women who share their experiences as writers living in oppressed societies. Egyptian writer Nawal Al Saadawi describes her brave journey of political dissent, including that of her imprisonment in Cairo for challenging government issues such as female circumcision. Hanan Al-Shaykh, known for her politically charged novels, provides a personal account of fleeing the shattered land of Beirut. Janata Bennuna, active in the National Popular Movement in Morocco, describes her experiences as a writer of political and cultural issues. Together these strong women help shatter the powerless stereotypes of Arab women, and provide memorable perspectives on the art of writing. Recommended for collections supporting women’s studies, Middle Eastern studies, and writing programs.
Awards
- San Diego Women Film Festival, Jury Award