Photo : © Patrice Normand et Abderrahim Annag
Literary Journey #1 | Fatima Daas invites Abdellah Taïa
Fatima Daas's writing stems from a necessity: to name what has been made invisible. "I try to account for the colonial legacies that persist through the prism of intimacy and emblematic institutions, such as the National Education system or Healthcare. I seek to be as close to reality as possible. To find the right languages, the right voices, the right rhythm."
Théâtre L'étoile du nord (Paris 18th)
About
For this first literary meeting, Fatima Daas invites the Moroccan writer and filmmaker Abdellah Taïa. Together, they will address questions of memory and identity in connection with their origins.
Fatima Daas
Fatima Daas is a French author of Algerian origin. She published her first novel, La Petite Dernière (2020, Noir sur Blanc), at the age of 24. The book received the 2020 First Novel Prize from Les Inrockuptibles magazine as well as the Haus der Kulturen der Welt Prize in Germany in 2021. It is now translated into ten languages. Its screen adaptation by Hafsia Herzi was released in theaters in October 2025. In August 2025, Fatima Daas published her second novel, Jouer le jeu, with Éditions de l'Olivier.
Abdellah Taïa
Born in Rabat in 1973, the Moroccan writer Abdellah Taïa has published several novels with Éditions du Seuil: L'Armée du Salut (2006), Une mélancolie arabe (2008), Le Jour du Roi (Prix de Flore 2010), Infidèles (2012), Un pays pour mourir (2015), Celui qui est digne d'être aimé (2017), La Vie lente (2019), Vivre à ta lumière (2022), Le Bastion des larmes (Julliard, 2024 Prix Décembre). His first feature film, L'Armée du Salut, based on his eponymous novel, was released in France in May 2014. In 2025, he directed Cabo Negro. His books are translated into several languages.
Our take on this event
A rare opportunity to hear two major literary voices dive deep into the complexities of identity, memory, and heritage. Grab a seat for this intimate exchange that promises to stay with you long after the final word is spoken.
The Théâtre L'étoile du nord launches its first literary series on Tuesday, November 17, 2026. Author Fatima Daas invites writer and filmmaker Abdellah Taïa to discuss memory and identity in relation to their origins. This event runs from 20:00 to 21:00 in the 18th arrondissement and is open to anyone aged 12 and over. Tickets are priced at 10 euros and include a complimentary drink. The venue is fully accessible to wheelchair users and provides specific accommodations for visitors with visual, auditory, or cognitive impairments, ensuring an inclusive experience for all attendees.
Join us on Tuesday, November 17, 2026, from 20:00 to 21:00 at the Théâtre L'étoile du nord for the inaugural session of this literary parcours. Fatima Daas, known for her acclaimed novels such as La Petite Dernière and her latest work Jouer le jeu, welcomes Moroccan writer and filmmaker Abdellah Taïa. Together, they will delve into complex themes surrounding cultural roots, personal memory, and the formation of identity.
This event is designed for audiences aged 12 and above. The admission fee of 10 euros includes one drink. The venue is committed to accessibility, welcoming guests with physical, cognitive, visual, or hearing disabilities. Whether you are a regular reader or simply interested in these influential contemporary voices, this hour-long discussion offers a unique perspective in the heart of Paris's 18th arrondissement.
