The Emirati writer Lulwah Al Mansouri, from Ras Al Khaimah, has been nominated as one of the three finalists in the Best Short Novel category of the inaugural Emirates Novel Award.
She says her story was inspired by one of Ras Al Khaimah’s mountains. Kharajna Min Dala’ Jeel (From the Mountain We Came) is a fantasy tale based on mysterious phenomena occurring on Jees Mountain.
“Jees does exist and it is a beautiful place. It is very powerful and it moved me to write a story based there,” she says.
Already the published author of a short story collection, Al Mansouri says competitions encourage aspiring local writers: “Sometimes it does give you the push that you need.”
Nominated alongside Al Mansouri are Khawla Alsuwaidi and Maitha Al Muhairi. Their works can be read at www.emiratesnovelaward.com.
sasaeed@thenational.ae
Electoral College Victory
Trump has so far secured 295 Electoral College votes, according to the Associated Press, exceeding the 270 needed to win. Only Nevada and Arizona remain to be called, and both swing states are leaning Republican. Trump swept all five remaining swing states, North Carolina, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin, sealing his path to victory and giving him a strong mandate.
Popular Vote Tally
The count is ongoing, but Trump currently leads with nearly 51 per cent of the popular vote to Harris’s 47.6 per cent. Trump has over 72.2 million votes, while Harris trails with approximately 67.4 million.
If you go
Where to stay: Courtyard by Marriott Titusville Kennedy Space Centre has unparalleled views of the Indian River. Alligators can be spotted from hotel room balconies, as can several rocket launch sites. The hotel also boasts cool space-themed decor.
When to go: Florida is best experienced during the winter months, from November to May, before the humidity kicks in.
How to get there: Emirates currently flies from Dubai to Orlando five times a week.
COMPANY PROFILE
Founders: Alhaan Ahmed, Alyina Ahmed and Maximo Tettamanzi
Total funding: Self funded
THE SIXTH SENSE
Starring: Bruce Willis, Toni Collette, Hayley Joel Osment
Director: M. Night Shyamalan
Rating: 5/5
