Egyptian author Malak Sherdy is making her literary debut at the 57th Cairo International Book Fair with her first novel, The Eastern Corridor, published by Ebdaa Publishing and Translation House. Classified as psychological fiction, the novel offers an in-depth exploration of the human psyche, focusing on the complex relationship between personal reality and the lingering influence of the past.
Set largely within a mental health facility, The Eastern Corridor follows the experiences of a physician and her patients, weaving together individual narratives that reveal the emotional and psychological struggles shaping human behaviour. Through these interconnected stories, the novel invites readers to reflect on internal conflict, memory, and the unseen forces that guide human actions.
Sherdy explains that the novel seeks to interpret the roots of inner turmoil, highlighting how human interactions with their environment—as well as deeply ingrained memories and ideas—can shape behavior and decision-making. By adopting this psychological lens, the work presents an unfiltered portrayal of human nature, emphasising its vulnerabilities, contradictions, and resilience.
A defining strength of the novel lies in its grounding in professional expertise. Sherdy draws heavily on her background as an Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) therapist, a field in which she works extensively with children with special needs. This professional experience enables her to portray psychological crises with authenticity and sensitivity, lending credibility to the emotional depth of her characters and the situations they face.
The Eastern Corridor is intended for readers who seek literary works that thoughtfully engage with psychological themes rather than offering superficial narratives. The novel blends storytelling with introspection, positioning itself at the intersection of literature and psychology.
As part of her participation in the Cairo International Book Fair, Sherdy will host a book-signing event at Hall B302 on Friday, January 23, offering readers an opportunity to engage directly with the author and her work.
Beyond her professional credentials, Sherdy comes from a distinguished journalistic lineage. She is the daughter of prominent journalist and media figure Mohamed Mostafa Sherdy and the granddaughter of the late Mostafa Sherdy an influential writer, politician, and pioneering figure in Egyptian journalism.
