In this episode, host Dave Cunningham welcomes back Jamal Saeed, returning to the show nearly three years after the release of his acclaimed memoir, My Road from Damascus. We revisit the response to the book here in Canada and internationally, and reflect on the meaningful moments that have come from readings, talks, and community conversations.

With significant political shifts unfolding in Syria — including the departure of Bashar al-Assad, a new interim leadership, and a recent election — we discuss how these changes are being viewed from abroad and what they mean for Syrians today.

The conversation then turns to Jamal’s newest work, Princess Nai and Other Stories. Drawing on memories, imagination, and the shadows of imprisonment, this collection blends the real and the symbolic to explore beauty, loss, and hope. We delve into a few of the stories, the circumstances under which they were written, and what he hopes readers will carry with them.

A reflective, personal, and engaging discussion with a storyteller whose voice continues to resonate.

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Our theme music is “Stasis Oasis”, by Tim Aylesworth

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Episodes also air weekly on CJAI at 101.3fm (Tue. at 4pm)