Princess Nai and Other Stories

by Jamal Saeed

Jamal Saeed wrote the stories in this collection during different stages of his life, but most originated while he was a prisoner of conscience in one of the worst prisons in the world. Other stories were composed after the Syrian uprising in 2011. One story — written in 2009 when he was still in Syria — is about a mythical olive tree that the Syrian military would eventually destroy. Canada plays a role Two of the stories were rewritten after his family finally escaped Syria and landed in Kingston, Ontario.


In these stories, reality and imagination coexist, and again and again the reader arrives at the truth by exploring the imaginary. Most of Saeed’s pieces include a poetic scene that enables the reader to engage with various characters’ fresh dreams (or their scattered and shattered dreams, as the case may be). Love, beauty, despair, hope, the longing for freedom, the search for lost time, and the impact of the past all coexist and vie for supremacy. Here too there is betting on the future (along with mockery of every kind of bet).


In the end, these stories open windows to the inner world of the human soul — and it is also true that every one of Saeed’s stories is based upon a solid fact.

152 pages, Paperback

Published October 7, 2025

Reviews

[A Dreaming Bibliophile]

Thanks to NetGalley and ECW Press for providing me with an eARC.

These stories were very well written in the sense that it gave perspective into the author's life over the years, especially when held as a prisoner. I found it very interesting to read about the memories, dreams, stories and thoughts he had when in different prisons with a different political scenario each time. Some stories hit hard emotionally, especially the one about the first kiss and some I found confusing. I was unable to fully connect with the writing style but the stories were deep. I would recommend this to anyone looking for a short story collection set in Syria.

[Liza_lo]

These are dreamy moody pieces set against the backdrop of Assad's dictatorship in Syria.

Notes at the end of each story also mark when the stories were written and often they come from a period where Saeed himself was imprisoned.

While these are deceptively simple and dreamy they deal with harsh subjects: love, fidelity, imprisonment, restriction, state violence. However they didn't quite hit for me. I know that while they are engaging to read they'll slip from my memory and mind. And maybe that's okay. I would still recommend this as a book because even if they weren't 100% for me I know others will love them.

[Sonee Singh]

It is a beautiful collection of stories, many of them about coming of age, love, and significant objects. They read as snapshots of memories told from the perspective of an adult, and they are what the author collected while in prison for his political beliefs. Together, they give a sense of nostalgia for times that have passed. It’s as if he has surrendered to the beauty and the tragedy of life.

[Agnethe]

This book is a collection of short stories, written by Saeed during different times in his life, but most were written while he was a prisoner of conscience in Syria.

They are beautifully written, illustrating the very essence of life. In the center of every story is a blend of reality and imagination, love, hope and strength. They portray the resilience of people and how strong a human can be.

They are written so very human and otherworldly.

I would strongly recommend it!!

[lit._.for_life_]

This book is a collection of short stories, written by Saeed during different times in his life, but most were written while he was a prisoner of conscience in Syria.

They are beautifully written, illustrating the very essence of life. In the center of every story is a blend of reality and imagination, love, hope and strength. They portray the resilience of people and how strong a human can be.

They are written so very human and otherworldly.

I would strongly recommend it!!

[Lynn C]

Thank you to NetGalley and ECW Press for the ARC!

Should be required reading. This collection of short stories sheds light on the conditions in Syrian prisons from the perspective of prisoners (both former and current) and their loved ones. This book is a testament to the power of storytelling. Each and every story was beautifully written. Will definitely check out more of this author's work.

[Enid Wray]

Never one to disappoint. Phenomenal - as is all his writing.

Highly recommended - and pass along to everyone you know to read.

Thanks to the publisher and Edelweiss for granting me access to an early digital review copy.

[Katie Holder]

I absolutely adored this book. Unlike some other short story collections, I didn't feel this had any clear weak links. I was completely immersed in every story and loved the characters throughout. The metaphors in each were beautifully written.

[Daniel Kukwa]

I'm afraid that this is something I can only admire rather than love, as the writing style is far too lyrical and poetic for my personal taste...but under the circumstances, the fact that this even exists deserves kudos.