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Meryem Alaoui is a Moroccan novelist, entrepreneur, communication, and marketing expert, best known for her debut novel Straight from the Horse’s Mouth. In addition to her literary achievements, Alaoui’s novel was a finalist for the prestigious Goncourt Prize in 2018, highlighting the recognition and acclaim she received in the French-speaking literary world. The book is praised for its exploration of Moroccan society, offering a nuanced and unconventional perspective on the country that defies stereotypes.

Selected Book

“Sweet chaos” GALLIMARD (06/04/2023)

Residency period

From November 2023 to July 2024.

Literary Recognition

Meryem Alaoui gained literary recognition with her debut novel, “Straight from the Horse’s Mouth,” published in 2018. The novel was a finalist for the prestigious Goncourt Prize in 2018, highlighting her success and impact in the French-speaking literary world. This achievement underscores her proficiency in crafting compelling narratives with political depth and humor.

Journalistic Background

Meryem Alaoui has a background in journalism, having worked at TelQuel, a weekly French news magazine, and Nishan, the Arabic version of TelQuel. This experience likely contributed to her nuanced storytelling and exploration of societal issues in her debut novel.

Apply Now Fall 2026 Session