Ep 13 - Books, Beliefs and Gratitude - Isobel Abulhoul

If you’ve met Isobel Abulhoul, you will know that she is a force of nature, a pioneer and a true inspiration. She is perhaps best known for literacy – she co-founded Magrudy’s, the book store chain (and a UAE institution!) in 1975. In 2008, she founded the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature, the Arab World’s largest celebration of the written and spoken word. This beautiful event has gone on to win awards such as Best Festival, Best Family Day out and Favourite Festival – and I can testify that it’s an incredibly special space and the absolute highlight of my year, every year.Isobel, who arrived in the UAE over 40 years ago, has been lauded with countless accolades including Cultural Personality of the Year by His Highness Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Ruler of Sharjah and no less than an OBE by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth. This is in addition to others including an Arabian Business most influential woman award, and one which I just love: Femina’s Unstoppable Woman.As the co-host of ‘Talking of Books’, broadcast weekly on Dubai Eye 103.8 FM, Isobel has now found an enjoyable way to spend Saturday mornings discussing the latest titles and interviewing authors from around the world.Follow me, and the Good Intentions podcast:https://www.instagram.com/kellyharvarde/Find The Emirates Airline Festival of Literature here:https://www.instagram.com/emirateslitfest/Immerse yourself in some of the books we discussed: A Little Life - Hanya Yanagiharahttps://magrudy.com/book/a-little-life-9781509818235/Burnt Sugar - Avni Doshi https://magrudy.com/book/burnt-sugar-9780241441510/In Search of Fatima - Ghana Kharmi https://magrudy.com/book/in-search-of-fatima-a-palestinian-story-9781844673681/

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Good Intentions connects with experts and storytellers around social impact, psychology, mindfulness, personal growth, and health. Each conversation unpacks the beliefs and rituals that drive and ground each guest. You will hear about achievements that go beyond the conventional and tangible to a deeper level, finding the meaning and intention behind what we do.I believe that there is a deep longing in our culture and society for something more: something higher, something deeper. Material possessions and technology do not satisfy our souls. As human beings we long for connection. I'm on a mission to spread positivity, drive connectivity and to inspire others to live a more meaningful life.