As part of the rich program of the International Book and Publishing Fair, a special reading session was dedicated to the newly published novel "The Game of Chairs" by acclaimed Moroccan writer Ahmed El Madini.

Introducing the event, El Madini explained, "This session is dedicated to reading the novel, which was published just a week ago." The session featured a thoughtful review by critic Noureddine Darmouch, who shared his impression with the audience: "It is truly an astonishing novel. Reading it was both challenging and enjoyable for me. The title immediately captured my attention, the combination of play and madness. This is not surprising for readers familiar with Ahmed El Madini’s style. The novel invites the reader into a playful, almost mad world, starting from its very first chapters."

Darmouch revealed that he read the novel twice, saying, "The first time, I was discovering the world of the novel; the second time, I tried to dive deeper and better understand its layers." He noted that the story unfolds in Rabat, portraying the city in a satirical manner where readers feel either part of a conspiracy or a victim of it.

"The chair," Darmouch emphasized, "symbolizes power and ambition in Rabat, with characters striving desperately to secure an important seat, or position, in the city." He also highlighted the playful tone of the novel, especially the clever manipulation of names such as the "Higher Institute of Al-Watwati," adding, "At first, the novel has a humorous, almost absurd spirit, but as the story progresses, it flips the dynamics of the game."

"The Game of Chairs" represents a major milestone in Ahmed El Madini’s literary career, as it marks the first time, he has written a novel in a continuous single flow, using one breath and one wordplay throughout.

Through humor, satire, and rich narrative innovation, "The Game of Chairs" offers readers a sharp and playful look at social ambition and power dynamics. This new work once again confirms Ahmed El Madini's unique voice in Moroccan and Arab literature.