At the SIEL 2026 in Rabat, readers find their haven as much as writers do. The fair brought authors together to talk about their personal relationship with their first novel.

Doing something for the first time always has its own thrill. For many aspiring writers, there is a particular joy and anticipation in writing a first book. However, this experience is often accompanied by fear and apprehension, fear of not being good enough, and of facing criticism.

At Averroes Hall, the conference focused on the joy of the first novel. Moderated by Tarik Hilal, the discussion brought together three authors: Fanta Dramé, author of Ajar-Paris; Luce Perez-Tejedor, author of Saint-Soleil; and Soundous Chraibi, author of Le soleil se lève deux fois.

To write, one must live

Publishing a first novel is often a decisive moment, both fragile and daring. It is the moment when a person becomes an author, taking the risk of entering the literary world.

The writers spoke about what it means to publish for the first time, to write without a safety net and to meet one’s first audience. A first novel often comes from lived experiences, from memories and personal stories. They added that writing begins with a desire to speak out, to make one’s voice heard. In this sense, the first novel becomes a form of vulnerability.

A new voice emerges

Writing a first novel can feel like stepping into the unknown. For readers, engaging with a debut work offers a special, almost intimate experience. According to authors,  it is like witnessing the birth of a new voice. When a writer publishes their first novel, a new perspective enters the literary world.

Ultimately, the first novel is a celebration of desire over doubt. It reminds us that every literary journey begins with a bold step into the unknown, a moment where personal expression becomes part of a shared cultural experience.