Leave the Birds Alone

Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, launched last night the new book "Leave the Birds Alone" written by Emirati businessman, writer and satirist, Sultan Saeed Al Darmaki, in Abu Dhabi. Al Darmaki is a breakthrough talent who has a unique perspective on life and literature.  His latest book breaks the mold, combining his crackling witticisms with standout artwork in every page. The result is an exciting and innovative book that has already received considerable attention and whose release is highly anticipated “I wanted to come up with a different kind of presentation for the written word by integrating visually stimulating design. The book is ideal for people who are looking for something different; something that delivers a message, but in a funny and non-traditional way,” said Al Darmak In his book, Al Darmaki takes slice of life episodes and uplifts them from mundane situations to colourful and humorous commentaries on life. He applies his satirical brush to show us the lighter, quirkier side of modern day existence, and urges us through the title of the book and his writings to free our thoughts to soar like 'the birds' in the book's title.   He says much of his inspiration comes from his childhood and adolescence. “I was inspired by my parents, my travels that took me to almost all over the world, and my experiences with many interesting people from different backgrounds. I would say that I've also been touched by the beautiful complexity and chaotic nature of life,” he said. He explains that much of his writings took place between his two favorite cities, Abu Dhabi and London, and also during his wanderings through Spain, Italy, Netherlands and France. "I always have a habit of sitting in a coffee shop in every city with my black coffee and notepad on my table, and watch life unfold around me as I try to capture it with my pen.” Al Darmaki says that his book is a flight of fancy that shows 'the good, the bad, the ugly and the rather unusual'. It took him a few months to put down his raw thoughts and ideas for "Leave the birds alone" on paper. “The selection and refinement of my quotes added another three months to the creation process, and then the final designs and edits were made by my publisher BrandMoxie.”. Al Darmaki says that the most difficult part of the process is finding support to be a writer.  " I have had difficulty in finding the support and motivation that I needed from family, friends and mentors to make this book happen. However I learned early that in the end the only one you can truly rely on will always be yourself. It was my stubbornness, my pride, and my passion that helped me overcome all difficulties,” said Al Darmaki. “I hope people will see that this book is fresh in concept but ancient in spirit, and that they look to it as a source of laughter, enlightenment and comfort. I expect many things, but regardless of what happens next, I am already happy with what I have done."  "Leave the Birds Alone" is available at all major libraries throughout the UAE, and through selected online book distributors.