The Yascoubism Building (also a film): Written by Egyptian author Alaa-Al-Aswany in 2002 this novel was later turned into a film and a televeision show. Set in 1990 at the time of the first Gulf War, this is a scathing story of modern life in Cairo and the intertwining stories of different characters within a building downtown.
The Reluctant Fundamentalist: Another film that was adapted from a bestselling novel, this story explores globalization and the war on terrorism. Featuring an international cast this film is shot on three different continents and forces viewers to confront their biases.