Ali al-Makhzomy

Baghdad book market

A young Iraqi hopes to unite and heal his country — through books

Arts, Culture & Media

A decade of war has destroyed lives, schools and other social institutions in Iraq, killing hope for many Iraqis. Now, a young government worker is trying to awaken cultural pride and optimism by leaving books at the cafes frequented by young Iraqis.A decade of war has destroyed lives, schools and other social institutions in Iraq, killing hope for many Iraqis. Now, a young government worker is trying to awaken cultural pride and optimism by leaving books at the cafes frequented by young Iraqis.