SHARE While 2020 has been a challenging year, many people found solace in the written word, seeking out comfort and distraction from the pandemic among the pages of a gripping read. From children's books to award-winning poetry, here, we take a look at some of the Arab writers who have rightfully been acknowledged for their work this year. This is the second in The National's series of 50 Arab stars, including filmmakers, artists and musicians, of 2020. Abdelouahab Aissaoui The Algerian writer was recognised for his historical novel The Spartan Court this year, which won the International Prize for Arabic Fiction (IPAF). With the win, Aissaoui became the first person from Algeria to claim the award, which is considered the Arab world's top fiction prize.