In the heart of Dubai’s Silicon Oasis, a sanctuary for book lovers faced an unexpected catastrophe in April 2024. Bookends, a cherished second-hand bookstore co-founded by the resilient and passionate Grace Chaoul Karim, was submerged under nearly a meter of floodwater due to unprecedented rainfall. This deluge not only damaged the physical space but also destroyed approximately 14,000 of their 30,000-book collection, leaving the future of the bookstore in jeopardy.
A Dream Drenched
Grace, originally from Lebanon, and her co-founder, Somia Anwar from Pakistan, established Bookends with a mission to make reading accessible and affordable in the UAE. They recognized that the high cost of new books was a barrier for many and sought to create a haven where literature enthusiasts could find pre-loved books at reasonable prices. Their journey began online in 2020, focusing initially on children’s literature, and eventually expanding to cater to a diverse audience of readers.
The April floods, however, threatened to wash away years of hard work and dedication. The bookstore’s basement location made it particularly vulnerable, and the prolonged waterlogging led to significant losses. The sight of waterlogged shelves and irreparably damaged books was a devastating blow to the duo, who had poured their hearts into fostering a reading culture in the community.
Community to the Rescue
In the face of this adversity, Grace and Somia found an unexpected source of strength: their community. Upon sharing their plight on social media, they were overwhelmed by an outpouring of support from volunteers eager to assist in the recovery process. Grace recounted, “The support we have received has been so incredibly beautiful and heartwarming. We posted a message on social media explaining what had happened, and we were immediately inundated with messages from local readers asking what they could do to help.”
For days, groups of approximately 30 volunteers arrived daily, rolling up their sleeves to sort through the damaged inventory, salvage what they could, and help restore order to the chaos. This collective effort not only expedited the recovery process but also reinforced the sense of community that Bookends had cultivated since its inception.
Rebuilding and Resilience
The road to recovery was not without its challenges. The financial strain of replacing damaged furniture, particularly the wooden shelves that had borne the brunt of the flood, was significant. Additionally, the persistent dampness posed ongoing threats to the remaining inventory. Despite these hurdles, Grace and Somia remained steadfast in their commitment to reviving Bookends.
Their resilience did not go unnoticed. The story of Bookends’ struggle and the community’s response garnered media attention, highlighting the profound impact of collective support in times of crisis. This exposure not only brought in more volunteers but also attracted donations and offers of assistance from beyond their immediate circle.
A Broader Mission: Ooread
Beyond her work with Bookends, Grace is also the author of “Ooread,” a platform dedicated to promoting reading and literacy. Through Ooread, she advocates for the transformative power of literature and strives to make reading an integral part of people’s lives. This endeavor aligns seamlessly with the mission of Bookends, creating a synergy that amplifies her impact on the literary community. also the book Ooread is her book that teaches Arabic for non speakers
Looking Ahead
As of February 2025, Bookends has not only recovered but has also expanded its reach. The bookstore now boasts a more robust online presence, allowing readers from across the UAE to access their curated selection of books. In-store events, such as author readings and book clubs, have resumed, fostering a vibrant literary community.
Grace reflects on the journey with gratitude and optimism. “The floods tested our resolve, but they also revealed the strength of our community. We’ve emerged stronger, with a renewed commitment to our mission of making literature accessible to all.”
Inspiration Amidst Adversity
The story of Grace Chaoul Karim and Bookends serves as a testament to the power of resilience, community support, and the unyielding belief in the importance of literature. In the face of unforeseen challenges, Grace’s determination transformed a potential ending into a new beginning, inspiring others to persevere and highlighting the profound impact of coming together in times of need.
For those interested in supporting Bookends or learning more about their offerings, visit their website or follow their journey on social media. Do follow her on Instagram.
