An Interview with Ali R Jaber
Ali R Jaber is a Lebanese-American author, writer, poet, and influencer who bridges cultures through storytelling. Born in the United States and originally from Nabatieh, Lebanon, Jaber writes with a voice rooted in heritage, resilience, and identity. He is the author of Lebanon: A Chronicle of Resilience, a work that has been added to the collections of the University of Michigan-Dearborn, the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, and Harvard University’s Widener Library.
Jaber attended the University of Michigan-Dearborn, earning a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. He combines his academic foundation with his passion for literature, digital media, and advocacy for Lebanon. As an author and writer, his mission is to represent the Lebanese diaspora, highlight the strength of his homeland, and connect new generations with the story of Lebanon.
What inspired you to start writing this book?
I was inspired by my deep connection to Lebanon, even though I was born in the United States. I wanted to tell the story of my homeland’s resilience and the strength of its people, especially during times of hardship. Writing this book was my way of preserving history, sharing our struggles, and keeping Lebanon alive in the hearts of the diaspora.
Tell us the story of your book’s current title. Was it easy to find, or did it take forever?
The title Lebanon: A Chronicle of Resilience came naturally. I wanted a title that captured both the pain and the perseverance of Lebanon. ‘Resilience’ was the word that stood out most to me—it defines the Lebanese spirit. It didn’t take long to settle on it because it felt like the book had already named itself.
Describe your dream book cover.
My dream book cover would feature a cedar tree standing tall against a backdrop of mountains and sea, symbolizing Lebanon’s strength and endurance. Subtle elements of history—perhaps faded maps or cultural patterns—would be woven in, making it both elegant and meaningful.
If your book had a soundtrack, what are some songs that would be on it?
The soundtrack would include Fairuz’s timeless songs that remind us of home, Marcel Khalife’s music that speaks of struggle and hope, and instrumental oud melodies that reflect both sorrow and beauty. These songs carry the soul of Lebanon, just as my book tries to.
What books are you reading (for research or comfort) as you continue the writing process?
I often revisit works by Khalil Gibran for inspiration, as well as contemporary Middle Eastern history books to ground my writing in facts. For comfort, I enjoy poetry and reflections that remind me of identity and belonging.
What other professions have you worked in? What’s something about you that your readers wouldn’t know?
Beyond writing, I have experience in business and marketing, where I focus on connecting people and building brands. Something readers may not know is that I use my business background to amplify my writing—merging creativity with strategy so that my words reach as many people as possible.
Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?
My biggest influence was my family—especially hearing stories about Lebanon from my parents and elders. Writers like Khalil Gibran also inspired me to see words as bridges between cultures. I wanted to continue that legacy and give voice to my generation of Lebanese-Americans.
Where is your favorite place to write?
I love writing in quiet spaces where I can reflect—either in a library, at my desk late at night, or outdoors with a view of nature. Silence and stillness help me bring my thoughts together.
What advice would you give your past self at the start of your writing journey?
I would tell myself: “Trust your voice. Don’t wait for the perfect moment to start writing because the perfect moment is now. Your story matters, and even if it reaches one person, you’ve succeeded.”
What’s one thing you hope sticks with readers after they finish your book?
I hope readers walk away with a sense of pride in Lebanon, understanding that resilience is not just about survival—it’s about hope, love, and the determination to rebuild. I want them to feel connected to Lebanon, whether they are Lebanese or not.
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