A Kurdish magazine in Sweden continues to expand efforts to support Kurdish literature. The publication, called Hano, works every month to share stories and poems in Sorani and Kurmanji dialects. The editorial team now plans to include even more dialects to further enrich Kurdish literature and language diversity.
The magazine was launched by 49 Books, a cultural group in Sweden. Since its debut, Hano has promoted Kurdish literature among children through exciting content. The team behind Hano hopes to grow a wide literary network across the Kurdish-speaking world. Writers from Iraq, Iran, Turkey, Syria, and Europe all contribute regularly.
Editor-in-chief Dilsa Yusuf leads the Kurmanji section. She explained that the project took shape over more than a year of preparation. “We want to build a bridge between Kurdish writers,” she said. “Writers of children’s literature deserve a platform.”
Kurdish literature stands at the heart of Hano’s mission. The magazine welcomes work in many dialects. Soon, it will also accept contributions in Zazaki, Hawrami, Lori, Kalahari, Laki, and Gorani. This move will highlight the full range of Kurdish voices.
Despite many challenges, the editorial team has kept the project moving forward. “It’s difficult to find good writers, illustrators, and designers for children’s material,” Yusuf admitted. “Still, we’ve achieved something meaningful.”
Kurdish literature also plays a role in education. Teachers in Sweden and abroad have begun to use Hano as part of their classroom materials. “Educators can benefit greatly from the magazine,” Yusuf noted.
The Hano team now calls on both adults and children to submit their work. They accept poems, folk tales, proverbs, short stories, interviews, and more. They especially want to hear from young Kurdish voices. The team hopes this open invitation will bring new talent into the world of Kurdish literature.
“We ask all of you to take part,” the editorial team wrote in their message. “Your words matter. Kurdish literature grows stronger with your voices.”
Through Hano, Kurdish literature gains a growing audience and a bright future. In the coming months, the magazine plans to launch new features, partner with schools, and expand its reach across Europe.