By: TN Media News | Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Acclaimed Novel by Dr. Waleed Alshalan Now Available in English:
Tashkeel Publishing and Distribution has released the long-awaited English edition of Laith the First: The Unknown King of England. This historical novel, authored by Saudi writer and academic Dr. Waleed Alshalan, is now poised to reach international readers.
Originally published in Arabic in 2017, the novel earned critical and commercial success. It quickly gained popularity among Arab readers, with an average rating of over 4 stars on Goodreads. The new English translation, released in 2025, aims to expand the book’s reach and cultural impact worldwide.
A Fictional Tale Rooted in Real History:
Spanning nearly a thousand years, the novel begins during the reigns of England’s Henry I and Henry II, founders of the Plantagenet dynasty. At its core is the fictional biography of Laith the First, a mysterious English king said to be born and buried in Dumat al-Jandal, an ancient city in modern-day Saudi Arabia.
Through a blend of history, action, romance, and cryptography, the novel explores themes of destiny and interconnected histories. According to Dr. Alshalan, the book is a tribute to the shared heritage of civilizations and a creative bridge between East and West.
A Cultural and Literary Showcase:
The original Arabic edition featured a striking cover by calligrapher Fahad Al Majhadi and photographer Hussain Daghriri. Charcoal illustrations by Rawan Al-Shalan added a rich visual layer to the storytelling.
Now, with its English release, Laith the First is positioned not only as a novel but also as a cultural ambassador. Dr. Alshalan hopes the story will introduce global readers to the heritage of Dumat al-Jandal and present British history through a uniquely Arab narrative lens.
The Author Behind the Story:
Dr. Waleed Alshalan is a well-respected cybersecurity researcher and author. He holds a PhD in Information Security from Royal Holloway, University of London, and a Master’s degree with distinction. His academic work includes dozens of research papers and two university-level textbooks.
In addition to his scholarly achievements, Alshalan has written three novels. His previous title, Leonardo Davin Ci, became a bestseller in Saudi Arabia in 2021.
Bridging Cultures Through Fiction:
With the English release of Laith the First, Dr. Alshalan continues his mission to connect readers across cultures through engaging, research-based fiction. The novel reflects a growing interest in cultural storytelling that blends imagination with historical depth.
As Saudi Arabia promotes its heritage through literature, Laith the First stands as a testament to the Kingdom’s evolving literary scene and its role in global cultural dialogue.
