Mr. Magazine

Alef is the name of the new quarterly magazine that aims to “showcase a progressive vision of the Middle East and to spotlight the cultural contribution of people of Middle East origin.” For those of you not familiar with the Arabic language, Alef is the first letter of the alphabet; same as the A in English and the Alpha is in Greek. What the editors promise, the editors deliver. It is indeed one of the best showcases of the Middle East and is unlike any showcase you may have seen from the Middle East. No war pictures, no killings and no stereotypical content, but rather art, fashion, lifestyle, travel, music and architecture spreads that will stop you every turn of the page. It is a stunning reversal of the image you see on your daily television shows or in the movies when it comes to the Middle East. The second issue of the magazine (Spring 2007) is now out and available for your “indulgence and pleasure” about an area of the world that you’ve never seen presented this way. Check Alef magazine here or pick up a copy at your nearest bookstore or newsstand.