Laila Neihoum

Laila Neihoum (Arabic: ليلى النيهوم, born 1961) is a Libyan writer, journalist, editor and poet.

Neihoum is recognised a leading woman in re-shaping the literature scene in Libya.^{[1][failed verification]} She was the first writer from there to be accepted to join the International Writers Programme at the University of Iowa.^[2] She has published online and in print, including a collection of poems and a collection of short stories.^[3] Her poetry reflects modern life in Libya, with poems like Butterflies of Meaning reflecting family and friendship.^[4] Melting Sun discusses parental expectations.^[5]

Neihoum has written about the Arab Spring and its impact on Libya.^[6] She wrote O My Libya in 2011, to create a poetic manifesto for her country.^[7] She is widely recognised in Libya and a leading contemporary writer^{[8][failed verification]} and is also commentator on the arts scene in Libya.^[9]

Regular commentary and editorial published in outlets in Libya, including “Albait,” “Almouatamer,” “Almajal” and “Four Seasons.”^[10] Neihoum also publishes literary criticism.^[11] She has edited Tesenon a collection of young Libyan poets writing in the 1990s and a collections of global short stories Ofoq min lazaward (Azure Horizons).^[11]