Haraka Baraka

“Haraka baraka!” …there’s a reason this phrase rolls off the tongue so nicely...  الحركة بركة  (pronounced ha-ra-ka ba-ra-ka) is an Arabic expression which translates as ‘movement is a blessing’. It's a sentiment that everyone can appreciate – particularly those who ride a skateboard.

SkatePal's second book is a collaboration with the incredible Lebanese designer Samar Maakaroun, and over 224-pages Haraka Baraka gives a unique introduction to the Arabic language explored through a collection of expressions, ranging from simple everyday phrases shouted in the street, to more complex proverbs steeped in history. Many contributors are actively involved in their skateboarding programmes, others are part of the global Palestinian diaspora, and some are simply Arabic-speaking fans of what SkatePal does.

This isn’t school, there’s no assignment, so the level of depth you wish to explore the book is entirely up to you. Brought to life across original photography, typographic illustrations and interviews, yet packed with finer details about Arabic script, letterforms, pronunciations, regional dialects, and even Arabic calligraphy for those wanting to immerse themselves more deeply.

100% of proceeds help to support young people in Palestine through skateboarding.

•

Dimensions: 280mm x 223mm
Cover: Softcover printed on Colorplan Ebony 350gsm by G . F Smith
Inner: 150gsm Arena White Smooth by Fedrigoni

First edition: 2000 copies

•

SkatePal Project Lead, Author, Researcher & Editor:
Alex Adetiba

Creative Direction & Bespoke Typography:
Samar Maakaroun

Illustration:
Hin Ching Chung

Design Team:
Samar Maakaroun
Hin Ching Chung
Yi-Zhi Huang

Photographers:
Aram Sabbah
Maen Hammad
Johnny McMullan
Alex Adetiba
Greg Holland
Colin Chadwick
Ben Bravenec
Paula Grant
Craig Johnson
Anil Iltas
Adam Szostek

Calligraphy:
Belal Khaled
Abu Rabi’

Editorial team:
Wala Qamhieh
Nejad Kurdi