Who Is Hisham Matar? Age, Biography, and Wiki
As of 2025, Hisham Matar is 55 years old. His rich biography includes a remarkable journey from his early life in Libya to becoming a celebrated author with a global readership. Matar's father was a prominent political figure, which influenced his work and perspectives as he deals with themes related to politics and personal history. His notable works include In the Country of Men, The Anatomy of a Disappearance, and The Return, which have garnered international acclaim, including the James Tait Black Memorial Prize.
| Occupation | Essayist |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | 1970 (age 55) |
| Age | 55 Years |
| Birth Place | New York City, U.S. |
| Horoscope | |
| Country | U.S |
Popularity
Hisham Matar's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Hisham Matar is known for his charismatic presence. While specific measurements may not be publicly available, he stands at a height of approximately 5 feet 10 inches (1.78 m) and maintains a balanced physique. Matar’s commitment to fitness complements his often inspiring and intense literary voice.
Matar on his writing process: "I start with very little: the more fragile, the better. The thread has to feel like it is about to snap. Sometimes I begin with a gesture or, in the case of 'Naima,' a feeling for a character. I had this feeling for Nuri, the protagonist and narrator.
It is like that moment when you rush into the concert hall at the last minute. You find your seat as the lights go down. You have not seen the person sitting beside you, but you have a sense of them, of what they might be like, or of how the music is affecting them, the weight of their silence."
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As of 2025, Hisham Matar keeps his personal life relatively private. There is currently no public information on whether he has a girlfriend or is dating anyone. Matar has focused on his career and personal endeavors, often choosing to keep aspects of his family life out of the limelight. It is known that he remains close to his family, who have played a significant role in shaping his experiences and narratives.
Hisham Matar (born 1970) is an American-born British-Libyan novelist, essayist, and memoirist. His debut novel In the Country of Men was shortlisted for the 2006 Man Booker Prize, and his memoir of the search for his father, The Return, won the 2017 Pulitzer Prize for Biography or Autobiography and several other awards.
Matar's essays have appeared in The New Yorker, The Guardian, The New York Times, and many other publications. He has also written several other novels.
Net Worth and Salary
Estimating Hisham Matar's net worth in 2025, it is believed to be between $1 million and $5 million. His earnings stem from various sources, including book sales, speaking engagements, and literary awards. As a respected author, Matar's work has certainly solidified his financial standing while also allowing him to engage in various literary projects.
Career, Business, and Investments
Hisham Matar's literary career began in the early 2000s and has evolved over the years. Known for his poignant prose and ability to evoke deep emotions, his books have been published in over 30 languages. Matar has also served in various capacities such as a cultural ambassador and speaker, further expanding his influence. Though he has not publicly disclosed specific business investments, his literary career continues to flourish, contributing to his reputation and earnings.
Social Network
Matar maintains a modest presence on social media, engaging with his readers and fans primarily through platforms such as Twitter and Instagram. He shares insights into his writing process, updates on new works, and thoughtful reflections on contemporary issues. However, he typically avoids the excesses of social media stardom, focusing instead on meaningful conversations and connections within the literary community.
Education
Hisham Matar is well-educated, holding a degree in Architecture from the University of Washington. His academic background has enriched his writing style, allowing him to weave intricate narratives that reflect on complex themes. Matar’s education has equipped him with keen observational skills, vividly captured in his writing.
After starting off in a public school in Cairo, Matar continued his schooling at Cairo American College from the age of 12. He did not enjoy his schooling there, and his academic achievements plunged compared with his time in Libyan and Egyptian public schools.
He struggled with learning English, until he discovered a love for Billie Holiday, and also felt no affinity for his fellow students, most of whom were the offspring of American diplomats and military personnel.
