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The tragic loss of a cherished colleague, Hisham al-Hashimi, propelled the author into the realm of standup comedy, despite jeopardizing her established career in international security. The bond with Hisham, known for his lighthearted spirit and penchant for dark humor, revealed a new avenue for the author to explore.

### Rediscovering Laughter Amidst Adversity

– After surviving tribulations in Iraq, the author found solace in comedy
– Embracing the joy and humor found in everyday life, even in the darkest of times

The untimely death of Hisham, a victim of targeted violence due to his fearless journalism, forced the author to confront the risks associated with her work in dangerous territories. Amidst the chaos and tragedies of Iraq, comedy emerged as a coping mechanism, allowing the author to navigate the complexities of her profession with a newfound perspective and humor.

### Embracing a Different Path

– Delving into standup comedy courses in London as a form of self-expression
– Transforming personal experiences into comedic anecdotes and material

The journey into standup comedy unveiled a world of self-expression and storytelling for the author, bridging the gap between her serious work in international security and her love for humor. Through the lens of comedy, the author discovered a unique platform to share her experiences and evoke laughter from audiences, highlighting the absurdities of bureaucracy, foreign interventions, and personal anecdotes from her time in Iraq.

### The Power of Comedy in Writing

– Integrating humor into a novel as a means of storytelling and engagement
– Overcoming doubts about the integration of comedy in literary works

Despite initial reservations about incorporating comedy into her writing, the author’s novel became a reflection of her journey, blending humor with poignant storytelling, resulting in unexpected resonance across diverse audiences. The fusion of comedy and storytelling not only entertained but also provided a fresh perspective on complex issues, such as the plight of IS brides, garnering unexpected praise and engagement from readers.

### Embracing a New Chapter

– Transitioning from standup comedy training to book tours and literary events
– Being recognized for comedic skills in unexpected platforms, such as podcasts and radio shows

The author’s foray into standup comedy not only enriched her novel but also opened doors to new opportunities, such as podcast interviews with favorite comedians and appearances on renowned comedy shows. Through interactions with readers and audiences, the author found a fulfilling balance between humor, storytelling, and engagement, creating a unique blend of entertainment and introspection.

In essence, the journey from tragedy to comedy symbolizes a transformation of loss and adversity into resilience and creativity, showcasing the enduring power of laughter amidst life’s challenges. By embracing humor as a tool for self-expression and connection, the author discovered a newfound sense of purpose and fulfillment in the world of comedy and storytelling.