Tarek Imam's 'Cairo Model,' a compelling novel shortlisted for the prestigious 2022 International Prize for Arabic Fiction, delves into the multifaceted layers of Cairo's identity. The narrative intricately weaves a tapestry of stories, exploring the city not just as a physical space but as a living, breathing entity, constantly being shaped and reshaped. Imam masterfully uses the concept of a 'mockup' to question perceptions of reality, urban development, and the human condition within Egypt's bustling capital. Readers are invited on a thought-provoking journey that challenges conventional views of history, memory, and the future of a city often seen as the heart of the Arab world. This critically acclaimed work offers a unique and profound commentary on contemporary Egyptian society.