Nafija Sarajlić

First female Bosnian prose writer, with 23 short stories published between 1912 and 1918. One of five daughters, her father Avdija Hadžikarić did not hesitate to educate his female children, an unusual act among Muslims in the 19th century. His five daughters were educated in Sarajevo to become teachers in difficult circumstances. Nafija’s father was discriminated against, not being able enter the Baščaršija for months without being confronted about it or having rocks thrown at him. Nafija worked for three years as an elementary school teacher. Her work covered multiple topics and social issues of the time: the displacement of Bosniaks during World War I, superstition, poverty, and social backwardness.