**Salman Rushdie Opens Up About New Novel, His First Since Near-Fatal Attack**

NEW YORK (AP) - Author Salman Rushdie is back, and he's ready to talk. In a new interview, the celebrated writer discusses his upcoming novel, marking his return to fiction after surviving a horrific attack that nearly took his life. This highly anticipated release is his first work of fiction since that devastating event, and Rushdie is opening up about the journey back to the page.

The world watched in horror as Rushdie was brutally attacked in August 2022, an act that left him with severe injuries and a long road to recovery. Now, with his new book on the horizon, he's sharing insights into the creative process and the personal significance of this project.

While details of the plot remain tightly under wraps, anticipation is building among literary circles and his dedicated fanbase. This new novel represents more than just a return to writing; it symbolizes resilience, courage, and the unwavering power of artistic expression in the face of adversity.

Rushdie's willingness to speak about his experiences, both the trauma he endured and the creative rebirth that followed, offers a rare glimpse into the mind of a literary giant. His story is one of survival, and his decision to channel that experience into his art is a testament to his enduring spirit.

The interview promises to delve into the motivations behind the book, exploring the themes that resonate with Rushdie in this new chapter of his life. He'll discuss the challenges he faced in returning to writing and the importance of storytelling as a means of healing and understanding.

For readers around the globe, this new novel is not just a book; it's a symbol of hope and a reminder that even in the darkest of times, the human spirit can endure and create. The upcoming release is poised to be a major literary event, and Rushdie's reflections on his journey are sure to captivate audiences worldwide.