Valencian Book Fair
Dragon slaying and books
Apr 23
It’s all happening today.
Firstly, it’s St. George’s Day, who is the patron saint of England, and of Catalonia and Aragon in Spain (and of a host of other European countries, it appears that slaying dragons really scores you a lot of points: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St_George%27s_Day).
And as if that weren’t enough, since 1995 the 23rd of April has been World Book and Copyright Day (as proclaimed by UNESCO). The date was chosen because three great writers died on 23rd April 1616: William Shakespeare (who was also born on 23rd April), Miguel Cervantes and Inca Garcilaso de la Vega. However, UNESCO can’t claim the idea was originally theirs. Giving a rose away with every book sold on the 23rd of April has long been a tradition in Catalonia. This date has been Book Day in Spain since 1930 and in 1964 it officially became Book Day for all Spanish and Portuguese speaking countries.
All book lovers at Route 66 Language School can get their fix at the 41st annual Valencia Book Fair which is on until 2nd May in the Jardines de Viveros. Among the many activities and exhibitions on offer, visitors can get books signed by their authors and attend readings and workshops.
For the full programme of events, check out the Book Fair website: http://www.firallibre.com
THE 39TH VALENCIAN BOOK FAIR
May 7
The 24 of April marks the 39th edition of the book fair, a much anticipated day for lovers of literature.
Since 1969, the Valencian professional association of booksellers has been responsible for organizing this fair, in collaboration with publishers, distributors and various institutions. Organized by the booksellers of Valencia, the contest also receives the support of the Valencian government, Valencia City Hall with its appointed representatives and works in close collaboration with the association of publishers from Valencia.
In recent years, the world of publishing has suffered notable transformations, due to new technology and the evolution of consumer preference. In light of these changes, the book fair has been consistently evolving to adapt itself to the new interest of its attendees, establishing itself as an event of primary importance in the scope of Valencian culture.
Offering literary novelty to all, the fair offers an extensive program of complimentary activities, including book presentations with author appearances, discussions, conferences, and round tables. (worth nothing) Of great importance are the events aimed at promoting the literary interest of children and youth, along with family and school group activities.
The official program of the book fair will be available as of April 10th on the event’s official webpage www.firallibre.com, as well as on www.valenciacity.es/libros, which will be updated daily with highlights from the most important events of this largely significant cultural affair.
