Books and Roses 2008

It’s a mad, mad day on April 19 as Instituto Cervantes lets out the books at the Dia Internacional del Libro (International Book Day) celebrations. From 10 a.m. to 12 midnight, bibliophiles can get their hands on a wide selection of books — children and young adult titles, dictionaries, novels and non-fiction titles — at the Dia del Libro book fair!

Brand new books are available at even madder prices, going for as low as P20. Popular authors will be around to sign copies of their latest works.

And to make the deal even sweeter, Instituto Cervantes gives a red rose with every purchase. The idea of this celebration originated in Catalonia, Spain where on St. George’s Day, males and females traditionally exchange a rose for the gift of a book. The tradition inspired a Spanish delegation to propose to the UNESCO a resolution requesting the proclamation of April 23 of each year as “World Day of the Book”.

“A good book is the purest essence of the human soul,” says Scottish historian Thomas Carlyle. Books are unique tools for expression, education and communication, essential for the work of political decision makers, economic operators and civil society stakeholders. It is but fitting to raise the people’s awareness of giving importance to the heritage that emanates from the creations of the human spirit and their origins. Furthermore, books concretize freedom of expression and demonstrate cultural diversity; therefore it is important to safeguard and protect these man-made pieces of art.

During this year’s celebration, Anvil Publishing House, A Different Bookstore, and Powerbooks will be giving a 20% discount off all books being sold. There will also be film showings on the Spanish culture, a dance concert featuring renowned choreographer and dance master, Myra Beltran, as well as free Spanish lessons and guided tours. Spanish language courses are also offered at a 15% discount (valid for certain schedules and limited slots) for both old and new students. In the afternoon, there will be a two-hour non-stop poetry-reading session called Cadena de Poemas. Participants can bring and read the poem of their choice, in any language, and read it out loud. Poem readers will receive a gift from Instituto Cervantes.

Dia del Libro is presented by Instituto Cervantes, in collaboration with the Embassy of Spain, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Fundacion Miguel Hernandez and Manila’s leading bookstores and Spanish restaurants. Catch the festivities this Saturday, April 19, 2008, from 10 am until midnight at 855 T.M. Kalaw St., Ermita, Manila. For more information, please call Instituto Cervantes at 5261482 or log on to www.manila. cervantes.es