The artists danced to the sound of the zamacueca in front of the attentive gaze of the attendees, who were waiting to learn the details of the Lima International Book Fair (FIL Lima). This cultural event, held every year, has the mission of bringing the best of the publishing offer to people from different latitudes. The atmosphere became more and more festive as the dance music became more intense, encouraging some of those present, who could not help but move their feet to the beat of the traditional rhythms.
After silence took over the atmosphere, applause broke out and the public took the opportunity to take photographs and record. Meanwhile, others waited expectantly for the cultural director of the Peruvian Book ChamberMelissa Pérez García will take the floor to reveal the details of the cultural event that captures the attention of people of all ages.
Before the dance cast of the Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia performed on the auditorium stage, it had been announced that the FIL Lima theme would commemorate the 200 years of the battles of Ayacucho and Junínthe latter being held on August 6, 1824. This celebration promises to pay tribute to fundamental milestones in the history of Peru.
From then until 2024, 200 years have passed, and the board of directors of the Peruvian Book Chamber is fully aware of this anniversary. For this reason, They have decided that this year’s theme will commemorate the 200 years of the Battle of Junín, as well as that of Ayacucho, which took place on another date but in the same year. As is known, both war conflicts were decisive for the success of the Peruvian independence movement.
It is worth mentioning that the organizers of the event initially considered other themes, but finally opted for the Bicentennial of the Independence of Peru. On this particular topic, Ricardo Muguerza, president of the Peruvian Chamber of Books, spoke with Infobae Peru.
“Initially, we had Mexico as the guest country. However, due to some disagreements, we decided not to insist on its participation. Instead, we steered the theme in another direction, coinciding with the fact that August 6 was declared a holiday last year in commemoration of the Battle of Junín,” he said.
Having mentioned the above, it is pertinent to announce the cultural activities that will take place from July 19 to August 6. At the press conference it was announced that more than 800 cultural activities will be held, among which are the classic book presentations, talks and concerts. However, these will not be the only activities that will be carried out.
The 2024 Lima International Book Fair will be a refuge where our national identity will be explored, the country’s prolific cultural wealth will be exalted, and the love of reading will be fostered among future generations. This will be possible thanks to a series of activities, which will be detailed below.
The fair has announced a space dedicated exclusively to comics and graphic novels, with more than 15 exhibition stands. Attendees will be able to explore a wide range of comics, action figures and merchandise. In addition, the event will feature cultural activities related to the world of comics, including talks by authors, drawing workshops and cosplay contests.
During the event, Tribute will be paid to the prominent Peruvian poet Rossella Di PaoloThe organizers have decided to recognize his extensive career and the literary legacy he has left both nationally and internationally. With this recognition, the FIL Lima 2024 seeks to highlight the importance of Peruvian literature in the global context.
Additional activities will allow attendees to interact directly with content creators, such as Phillip Chu Joy or ‘Grillo’. In addition, attendees will be able to participate in educational events that promote the art of comics and graphic literature.
Prestigious Peruvian writers, artists and intellectuals will meet at numerous events to share their perspectives on Peruvian culture and its influence on the country’s development. This outstanding line-up includes renowned figures such as Alfredo Bryce Echenique, Jaime Bayly, Alonso Cueto, Claudia Salazar Jiménez, Rafael Dumett, Violeta Barrientos, Giovanna Pollarolo and Karina Pachecowho promise to offer sessions full of inspiration and reflection.
As for international authors, it is known that more than 50 renowned writers have been invited to attend the fair. Below, we present the names and their literary works that make up the list.
- John Boyne (Ireland): Author of the acclaimed novel The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas.
- Megan Maxwell (Spain): Author recognized for her romantic novels, whose work has achieved great popularity among young audiences.
- Andrés Oppenheimer (Argentina): Writer and journalist, columnist for The Miami Herald and host of “Oppenheimer Presenta” on CNN en Español.
- Selva Almada (Argentina): Renowned writer for works such as “Dead Girls” and “It’s Not a River,” a novel that was a finalist for the International Booker Prize.
- Santiago Posteguillo (Spain): Author of historical novels such as Africanus, the Trajan Trilogy and “Yo, Julia”, a novel that won the 2018 Planeta Prize.
- Gabriela Cabezón Cámara (Argentina): Author of the novel Las niñas del Naranjel, winner of the 2024 City of Barcelona Prize.
- Patricio Pron (Argentina): Writer awarded the Juan Rulfo Short Story Prize (2004) and the Alfaguara Novel Prize (2019).
- Agustina Bazterrica (Argentina): Author of Cadaver exquisito, a book awarded the 2017 Clarín Novel Prize.
- María Martínez (Spain): It has achieved great popularity among young audiences. Her novels explore complex emotions, family, and identity.
- Inma Rubiales (Spain): Renowned writer with more than 160 thousand followers on social media. Author of The Art of Being Us (2023).
This year, the Lima International Book Fair (FIL Lima) presents an unmissable offer for lovers of literature and culture. With 8 auditoriums with capacities ranging from 60 to 500 people, a wide variety of simultaneous activities can be developed.
FIL Lima 2024 opens its doors to a universe of literary and cultural experiences with a schedule specially designed for total enjoyment. From Monday to Sunday, from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., the public will be able to access book presentations, discussions, workshops, artistic shows, autograph signings and much more, promising days full of inspiration and learning.
To end each day with a special touch, you can enjoy star events that will take place in the main auditorium starting at 9:30 p.m.
During the press conference, the mayor of Jesús María, Jesús Galvez Olivares, announced that Residents of your district will have free entry to the event only by presenting their IDa gesture that seeks to integrate the local community in this great literary festival.
Carmen Vegas Guerrero, the new Vice Minister of Cultural Heritage and Cultural Industries, highlighted that Stand number 17 will be dedicated to independent publishers from Peru. In this space, more than 300 titles from various regions of the country will be offered. This will provide an essential platform for emerging talent and regional voices.
At another point in the press conference, Melissa Pérez García, cultural director of the Peruvian Book Chamber, said that the fair will last 19 days instead of the usual 17. This decision will allow the last day of the fair to coincide with August 6, the date that commemorates the Battle of Junín.
In addition, García pointed out that every day at 6 p.m. a special activity will be carried out to commemorate the bicentennial of Peru’s independence.
FIL Lima 2024 promises to be an event that not only celebrates literature but also honors our identity and cultural legacy. Without a doubt, an unmissable event for all those who love the written word and cultural diversity.
