Awards in the Valencian Book Scene
This Elche-based Ali i Truc bookstore has earned recognition from regional authorities for its long-standing contribution to the reading culture. Founded in 1977, the shop played a pivotal role in bringing books and reading resources to the city at a time when such amenities were scarce. The award from the Ministry of Culture acknowledged its impact on spreading reading throughout Elche. A separate highlight named Tirant lo Blanch Online from Valencia as the most innovative project in the sector.
In addition, honors were given in 2022 to outstanding published works from Barlin Project, Kalosini, and Andana publishing houses, highlighting a vibrant publishing landscape in the region.
Awards
The Ministry issued a formal statement announcing the winners, recognizing progress and innovation in promoting reading, including prizes for library staff who foster reading in the Valencian Community.
“Elche didn’t read for a long time and it paid the price: Half the population doesn’t read at all”
Among the notable recognitions, the best edited book went to the Ruta gráfica, a project that captures the voice of Valencia through the Barlin Project, authored by Moy Santana and Antonio J. Albertos. The best picture book was L’arca de No-és, published by Kalosini and created by Ana-Luisa Ramírez and Carmela Mayor.
Other notable awards included the best edited comic, awarded to Un os al Marroc from Andana Editorial, with Lluc Silvestre and Mr. Ed as authors. Litera Libros earned two distinctions: best edited children’s book by Iñigo Astiz and Maite for Joemes per pugar, and Prou! — a feminist self-defense guide for adolescents by María Kronsky and Marion Le Muzic.
Children’s and youth literature boosts bookstore optimism
The awards also recognize leadership in youth and children’s publishing, noting that sales stay buoyant when communities invest in books and reading initiatives. The Llíria Municipal Public Libraries Network received recognition for its ongoing work by library staff in promoting reading across the region.
Delivery and Celebration
Valencia Book Day is celebrated on November 20, traditionally at the Monastery of San Miguel de los Reyes in Valencia. The awards celebrate the contributions of publishing houses in the Valencian Community and honor linguistic and cultural diversity, including support for official languages. The event also spotlights initiatives that improve the book industry and encourage reading habits through both technical and artistic avenues.
Programs and activities that advance book dissemination are encouraged, highlighting the role of publishers, libraries, and bookstores in fostering a vibrant reading culture across the region.