In the vast world of Best Sellers, where thousands of titles compete for attention, publishing young authors often seems nearly impossible. Yet Manu Ortiz, Andrea Penalva, Virginia Buedo, and Marina Pérez prove that a novel, a fairy tale, or a children’s book can carry a name and a story all the way to readers’ hands, even from a city like Alicante, far from Madrid or Barcelona’s big publishing centers.
“The rules have changed; you can edit it yourself,” says Manu Ortiz. His fantasy novel The Saints offers a new voice this year, published by the independent Cerbero imprint. It explores themes of death, love, and romance in a way that feels intimate and urgent.
“There are many publications, but it remains hard to tell whether a work is well written or compelling,” notes Marina Pérez. Pérez, known for illustrated children’s stories, draws on Alicante’s legends and provincial traditions to anchor her narratives in a vivid sense of place.
“Publishing is easy; the hard part today is getting read. Moving from a circle of family and friends to a broader audience is a real challenge,” adds Andrea Penalva. Penalva’s novel Searching the World weaves grief and communication through science fiction, complemented by a full soundtrack and a Spotify playlist to accompany the reader’s journey.
This is another rising talent from Alicante. The Internet has shifted how authors publish and reach readers, stretching beyond traditional gatekeepers.
“Before, living in a larger city opened more doors; today, the Internet brings readers and opportunities close by, even for those who feel isolated,” explains Virginia Buedo. She is the author of In the Shadow of My Shadow and serves as a selector for several story anthologies, helping to spotlight new voices.
Digital technology has also redefined how writers connect with readers. Within social networks, authors can share their work instantly, forming communities that cross geographic distances and open the door to publishing opportunities without the traditional hurdles.
“In Alicante there are people who organize events and venues for readers, and it matters to know their work because it concerns us writers, but also every citizen,” says Buedo.
Youth literacy
There is a growing belief that people under thirty may not read as much, yet the reality is shifting. More titles are published than ever before, and digital books and audiobooks are creating fresh industries. Platforms like Read and Wattpad gather thousands of stories from professionals and amateurs, turning many into physical books through new printing advances.
Ortiz argues that treating young readers as a single group is a mistake. The demand for diverse voices and fresh storytelling styles is higher than ever, and the market is responding with a wider array of formats and genres.
Penalva adds that standards in what is considered valuable reading are evolving. The debate centers on balancing what many readers cherish with what critics or scholars deem worth preserving. The landscape is broadening, and readers now have more pathways to discover compelling stories beyond traditional channels.