MEDIA WATCH: Book Fair Breaking a Panama Myth

Hoy Por Hoy La Prensa Aug 20

THE PANAMA  International Book Fair has become one of the most important cultural events in the country and in very short time reached fourth place in publishing events in Latin America.

 With over 100 thousand titles available, this meeting breaks the myths that existed that the Panamanians do not read, and that the books had no place in our mercantile society. Nothing further away from reality. The Panamanians read poured, from high literature to self-help books in search of meaning and purpose of life. Thanks to the leadership of civil society, especially the Panamanian Chamber of Books, and hundreds of authors, cultural promoters, publishers and thousands of readers, this event is the compelling meeting point of literature in Panama. People who do not read and write are destined to be forgotten. This fair should have all the supports and financial incentives that, for example, carnivals or trade shows receive, to transform society and turn Panama into a Republic of culture, in which books can make us truly free.  [The book Fair is at Atlapa, August 19-24]