Healthy Amusement

Jorge Milanes

My work is particularly interesting.  I’m in charge of the strategic design, execution and review of literary promotion on the radio, as well as book presentations and gatherings, poetry readings, tributes to writers, competitions between radio listeners and other literary activities.

These are some of the aspects of my work, but there is one that summarizes them all: The Cuba International Book Fair, a huge cultural event of mass proportions.  It takes place annually in February.

Every year millions of Cubans -at least those who are called bookworms- come to the fair in hope of finding something new at this fifteen-day event of healthy and diverse cultural programs.  But not only are books bought, in addition people can enjoy literature that is discussed or read by its authors or editors, and the evenings come to a close with concerts.

The publishers of children’s books -in collaboration with children themselves- organize activities that are so attractive that they lure other institutions to become involved in their masquerade parties, treasure hunts, children’s story readings, papier-mache competitions, the staging of classic stories and the giving out of candy and treats – which can never be overlooked.

These activities are enjoyed not only by kids, but also by adults, who are very resourceful and imaginative when it comes to providing amusement.

For all this, there have already begun calls and messages to a host of media sources for them to become accredited for the 2010 fair.  They are requested to be included on the program of interviews of publishers and authors who will present their books at an event prior to the actual fair.

In addition to the participation of national authors, we will have the presence of authors from foreign countries, among them Russia (this year’s guest of honor), which will bring a large delegation made up of authors, musicians, singers, painters and other artists. They will all join with the Cuban participants in the biggest cultural festival of the country.  Without a doubt it’s a good alternative for anyone looking for a healthy good time.