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NARRATING HISTORY: BRIDGES BETWEEN SPAIN AND SOUTH AFRICA
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The author
Javier Moro (Madrid, 1955) is a popular Spanish writer and journalist known for his non-fiction novels and historical fiction. Thanks to his father’s job (an airline executive), he traveled from a young age across Africa, Asia, and America—experiences that deeply influenced his work. He studied at a French Lycée and later pursued History and Anthropology at the University of Jussieu.
His working method involves extensive research, often lasting for years. During this phase, Moro always travels to the locations where the events he wants to narrate took place, gathering as much information as possible about the characters.
Once he has completed this meticulous and thorough research, he writes his novels in a style that turns long, tough, and complex stories into something truly engaging and passionate. Readers of his books become immersed in the idea that these movie-worthy stories actually happened, as Moro never chooses a trivial story to tell. His characters are always key figures in a country’s history and politics at a given time. Some examples include the first king (and constitutionalist) of a newly independent Brazil, an Indian prime minister of Italian origin, and a nurse who traveled halfway around the world to deliver the smallpox vaccine, among others.
All this has earned him several literary awards: the Christopher Award in 2003 for Midnight in Bhopal, the Premio Planeta in 2011 for The Empire is You, and the Premio Primavera de Novela in 2018 for My Sin.
In addition to his work as a writer, he has contributed to both national and international media and has participated in the production of films based on literary works.
His work: some of his books are...
El Imperio Eres Tú by is a captivating historical novel about Pedro I of Brazil, blending romance, politics, and adventure. It vividly portrays his rise to power, personal struggles, and the birth of an empire. A compelling read for history lovers. For this book, Javier Moro received the Premio Planeta, and it is considered his most significant work.
One of Moro's most current books, it tells the story of Leopoldo López, a Venezuelan politician who stood up to Maduro's dictatorial regime. He was forced to choose between awaiting his arrest and going to prison for defending his ideals or fleeing his country. He chose the former and became a hero, a symbol much like Mandela is for South Africa.
One of Moro's most controversial books, it tells the story of Sonia Gandhi, who, despite her Italian origins, became Prime Minister of India—just like her mother-in-law and husband before her, both of whom were assassinated.
Its protagonist is the Spanish actress Conchita Montenegro, who, in 1930, at just 19 years old, arrived in Hollywood.
Thanks to her beauty, intelligence, personality, and determination, the young starlet secured a place among the top celebrities of the time. Her extraordinary gaze captivated Leslie Howard, one of the most famous actors of the era—a married man twice her age. The lovers lived their romance amidst dreamy parties, triumphant premieres, horseback rides, and plane trips along the California coast, caught between passion and deception.
Thirteen years later, their love story took an unexpected turn when they met again in Madrid, unknowingly influencing the course of World War II.
The event
The Department of Modern Languages from Stellenbosch University is pleased to invite everyone interested to the literary event held in honor of the visit of the renowned writer Javier Moro.
📅 Date: April 24
📍 Location: Neelsie Cinema, Stellenbosch University
⏰ Time: 5:30 PM
Moderated by Beatriz Villacañas (Spanish lecturer) and Catherine Du Toit (French professor), this event promises to be dynamic and interactive, offering students and the general public the opportunity to debate, ask questions, and share their thoughts with the author.
📖 Throughout the evening, excerpts from his works will be read in English, Spanish, and French, the three languages that will be spoken and used during the event.
💬 Additionally, there will be a debate with Javier Moro, followed by an open discussion with the attendees.
🥂 To wrap up the evening, we will enjoy a delicious Spanish-style aperitif, courtesy of El Picoteo, a restaurant run by Marco de Matos and Susana Vaz, linked to the Rhebokskloof Wine Estate. 👉 [@elpicoteo_atrhebokskloof]
🔹 Reserve your spot! The event is free and open to the public, but we kindly ask for your cooperation in confirming your attendance as soon as possible to help with the organization.
We look forward to seeing you there! And if you've read this far… ¡Gracias!. 😊
⬇️Please confirm your attendance ASAP⬇️
DEPARTMENT OF MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES
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