Are you in Edinburgh and would like to celebrate one of Catalonia’s most popular holidays? “LOOK, A BOOK!” is a literary event organised by the association Rosa d’Edimburg that brings the spirit of the Diada de Sant Jordi (St. George’s Day) to the city, a festivity where people exchange books and roses as a token of appreciation.
Inspired by the legend of a rose that grew from the blood of a dragon defeated by a sainted knight to save a princess, celebrating Sant Jordi dates back to the 15th Century, when men would give a rose to their loved ones on the day. The books are a more recent addition, an initiative introduced by the Valencian writer and editor Vicente Clavel in the 20th Century, who organised a book fair on the day, commemorating the death anniversaries of legendary writers William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes.
“LOOK, A BOOK!” will run over two days:
- Tuesday, 23rd of April, different locations. Five different bookshops (The Fruitmarket Gallery, Golden Hare Books, The Edinburgh Bookshop, Typewronger Books and Lighthouse Bookshop) will give a rose to readers who buy a book. Additionally, the first two bookstores will host special events, such as a poetry reading, a participatory floral exchange and a film screening. Find more information and times here.
- Saturday, 27th of April, Tolbooth Market. There will be a book fair at the market, along with an illustration workshop, poetry readings (invited authors include: Anna Aguilar, Júlia Sardà, Anna Crowe and Helena Fornells), DJ’s and activities for children. Find more information on the activities here.
Don't miss the chance to experience all the magic surrounding Sant Jordi in the gorgeous city of Edinburgh!
