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Welcome, you are in Marca País
Welcome, you are in Marca País
Once upon a time: six Colombian children's stories worth reading
As is the diversity of Colombia, so is the diversity of its writers. We invite you to get to know the history and works of those authors who are giving people something to talk about and who are making Colombian literature recognized around the world.
Colombia, in addition to being rich in natural resources, climate, a variety of fruits and animal species, has also stood out for the talent of athletes, artists, and innovative people who carry the name of our country with pride. On this occasion, we want to pay tribute to our writers, who with their prose have brought our country to the world stage.
6 Books of Colombian Literature
Discover these 6 Colombian literature books we recommend if you want to learn more about Colombia and its writers.
1. One Hundred Years of Solitude - Gabriel García Márquez
It is probably the most important work of 20th-century Latin American literature and is the greatest exponent of magical realism that surrounds the landscapes of our country. Inspired by his hometown of Aracataca, Gabo tells the story of Macondo, a magical town where the Buendía family arrives, settles, and lives for generations. Additionally, there is a parallel between the town’s growth and that of the Buendía family.
Of interest: A Tour of Gabriel García Márquez’s Favorite Places in Colombia
2. The Wandering Tadpole, Rinrín renacuajo - Rafael Pombo
Pombo’s tales and fables have reached across the globe. He is the most important figure in children’s literature in our country. *The Wandering Tadpole* or *Rinrín renacuajo* is one of his most well-known fables, telling the story of what happens to Rinrín when he leaves home very early—resulting in an unexpected outcome.
Of interest: Five Colombian libraries that have their own story to tell
3. María - Jorge Isaacs
One of the most important romantic novels ever written, detailing with great description the landscapes of Valle del Cauca. This work is so memorable that a fragment used to appear on the old 50,000 Colombian peso bills. The story of Efraín and María takes you through a whirlwind of emotions as you turn the pages, and unlike many stories, this one doesn’t end as you might expect.
Of interest: 5 Colombian writers who have charmed the world with their words
4. Delirium - Laura Restrepo
Would you like to be transported to Colombia in the 1980s? You can do so while reading *Delirium* by Laura Restrepo. Through the story of Aguilar and Agustina, who begin to face a series of events that test their love, trust, and safety due to Agustina’s delirious state. Intriguing, seductive, mysterious, and with a narrative that blends reality and fiction, this writer is bringing modern Colombian literature to the international spotlight.
5. Satanás – Mario Mendoza
All stories and cities have bright and dark sides, and this is Mario Mendoza’s first graphic novel, in which he shows Bogotá’s dark side. This work tells the story of Campo Elías Delgado, a Vietnam War veteran who killed nearly 30 people at various locations in Bogotá. It highlights the city’s landscapes and helps readers see Colombia’s capital from a different perspective. In addition to the main story, the book follows three people: María, Andrés, and Ernesto. As the reader gets to know each character, their lives interweave into a single story that transforms Bogotá life completely.
6. Oblivion: A Memoir – Héctor Abad
Considered one of the key books of contemporary culture. This book is a biography of the author's father, physician and activist Héctor Abad Gómez. Told from the son’s perspective, it heartbreakingly depicts the country’s violence and its impact on their family. This book is a reflection on violence and the way people have been forced to abandon dreams, goals, and moments due to the violent circumstances the country has endured.
As you can see, Colombian literature is as diverse as our climate and our landscapes. Which of these have you read?
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