In a celebration of literary connection, the Mexican Embassy in Vietnam and the Department of Spanish Language at Hanoi University are set to launch the Vietnamese edition of "Cuốn sách hoang dã" (The Wild Book) by acclaimed author Juan Villoro. This event marks a significant milestone, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Mexico, which began on May 19, 1975.
"Cuốn sách hoang dã" has already made waves in the literary world, selling nearly 2 million copies in Mexico alone. It has been translated into multiple languages, adapted into Braille for the visually impaired, and is currently in the process of being developed into a film. The story revolves around a 13-year-old boy named Juan, who faces a tumultuous summer filled with personal challenges. He experiences nightmares, grapples with his parents' divorce, and must leave the comfort of his home and friends to live with his eccentric Uncle Tito, who resides in a house overflowing with books.
Juan's initially dull and lonely summer takes a turn for the extraordinary as he discovers that the books in his uncle's house are anything but ordinary. They move, change, and even steal content from one another when no one is watching. Juan learns of a mysterious book that has never been read, written, or published, titled "Cuốn sách hoang dã." With the help of new friends—Catalina, Uncle Tito, Eufrosia, and three cats—Juan embarks on a quest to find this special book, believed to be accessible only to those deemed worthy.
The upcoming launch event, scheduled for 9:30 AM on May 9, 2025, at Room 102, Building C, Hanoi University, is expected to be a highlight of the anniversary celebrations. Ambassador Alejandro Negrin Muñoz emphasized that the book launch is among the most significant events commemorating the 50-year diplomatic relationship, providing an opportunity for readers to engage with a renowned piece of Mexican literature.
During the event, translator Lê Mạnh Thắng, along with Ms. Nguyễn Thùy Trang, Deputy Head of the Spanish Language Department at Hanoi University, and Mr. Nguyễn Xuân Minh, Director of Planning and Copyright at Nhã Nam Culture and Communication Joint Stock Company, will discuss the book and the Spanish language, catering to the growing interest in Spanish culture in Vietnam.
Juan Villoro expressed his joy at the book's translation into Vietnamese, stating, "I am fortunate that this work has been translated into many languages, including Braille for the visually impaired. Now, I am incredibly happy that this journey has reached Vietnam. Since I was a child, I have known about the glorious history of this great country and have always dreamed of the opportunity to set foot here."
The launch of "Cuốn sách hoang dã" not only celebrates a literary achievement but also highlights the rich cultural exchange between Mexico and Vietnam. Mr. Nguyễn Xuân Minh remarked, "Besides great writers known to Vietnamese readers like Carlos Fuentes and Octavio Paz, Mexican literature has many outstanding authors, such as Juan Villoro. Mexican literature deserves to be introduced more in Vietnam. 'Cuốn sách hoang dã' is a magical adventure about books, libraries, and the power of reading; it is a beautiful work that honors the power of words and inspires a love for reading that every reader can enjoy."
The relationship between Mexico and Vietnam has blossomed over the years, with significant developments in both economic and cultural spheres, as reported by La Jornada. The upcoming book launch serves as a testament to the enduring ties between the two nations and the shared appreciation for literature and education.
As excitement builds for the launch of "Cuốn sách hoang dã," it promises to not only captivate young readers but also foster a deeper understanding of the importance of reading and imagination. The story's themes of adventure and discovery resonate with the universal experiences of childhood, making it a poignant addition to the literary landscape.
For those interested in exploring the magic of books and the adventures they can inspire, the launch event on May 9 is an unmissable opportunity to engage with a work that has touched the hearts of many around the globe.
