Dia Internacional del Libro
5 Uruguayan Books to Fall in Love with Spanish
Every April 23rd, we celebrate the El Dia internacional del libro, a date that honors the power of reading, literature, and the authors who, through their words, help us discover new worlds.
We encourage students to read Spanish books as we believe that reading in the language you're learning is one of the most rewarding and fun ways to improve your skills, connect with the culture, and fall in love with the language.
To celebrate this special day, here are 5 books by Uruguayan authors that will not only help you practice Spanish but also give you insight into Uruguay’s identity, history, and heart.
1. "La tregua" – Mario Benedetti
A true classic of River Plate literature. Written as a diary, this novel tells the story of Martín Santomé, a middle-aged man stuck in routine until a young woman unexpectedly changes his life. With accessible yet profound language, "La tregua"is perfect for intermediate to advanced Spanish learners. Plus, it's a great introduction to Benedetti’s work.
2. "Los lentes dorados" – Carolina Bello
A beautifully written novel that explores identity, memory, and the inner lives of ordinary people. Bello is part of a new wave of Uruguayan writers and her prose is both accessible and poetic. This novel is great for language learners looking for relatable, character-driven fiction with a modern urban vibe.
3. "El discurso vacío" – Mario Levrero
Levrero is one of Uruguay’s most original voices. "El discurso vacío" is a diary of writing exercises, blending personal reflection, humor, and everyday philosophy. It’s ideal for advanced learners who want to explore experimental storytelling and dive deeper into contemporary Uruguayan literature.
4. "Febrero" – Idea Vilariño
If you love poetry, you’ll love Idea Vilariño. She was part of the iconic “Generation of '45” and her poetry is filled with intense emotion, often centered on love and heartbreak. Her style is concise, raw, and powerful. Reading her in Spanish offers a deeply moving experience for intermediate and advanced learners.
5. "Las flores" – Gustavo Espinosa
Espinosa's work often combines dark humor with a raw look at provincial life in Uruguay. In "Las flores", he tells the story of a man returning to his hometown, uncovering personal and collective memories. A compelling, slightly surreal narrative perfect for readers who enjoy literary fiction with an edge.
If you are in Uruguay, don’t miss the street market “Tristan Narvaja” on Sunday. You will find several books stores and street spots selling books.
Also visit the Café Brasileiro is Ciudad vieja, where writers like Benedetti, Onetti went to write.
