California Dreaming: Previewing BEA.

by Jessica Bermúdez -- Críticas, 5/15/2008 8:59:00 AM

For the past several years, the Spanish-language book market’s presence at BookExpo America (BEA) has grown in scope, and this year’s event in the Los Angeles Convention Center is no exception. Most of the discussions related to the Latino book market will again be organized by the Association of American Publishers’ (AAP) Publishing Latino Voices for America (PLVA). Here are the events you shouldn’t miss.

Friday, May 30
What America’s Latino Voices Are Reading…And Why (2:30–3:15 p.m. Room 404B)
A panel including educators, booksellers, librarians, and community organizers will discuss their efforts to educate, promote, and reach out to Hispanic readers. Panelists will also reflect on what the Hispanic community reads and why.

Children’s Books for Latino: Voices of the Future (3:15–4:15 p.m. Room 404B)
In celebration of Latino Books Month, the PLVA has put together a panel of renowned authors to share with industry professionals the inspiration for reaching out to booklovers of all ages. Oscar Hijuelos, author of Dark Dude (Simon & Schuster), Monica Brown, author of Pele, King of Soccer (Rayo/HarperCollins), and Cheech Marin, author of Captain Cheech (HarperCollins), will discuss their upcoming children’s/young adult titles of interest to younger Latino audiences. Open to all BEA registrants.

Latino Author Voices Live (4:15–5:15 p.m. Room 404B)
Librarians and booksellers will hear from Latino authors who will share the story behind their upcoming works. A book signing will follow. Authors include Gustavo Arellano, author of Orange County: I’ve Been Taking Notes (Scribner); Cecilia Samartin, author of Tarnished Beauty (Atria); and David Iglesias, author of In Justice (John Wiley & Sons). Open to all BEA registrants.