Tacoronte Historical Novel Festival Explores Medieval Japan, Jane Austen Nov 7-16

The Tacoronte Historical Novel Festival is set to explore medieval Japan from November 7 to 16. This fifth edition of the literary event will take place at the Casa de la Cultura, Plaza del Cristo, and Auditorio Capitol. It was officially launched on Wednesday by Mayor Sandra Izquierdo, Tenerife Culture Councilor José Carlos Acha, executive director Pedro Mérida, and artistic co-director Eduardo García Rojas.

Starting next week, the festival will take visitors on a journey to the land of the rising sun, focusing on a period that has inspired many popular historical novels. This section will feature two well-known authors: David B. Gil, who has won national awards for his novels set in feudal Japan, and Sergio Vega, known for his detailed historical settings and his ability to connect the spirit of bushido (the samurai code) with modern storytelling.

The festival will also celebrate the 250th birthday of British author Jane Austen (1775-1817). Writer Espido Freire will share her modern views on why Austen's work is still important today. Austen, famous for her clever stories and sharp observations of society, will be a central theme. Activities will explore the role of women in literature and history, and how they challenged conventions.

Other notable Spanish authors joining the festival include Jorge Molist, Emma Lira, and Fermina Cañaveras. They will take part in discussions, give presentations, and meet readers, sharing their diverse experiences and styles within the historical genre.

This year's honored author is Luis Zueco. As a novelist and historian, his work has greatly helped to revive interest in historical fiction in Spain, combining careful research, grand storytelling, and a modern understanding of the past.

The festival will also include historical comics, featuring authors Carolina Corvillo and Noelia Vega, who wrote "Ana, la princesa de Éboli." Local talent from the Canary Islands is also a key part of the event. Authors like José Zoilo, Víctor Conde, Antonio Marrero, Luis Castañeda, Miguel Ángel Ortega, and Manuel Jiménez will share their unique perspectives on the past from the islands.

Beyond books, the "Live Chronicles" event in the Plaza del Cristo will feature 19th-century dances by the Tacoronte Dance School, with writer Espido Freire narrating.

The festival will bring feudal Japan to life with samurai battle reenactments by Bujinkan Dojo. Meanwhile, the Cero Culture Association of Úbeda and the Recon 25 group will transport visitors to the 20th century with two World War II reenactments.

The festival also includes films, exhibitions, theater, and both role-playing and board games. You can find the full program on the festival's website: www.tacorontehistorica.es.

Graphic artist Guillermo de la Peña designed this year's festival poster. His artwork captures the festival's spirit and its themes, blending modern art with historical and literary elements.