Peruvian First Lady Maribel Diaz has presented the 9th children's and youth's literature award
(Steamboat) to Antonio Gazis, Peruvian author of "Los Elefantes de Borasino" (Borasino's Elephants).
The children's tale promotes respect for the differences, as it tells the story of a disabled child and invites people to reflect on society's role concerning inclusion.
During her speech, the wife of President Martin Vizcarra underlined the importance of reading since an early age.
"As an early
education teacher, I have witnessed the valuable effect that reading has on
boys and girls, by awakening the power of their imagination, improving their speech, increasing their vocabulary, as well as stimulating their focus and assessment skills," she expressed.
Likewise, the First Lady commended all the authors who participated and stressed the importance of continuing to boost the creation of reading material that promotes reflection and raises awareness on the reality of the people who are the present and the future of the Inca country.
The award was organized by Santa Maria Foundation, with the support of Peru's National Library and Spain's Cultural Center.
El
Barco de Vapor prize has become one of the most important awards in the field of children's books.
(END) NDP/CVC/DTK/MVB