A Journey through Time: The Evolution of the Book

The book, a constant companion throughout human history, has mirrored the cultural, social, and technological shifts of each era.from ancient clay tablets to modern e-readers, its form has continuously evolved, yet its core purpose – to disseminate knowlege, preserve stories, and foster critical thought – remains unchanged. In the 21st century, the rise of digital formats, commonly known as e-books, has broadened access to reading and expanded its possibilities, marking a important chapter in this ongoing evolution.

Ancient Origins: Laying the Foundation for Written Interaction

The earliest attempts to record symbols on portable objects can be traced back to the Sumerians, who inhabited southern Mesopotamia around 3500 BCE. This civilization developed a cuneiform writing system, meticulously inscribed on clay tablets.Later, the Egyptians created papyrus from the plant of the same name, offering a lighter and more portable medium, giving rise to scrolls that foreshadowed the modern book format.

The BookS Enduring Impact on Society

Throughout the centuries, books have served as more than just storytellers.They have documented knowledge, preserved collective memory, and promoted critical thinking. Their importance has been pivotal in the growth of societies and in the expansion of individual and collective consciousness. According to a recent UNESCO report, literacy rates worldwide have steadily increased, highlighting the continued importance of books and reading in global development.

“Reading is essential for navigating the complexities of the modern world and for participating fully in civic life.”

UNESCO Global Education Monitoring Report, 2024

Spotlight on Literary Celebrations: Bogotá International Book Fair (FILBo)

Events like the Bogotá International Book Fair (FILBo) serve as vital platforms to celebrate the cultural importance of books. the 2024 edition, which commenced on April 25th, is set to conclude this Sunday, May 11th, offering a diverse program catering to a wide range of audiences.

Featured Events at FILBo

Several noteworthy activities are scheduled for today. At 12:30 PM, author Eddie White will be signing copies of his book, eye broth: 100 sayings and Colombian words, accompanied by personalized illustrations. Later, at 2:30 PM, the South-Colombian University publishing house will present a new publication, with the authors present to share their insights and engage in a dialog with the audience about the text’s relevance.

Mother’s Day at FILBo: A Family Affair

The closing of FILBo coincides with Mother’s Day, making it an ideal opportunity for a family outing. The schedule includes a reading club geared towards mothers and babies at 10:00 AM, followed by a children’s workshop at 2:30 PM focusing on twenty Latin American virgins, designed for children and adults aged six and above.To conclude the day, at 4:00 PM, authors Margarita Cuéllar Varona, Nobara Hayakawa, and Laura Ortíz Gómez will discuss representations of motherhood in contemporary literature with their editor.