Doctor Associated with Wanda Marasco Secures Victory in Phoenix Event
In a grand ceremony held at Teatro La Fenice in Venice and broadcast live on Rai 5, hosted by Giorgia Cardinaletti, the 63rd edition of the Campiello Prize crowned a new literary champion. The novel "Facing the World with My Back" by Wanda Marasco (Neri Pozza) emerged victorious, receiving 86 votes from a jury of 300 readers (282 valid votes).
The heart-wrenching story of Ferdinando Palasciano, a 19th-century Naples doctor who spent a year in an asylum due to his delusions, served as the inspiration for Marasco's novel. The novel's soundtrack, "La cura" by Franco Battiato, was chosen to reflect Palasciano's obsession with the cure.
The second place went to "Bebelplatz" by Fabio Stassi (Sellerio), which delves into the destructive madness of the Nazis and the book burnings in Germany in the 1930s. Stassi's work, as well as that of Italian writers Emilio Salgari and Maria Volpi, was among those targeted in the book burnings. Volpi, according to Stassi, wrote against the patriarchy without realizing it.
The rebellious spirit of the proletarian Maremma in the early 20th century took centre stage in "Troncamacchioni" by Alberto Prunetti (Feltrinelli). The book tells the story of young men who deserted during World War I and later opposed Fascism. Prunetti's work also highlights the stories of the marginalized, similar to those who flee from Gaza today.
In third place was "Inverness" by Monica Pariani (Polidoro), a collection of short stories that evoke the winter and explore the unusual geometries of love and the desire to be seen and chosen. Human relationships, from friendship to love, are at the core of Pariani's work.
The Campiello Prize, created by Venetian industrialists in 1962, is a testament to their commitment to culture. It serves as a form of giving back that is not taken for granted. This year, each book was introduced by BookTokers, reflecting the Campiello's effort to engage young audiences and acknowledge the influence of book enthusiasts on TikTok.
In the spirit of recognising and celebrating the power of storytelling, the Campiello Prize continues to shine a light on the compelling narratives that resonate with readers, reminding us of the transformative potential of literature.
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