Dia Internacional del Libro

If you’re in Uruguay, be sure to visit the Tristán Narvaja street market on Sunday. This vibrant market features numerous book stalls and vendors selling a wide variety of books.

Additionally, don’t miss the Café Brasileiro in Ciudad Vieja, a historic spot where renowned writers like Mario Benedetti and Juan Carlos Onetti found inspiration. Enjoy the atmosphere that once fueled their creativity!

5 Uruguayan Books to Fall in Love with Spanish

Every April 23rd, we celebrate El Día Internacional del Libro, honoring the power of reading, literature, and the authors who help us discover new worlds through their words.

We encourage students to read Spanish books, as it's one of the most rewarding and enjoyable ways to improve your language skills, connect with the culture, and fall in love with Spanish.

To celebrate this special day, here are 5 books by Uruguayan authors that will not only help you practice Spanish but also offer insight into Uruguay’s identity, history, and heart.

1. "La tregua" – Mario Benedetti

A true classic of River Plate literature, this novel is written as a diary and tells the story of Martín Santomé, a middle-aged man stuck in routine until a young woman unexpectedly changes his life. With accessible yet profound language, "La tregua" is perfect for intermediate to advanced Spanish learners and serves as a great introduction to Benedetti’s work.

2. "Los lentes dorados" – Carolina Bello

This beautifully written novel explores identity, memory, and the inner lives of ordinary people. Bello, part of a new wave of Uruguayan writers, crafts prose that is both accessible and poetic. This book is ideal for language learners seeking relatable, character-driven fiction with a modern urban vibe.

3. "El discurso vacío" – Mario Levrero

Levrero is one of Uruguay’s most original voices. "El discurso vacío" is a diary of writing exercises that blend personal reflection, humor, and everyday philosophy. It's perfect for advanced learners interested in experimental storytelling and contemporary Uruguayan literature.

4. "Febrero" – Idea Vilariño

If you love poetry, you'll appreciate Idea Vilariño. A member of the iconic “Generation of '45,” her poetry is filled with intense emotion, often centered on love and heartbreak. Her concise, raw style provides a deeply moving experience for intermediate and advanced learners.

5. "Las flores" – Gustavo Espinosa

Espinosa combines dark humor with a raw depiction of provincial life in Uruguay. In "Las flores," he narrates the story of a man returning to his hometown, uncovering personal and collective memories. This compelling, slightly surreal narrative is perfect for readers who enjoy literary fiction with an edge.

Dive into these books and improve your Spanish while discovering the heart of Uruguay through its literature!