Renowned writers from the Republic of Moldova engaged with students from seven schools as part of the project “Book Bridges (Podul de carti): Dialogue Through Literature.” Cultural events were held in the Autonomous Territorial Unit of Gagauzia and in security zone localities on both banks of the Dniester River, giving children the opportunity to explore local literature through direct meetings with authors, IPN reports.
For many students, it was their first time meeting a writer in person. The discussions were interactive, with students preparing poetry recitals, skits, and questions for the authors. Writer Maria Pilchin captivated primary school students with her presentation of the book “Doggy.” “Meeting the author, who shares some commonalities with my hometown, gave me the chance not only to explore her ideas and creations but also to experience a sense of spiritual reconnection,” said Nadejda Pitel, an 11th-grade student at “M. Eminescu” High School in Comrat.
In addition to the meetings with authors, school libraries were enriched with book donations aimed at promoting reading and enhancing students’ access to contemporary literature.
Participating writers, including Gheorghe Budeanu, Dumitru Crudu, Irina Nechit, Iulian Filip, Maria Pilchin, Ianos Turcanu, and Arcadie Suceveanu, emphasized the importance of literature in education and personal development. Irina Nechit shared her perspective: “Literature is, I believe, the most accessible, vibrant, and wholesome means of communication. By telling students about books and the destinies of certain characters, I had the chance to engage with them face to face. These moments are rare but immensely valuable”, said the author.
Cristina Costev, a teacher at “Luceafărul” Theoretical High School in Vulcănești, highlighted the emotional impact of these encounters: “Literature can truly be a form of therapy and a way to cope with pain. Writing can be an excellent method to release thoughts and emotions. It’s fascinating how Dumitru Crudu turned a challenge like insomnia into a source of creativity.”
The “Book Bridges” project was organized by the Union of Writers of Moldova, with support from the European Union through the “Confidence-Building Measures” program implemented by UNDP. The initiative underscores the importance of literary and cultural dialogue in building bridges between communities, aiming to foster connection through art and literature.
