The Moisés Mata bookstore in Alcázar de San Juan was the venue for the launch of ‘El último latinista vivo’, the latest literary work by writer and professor Santiago Casero, published by Sloper. This much-anticipated cultural event attracted many readers, friends, and colleagues to support the author, who has spent three decades teaching Latin at IES Miguel de Cervantes in the town.
The book presents a compelling collection of stories that explore various themes and tones, showcasing characters who find themselves in absurd yet relatable situations. Among the narratives is a latinist whose uniqueness feels more like a burden, and holidaymakers anxiously awaiting the unsettling arrival of their children.
During the event, Juan Miguel Contreras, a fellow educator and friend of Casero, praised the author's innate talent for short storytelling. He described the work as “stylistically excellent, playing with ironic, sarcastic, and somewhat nostalgic tones,” commending Casero as “a great narrator of the details that highlight the absurdity of everyday situations.”
Casero explained that this collection represents a natural evolution in his writing career: “These are stories I have written over the years, some of which have won awards in various competitions, and I felt it was time for them to be published in a single volume.” He also emphasised the enduring significance of the short story genre, which, despite being often overlooked, possesses immense richness. ‘El último latinista vivo’ marks his sixth collection of stories.
Paco García-Navas, representing the local council, praised Casero's contributions both as a person and a professional, highlighting the privilege of having him in the Alcázar educational community: “You have 30 years of teaching Latin here at Cervantes and 24 recognitions and awards in your career; it is a fortune to have you as a philologist and a philosopher presenting your work.” The councillor also acknowledged the cultural dynamism of private spaces like the Moisés Mata bookstore and encouraged citizens to delve into the pages of ‘El último latinista vivo’.
