Antonio Iturbe

Antonio Iturbe[1†]

Antonio González Iturbe, born on March 7, 1967, in Zaragoza, Spain, is a renowned Spanish journalist, author, professor, and academic[1†]. He has made significant contributions to the field of literature and journalism, with his works being recognized and published in multiple languages[1†].

Early Years and Education

Antonio González Iturbe was born on March 7, 1967, in Zaragoza, Spain[1†]. His family later moved to Barcelona, where Iturbe grew up in the Barceloneta neighbourhood[1†]. This early exposure to the vibrant culture and history of Barcelona would later influence his writing and journalistic pursuits.

Iturbe pursued a bachelor’s degree in journalism at the Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, where he graduated in 1991[1†]. During his university years, he balanced his studies with several jobs, including roles as a parking guard, baker, and auditor[1†]. These experiences provided him with a diverse range of perspectives and a deep understanding of the human condition, themes that are evident in his later works.

His first job as a journalist was at a local Barcelona television show, Televisió de Ciutat Vella, where he worked as a reporter[1†]. This early experience in journalism laid the foundation for his future career and honed his skills in storytelling and communication.

Career Development and Achievements

After graduating from the Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Antonio Iturbe embarked on a diverse and successful career in journalism and literature[1†][2†].

His first job as a journalist was at a local Barcelona television show, Televisió de Ciutat Vella, where he worked as a reporter[1†]. This early experience in journalism laid the foundation for his future career and honed his skills in storytelling and communication[1†].

Iturbe then created the free magazine Gratix, which he directed[1†]. After participating in various short media projects, in 1993 he became the chief supervisor of the supplement television of El Periódico[1†]. Subsequently, he became editor of the cinema-magazine Fantastic Magazine[1†]. In 1996, he was involved in the emerging book magazine Que Leer, in which he held the position of chief editor, deputy director, and, since 2008, director[1†].

Throughout these years, Iturbe also took part in many media endeavors, such as the magazine Fotogramas, the book section of Protagonistas in the national radio broadcaster Onda Cero, or in cultural divulgation for Ona Catalana, Icat FM or La Cope de Bilbao, and in cultural supplements for journals La Vanguardia and Avui[1†].

In 2004, he published his first novel: Rectos torcidos[1†]. A humorous novel where the protagonist, a Barceloneta neighbour, starts up his own unique business: To transform Don Quixote and other literature classics into toilet paper to read them in the only place where people have their five minutes of peace a day[1†]. In the highest days of Barcelona’s economy he already bitterly criticised the changes Barcelona as a city was undergoing to become a theme park for tourism[1†].

In 2008 he published the first title of the children’s book series Los casos del inspector Cito[1†]. His novel La bibliotecaria de Auschwitz/The librarian of Auschwitz, published in 2012, has been published in 31 languages[1†]. In the United Kingdom, it was the best-selling translated book of the year 2019[1†].

First Publication of His Main Works

Antonio Iturbe’s literary journey began in 2004 with the publication of his first novel, "Rectos torcidos"[3†][2†]. This humorous novel tells the story of a resident of Barceloneta who starts a unique business: transforming Don Quixote and other literature classics into toilet paper to read them in the only place where people have their five minutes of peace a day[3†][2†]. The novel critically examines the changes Barcelona was undergoing to become a theme park for tourism[3†][2†].

In 2008, Iturbe published the first title of the children’s book series "Los Casos del Inspector Cito"[3†][2†]. This collection of stories was initially read to his son at bedtime[3†][2†].

However, Iturbe’s most notable work is “The Librarian of Auschwitz,” published in 2012[3†][1†][3†][4†]. This novel has been translated into 31 languages and was the best-selling translated book of the year 2019 in the United Kingdom[3†][1†]. The book tells the harrowing story of a young girl who risks her life to keep the magic of books alive during the Holocaust[3†][1†][3†][4†].

In 2017, Iturbe published "The Prince of the Skies"[3†][4†]. This novel has also been well-received, further establishing Iturbe’s reputation as a skilled and versatile author[3†][4†].

Here is a list of some of Antonio Iturbe’s main works:

• “Rectos torcidos” (2004)[3†][2†]
• “Los Casos del Inspector Cito” series (Starting in 2008)[3†][2†]
• “The Librarian of Auschwitz” (2012)[3†][1†][3†][4†]
• “The Prince of the Skies” (2017)[3†][4†]

Analysis and Evaluation

Antonio Iturbe’s work, particularly his novel “The Librarian of Auschwitz,” has garnered significant attention and praise for its poignant exploration of the human spirit in the face of extreme adversity[5†][1†]. The novel is based on the true story of Dita Kraus, a young girl who risked her life to maintain a secret library in Auschwitz-Birkenau[5†]. Iturbe’s meticulous research and empathetic storytelling bring to life a narrative that could have been lost to history[5†].

Iturbe’s writing style is characterized by its detailed descriptions and profound insights into the human condition[5†][1†]. His narratives often explore themes of history, memory, and resilience, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the experiences and perspectives of his characters[5†][1†].

Critics have praised Iturbe for his ability to weave historical facts with compelling storytelling. His work is noted for its authenticity, depth, and emotional resonance[5†][1†]. Despite the often harrowing subject matter, Iturbe’s narratives are imbued with a sense of hope and the enduring power of the human spirit[5†][1†].

Iturbe’s influence extends beyond his novels. As a journalist and the director of the cultural magazine Librújula, he has made significant contributions to cultural journalism in Spain[5†][1†]. His work in various media endeavors, such as the magazine Fotogramas, the book section of Protagonistas in the national radio broadcaster Onda Cero, or in cultural divulgation for Ona Catalana, Icat FM or La Cope de Bilbao, and in cultural supplements for journals La Vanguardia and Avui, has further solidified his reputation as a respected figure in the literary and journalistic fields[5†][1†].

In conclusion, Antonio Iturbe’s work provides a compelling exploration of historical events through the lens of personal narratives. His commitment to factual accuracy, combined with his empathetic storytelling, results in narratives that are both informative and deeply moving[5†][1†].

Personal Life

Antonio Iturbe was born on March 7, 1967, in Zaragoza, Spain[1†]. His family moved to Barcelona, and Iturbe grew up in the Barceloneta neighbourhood[1†][6†]. He pursued a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism at the Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, where he graduated in 1991[1†][6†].

During his studies, Iturbe balanced his academic pursuits with several jobs, including roles as a parking guard, baker, and an auditor[1†][6†]. This period of his life reflects his determination and commitment to his education and career development[1†][6†].

Iturbe currently resides in a town just outside of Barcelona, Spain[1†][7†]. Despite his global recognition and success, he maintains a strong connection to his roots in Spain[1†][7†].

Further details about Iturbe’s personal life are not widely available, reflecting his preference for maintaining a degree of privacy[1†][7†][8†][6†][2†].

Conclusion and Legacy

Antonio Iturbe’s work has left a profound impact on the literary and journalistic world[1†][7†][5†]. His novel, ‘The Librarian of Auschwitz’, is a testament to his ability to weave historical events into compelling narratives[1†][7†]. This book, inspired by the true story of Edita (Dita) Adlerova, who spent her early adolescence in Auschwitz-Birkenau, has been translated into 31 languages and was the best-selling translated book of the year 2019 in the United Kingdom[1†][7†].

As a journalist, Iturbe has contributed significantly to various media outlets. He is the director of the cultural magazine Librújula and a collaborator of the Spanish journal, La Vanguardia[1†]. His diverse roles in journalism reflect his commitment to the field and his ability to adapt to different formats and audiences[1†].

Iturbe’s legacy extends beyond his published works. His dedication to his craft, his ability to balance multiple roles, and his commitment to telling important stories have made him a respected figure in his field[1†][7†][5†]. His work continues to inspire readers and writers alike, demonstrating the power of literature to illuminate history and human experiences[1†][7†][5†].

Key Information

• Also Known As: Antonio González Iturbe[1†]
• Born: March 7, 1967, Zaragoza, Spain[1†]
• Nationality: Spanish[1†]
• Occupation: Journalist, author, professor, academic[1†]
• Notable Works: ‘The Librarian of Auschwitz’, 'A Cielo Abierto’[1†]
• Notable Achievements: Winner of the Biblioteca Breve award in 2017[1†]

Antonio Iturbe is a Spanish journalist, author, professor, and academic. He was born on March 7, 1967, in Zaragoza, Spain[1†]. He is best known for his novels ‘The Librarian of Auschwitz’ and ‘A Cielo Abierto’, which have been translated into multiple languages and have earned him international recognition[1†]. In addition to his writing, Iturbe has made significant contributions to the field of journalism. He is the director of the cultural magazine Librújula and a collaborator of the Spanish journal, La Vanguardia[1†]. His dedication to his craft and his ability to engage readers with his compelling narratives have solidified his reputation as a respected figure in the literary and journalistic fields[1†][7†].

References and Citations:

1. Wikipedia (English) - Antonio Iturbe [website] - link
2. Pan Macmillan - Antonio Iturbe [website] - link
3. Goodreads - Author: Books by Antonio Iturbe (Author of The Librarian of Auschwitz) [website] - link
4. Macmillan Publishers US - Antonio Iturbe [website] - link
5. Kirkus Reviews - Antonio Iturbe [website] - link
6. CelebsAgeWiki - Antonio Iturbe Biography, Age, Height, Wife, Net Worth, Family [website] - link
7. Publishers Weekly - Q & A with Antonio Iturbe [website] - link
8. Fantastic Fiction - Antonio Iturbe [website] - link