In a world increasingly shaped by distance: geographical, cultural, and even emotional, there remains one gathering where those distances soften and stories rise to become bridges. Essentially, this global exchange stands the Guadalajara International Book Fair, a luminous meeting place where language becomes a shared home and literature reminds us that connection is still possible, still vital, still beautifully human. It was within this vibrant atmosphere that ARPress proudly took part in the 2025 edition of the fair, joining thousands of voices who came together to celebrate imagination, creativity, and the enduring power of the written word.
The fair, held from November 29 to December 7, 2025, at Expo Guadalajara, is recognized as the largest literary gathering in the Spanish-speaking world and one of the most influential book fairs in existence. Founded in 1987 by the University of Guadalajara, it has grown into a cultural phenomenon that attracts hundreds of thousands of readers and attendees, along with publishers, literary agents, academics, artists, translators, and authors from more than 40 countries. Feria Internacional del Libro de Guadalajara (FIL) is far more than an event; it is a living crossroads of ideas, blending professional opportunities with public celebration, hosting author presentations, discussions, artistic exhibitions, workshops, concerts, and international dialogues that stretch across languages and cultures. Each year’s Guest of Honor further enriches the experience by highlighting the literature and artistic heritage of a featured region, adding a unique rhythm and identity to the fair.
For ARPress, participating in such an expansive and dynamic environment marked a significant milestone. The fair offered us the opportunity to strengthen our presence within the global literary community, particularly in the Spanish-speaking market, where storytelling is celebrated with extraordinary enthusiasm. It allowed us to connect with readers who seek fresh narratives, with publishers and partners eager to explore collaboration, and with creative minds whose work continues to move the world of literature forward. Being surrounded by such vibrancy reminded us why we publish: to champion diverse voices, to nurture bold ideas, and to bring stories into the world that resonate far beyond the page.
Among the titles showcased at the booth was I Can Read by Tony Vaughan, a work that reflects the heart of ARPress’ mission to present stories that stir curiosity, emotion, and reflection. Seeing this book displayed at FIL, against the backdrop of so many cultures and perspectives converging in one place, was a reminder of how literature can travel, transform, and transcend. This section may be easily adjusted to highlight any other featured title should the need arise, but the sentiment remains the same: bringing a book to FIL is not just about visibility, but about placing a story into the global conversation.
I Can Read is an uplifting, earnest picture book for young readers that combines the excitement of firefighting with the universal hurdle of struggling to read. By drawing from his 36-year career as a firefighter, Vaughan delivers a story full of authenticity, support, and growth. In this book, readers meet Jason, a young boy whose dream of becoming a junior firefighter hinges on passing a reading test, something he struggles with. As the test date approaches, Jason wrestles with embarrassment and frustration. But with each page, he learns that hard work matters. Through encouragement, possibly from teachers, family, or fellow firefighters, Jason practices reading, grows in confidence, and inches closer to his goal. Narrated in simple yet impactful prose, the story emphasizes persistence in the face of difficulty, culminating in a moment of triumph that reinforces the message: with effort and belief, you can conquer hard things and realize your dreams
Tony Vaughan, the author, brings real-world credibility to the story. With a 36-year career as a firefighter, Tony not only understands the excitement and duties of firefighting but also the mentorship firefighters often provide to youth. Based in Jackson, Tennessee, Vaughan has now turned to children’s literature to share a powerful message of hard work, perseverance, and personal growth. His background and experience add authenticity to Jason’s dream and journey.
Events like the Guadalajara International Book Fair matter profoundly today. At a time when the world grapples with both connection and fragmentation, literature has become an essential vessel for understanding, empathy, and dialogue. FIL embodies this purpose. It is a space where differences are celebrated rather than feared, where ideas are exchanged openly, and where the simple act of reading becomes a collective experience that spans continents. Walking through the fair is to witness communities forming in real time around the love of words.
As ARPress reflects on its experience at FIL 2025, we do so with gratitude and renewed ambition. The fair inspired us; through conversations, encounters, and shared moments, to continue elevating stories that matter and to work alongside creators and readers who believe in the transformative power of books. We return from Guadalajara not just with memories, but with a deeper sense of purpose, energized by the possibilities ahead.
And so, as we look toward the future, we remain committed to telling stories that cross borders, illuminate perspectives, and invite readers everywhere to discover something new within themselves. The world needs its stories, perhaps now more than ever, and ARPress is honored to be part of that continuing journey.
About ARPress
ARPress is an independent publisher dedicated to amplifying bold, original voices. With a growing list of award-winning titles, ARPress publishes works that challenge conventions, spark conversations, and expand the literary landscape.
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