A Story About Freedom and Childhood
Mer Gómez will present «Aske» —a Basque word meaning free— on 29 September 2026 at La Rossa, a bookshop in Valencia specialising in women authors. The illustrated book, aimed at readers aged 6 and up, tells the story of Lola, an independent girl living in a Castilian village whose world turns upside down when an unexpected event forces her to use her wit. With 32 pages, the work adapts part of the author’s doctoral thesis (2018-2023) in an accessible way, though no prior knowledge is needed: its tone is engaging and designed for a 10 to 15-minute read-aloud session.
What to Expect at the Event
The event will begin with a live reading of excerpts from the book, followed by a brief explanation of the creative process and the adaptation of academic text into a children’s format. After the presentation, Mer Gómez will sign copies for attendees, though it has not been confirmed whether the book will be available for purchase on-site. Entry is free and no prior registration is required, but La Rossa’s capacity is limited.
About the Author
Mer Gómez (Salamanca, 1991) is a writer and intersex activist, known for works such as «La rebelión de las hienas» and «Las hermafroditas del siglo XXI». In «Aske», her first children’s book, she combines her narrative experience with a pedagogical approach, exploring themes like autonomy and resilience through fiction.
