Cláudia Coelho Represents Teresópolis at FLIP 2026 with Book Launches and Participation in the Official Program of the House of Reading and Knowledge

Taking part in the Paraty International Literary Festival (FLIP) has always been more than a dream. It is an opportunity to bring the literature produced in our city to one of Brazil's largest and most prestigious literary events, where writers, readers, publishers, and cultural professionals come together to celebrate the transformative power of books.

This year, I have the joy of representing Teresópolis in two significant moments of the festival's program.

The first takes place at the Jornal & Editora Alecrim stand, where I will be presenting and launching my books alongside other authors from Teresópolis. It is a very special occasion, reaffirming the publisher's commitment to creating opportunities for independent writers and demonstrating that our city produces high-quality, sensitive literature dedicated to inspiring and educating readers.

Every book brought to FLIP represents years of study, research, writing, revision, and dedication. More than printed pages, these books carry stories, memories, emotions, and the perspective of those who believe literature has the power to transform individuals and communities.

However, my participation in FLIP 2026 extends beyond the publisher's stand.

I have been invited to join the official program of the House of Reading and Knowledge (Casa da Leitura e do Conhecimento), a cultural space promoted by the Rio de Janeiro State Secretariat for Culture and Creative Economy in partnership with cultural institutions as part of FLIP's official Partner Houses program. This venue brings together writers, researchers, educators, storytellers, artists, and cultural producers in a free program dedicated to democratizing access to books, reading, and knowledge.

For me, this invitation holds profound significance.

Throughout more than three decades devoted to education, literature, and cultural production, I have always believed that writing goes far beyond publishing books. Writing is about building bridges between people, preserving memories, inspiring children's imagination, encouraging new readers, and strengthening our cultural identity.

Being part of the House of Reading and Knowledge represents recognition of a journey built through education, storytelling, cultural projects, reader development, and the work I have carried out in communities throughout the State of Rio de Janeiro.

I bring with me not only my books but also a part of Teresópolis' history, the mountains that inspire so many stories, the literary projects we have developed over the years, and the dedication of countless authors who believe that culture can transform lives.

I also bring the work of Jornal & Editora Alecrim, which has become an important force in promoting regional literature by providing opportunities for independent writers to publish, promote, and showcase their work at literary events throughout the state and across Brazil.

I hope this participation will inspire others to believe in the strength of the literature created in our city. Teresópolis is home to talented writers, illustrators, teachers, researchers, artists, and cultural producers who deserve to be recognized and celebrated.

May this presence at FLIP become just another chapter in a story that continues to be written every day by everyone who believes in reading as a powerful instrument of social transformation.

Representing Teresópolis at one of the country's most important literary events is both an honor and a responsibility. I will return home even more convinced that we must strengthen public policies that support books and reading, expand opportunities for local authors, and bring our schools, libraries, and communities even closer to the world of literature.

Because when a writer brings their city to an event like FLIP, they bring far more than books.

They carry the identity of their people, their memories, their culture, and the conviction that the stories of Teresópolis deserve to be read not only throughout Brazil but also beyond its borders.