Juan del Val Champions Entertainment in Literature with Premio Planeta Win

Juan del Val, the Madrid-born author and television personality, has won the 74th Premio Planeta for his novel 'Vera', a passionate narrative about a married high-society woman and a younger man of humble origin. The novel also depicts a woman's transformative journey from divorce to self-discovery, anchored in themes of sex, desire, and class differences. Del Val underscores the importance of entertainment in literature, defending his work against critiques often levied without thorough reading. He stresses that literature should be accessible and popular, contending that literary quality and commercial appeal can coexist. Drawing from autobiographical elements, Del Val narrates stories rooted in personal experience, including his rise from a construction worker to a respected writer and media figure. Reflecting on his feminist stance, he recognizes the influence of important women in his life, such as his wife Nuria Roca and his mother. Del Val also highlights that well-executed intimate scenes in his writing deepen character development and enhance reader engagement. He advocates for literature to connect with popular culture rather than remain confined to elite circles. As he prepares for a three-week promotional tour across Spain, starting November 4 in Madrid, Del Val remains unapologetic about his commitment to entertaining storytelling while provoking thought and emotion through his work.