During this event, Bulgarian-Belgian author Irina Papancheva will present her novel 'Brussels, Naked'. The event is in English and will be moderated by Mirena de Wert. 
After the presentation there will be an author signing session and opportunity for attendees to engage in conversation over a cup of tea/coffee.

About the book: 'Brussels, Naked' is an experimental novel structured as twelve interconnected novellas, each set in a different neighborhood of Brussels and narrated by various characters. The novel spans fifteen years, with the storylines weaving together around Iris, a young Bulgarian journalist who arrives in Brussels for a traineeship at the European Parliament. Expecting the city to be dull, she is instead captivated by it, and her decision to stay comes at the cost of her marriage. Brussels itself acts as a protagonist, a vibrant, multifaceted city where diverse individuals from different backgrounds live in isolation until chance encounters force them to cross paths. The book delves into their personal stories—ranging from love and migration to the consequences of crises in the EU—reflecting Brussels’ rich cultural tapestry.

Critics praise 'Brussels, Naked' for its nuanced portrayal of human relationships and the city of Brussels. The novel offers a fresh perspective on migration, belonging, and diversity in Europe, while its intricate narrative structure allows Papancheva to explore complex themes such as identity, isolation, and connection. With her engaging prose and well-rounded characters, Papancheva brings Brussels to life, presenting it not just as a backdrop but as a living entity that intertwines with its residents. The novel has been lauded as a significant work in contemporary European literature, combining emotional depth, cultural insight, and a uniquely constructed narrative that captures the essence of the European capital and its inhabitants.

About Irina Papancheva: Irina Papancheva is a Bulgarian-Belgian author of novels and short stories. She is also a professional children's rights advocate and a qualified coach. Her debut novel 'Almost Intimately' got the audience nomination in the national literary competition South Spring (2008). "Annabel" was shortlisted (2014) and "Brussels, Naked" ranked second (2022) in the Contemporary Bulgarian Novel Contest of the Elizabeth Kostova Foundation and Open Letter Books publishing house at the University of Rochester. ‘Brussels, Naked’ manuscript was also shortlisted for the first Orpheus Prize.

Irina Papancheva’s works have been translated into English, French, Arabic and Persian, and have appeared in anthologies and literary magazines. The Bulgarian Ministry of Culture has offered her a grant for the writing of her first short story collection. Irina Papancheva has taught creative writing classes in English, organised by the Bulgarian Cultural Association in Belgium. Irina Papancheva holds an MA in Czech language and literature from Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski" and an MA in European Politics and Social Integration from Vrije Universiteit Brussel.

Irina Papancheva's website

Purchase the Book
Interested in reading 'Brussels, Naked' beforehand? You can purchase it in advance: Buy here

This event is organized by BG Hub Eindhoven, with the warm hospitality of de Bibliotheek Eindhoven

Wist je dat een bibliotheekabonnement voor jeugd gratis is? Volwassenen kunnen al voor €19,- per jaar een abonnement afsluiten. Daarmee heb je direct voordeel én steun je de bibliotheek. Lid worden kan eenvoudig online.