What happens when the hopes of a generation are dashed by austerity policies and underemployment? In his expertly paced collection of stories, Come On Up, rising literary star, Jordi Nopca, shows us a group portrait of contemporary Barcelona, beaten by the economic crisis and divided by a secessionist movement. Always witty, often absurdist, these stories offer a mesmerizing glimpse into the daily lives of couples, families, and neighbours living the new normal of the 21st century. A husband seeks revenge on his wife as they stalk author Peter Stamm; an out-of-work bartender fills his empty days by shoving bananas into the tailpipes of parked cars; a mysterious ritual, spied through a neighbour’s window, arouses deadly spirits.

Jordi Nopca talks with Dimitri Nasrallah (The Bleeds) about his collection, Come on Up, and the embattled world he portrays with an unresolved past and an uncertain future.

About this event’s guests:
Jordi Nopca 
Dimitri Nasrallah

Photograph of the author is courtesy of Violeta Gumà.
Come on Up is translated from the Catalan by Mara Faye Lethem.

Toronto Public Library is committed to accessibility. Please call or email us if you are Deaf or have a disability and would like to request accommodation to participate in this program. Please let us know as far in advance as possible and we will do our best to meet your request. At least three weeks’ notice is preferred. Phone 416-393-7099 or email accessibleservices@tpl.ca

Jordi Nopca: Come on Up, Tales of Barcelona