Aunt Julia and the Scriptwriter by Mario Vargas Llosa

Description

“Aunt Julia and the Scriptwriter” (original title: “La tía Julia y el escribidor”) is a novel written by Mario Vargas Llosa, a Peruvian author and Nobel laureate in literature. The novel was first published in 1977. It is known for its blend of comedy, romance, and social commentary, and it draws inspiration from Vargas Llosa’s own experiences as a radio scriptwriter.

The story is set in Lima, Peru, in the 1950s, and it follows the life of Mario, a young law student and aspiring writer, as he becomes entangled in a complicated relationship with his aunt by marriage, Julia. Julia, who is several years older than Mario, works as a radio actress and is in the process of divorcing her husband.

The novel alternates between Mario’s narrative and excerpts from the scripts written by Pedro Camacho, a flamboyant and eccentric scriptwriter whose wildly imaginative radio dramas captivate the listeners. As Mario navigates his own love life and ambitions, the intertwining stories of his own experiences and the fictional worlds created by Camacho create a dynamic and engaging narrative.

“Aunt Julia and the Scriptwriter” is known for its wit, humor, and playful narrative structure. It explores themes of love, relationships, creativity, and the power of storytelling. The book also offers a glimpse into the world of radio broadcasting and entertainment during that era.

Vargas Llosa’s writing style in this novel is both entertaining and thought-provoking, making it a popular and well-regarded work in his literary oeuvre. If you enjoy novels that blend humor, romance, and social observation, “Aunt Julia and the Scriptwriter” could be an enjoyable and insightful read.