Gabriel García Márquez is the most widely read novelist writing in Spanish and the most critically acclaimed writer in his native Colombia, and even, some would argue, in the world. His vast body of literary work includes 14 fiction novels, five non- fiction chronicles, a number of short stories, thousands of articles and a recently released autobiography.

He has earned a universal reputation over more than 50 years of prolific writing. Today, he is regarded not just as a major author, but as the leading symbol of Latin-American literature. His works have been translated into more than 30 languages around the world, yet his publications continue to reflect the reality and magic of the American continent, as well as constituting a tribute to imagination and the human heart. Marquez also plays an influential role as a social militant and an activist for freedom of speech and freedom of the press.