The writer Miguel Rojo has won the XVII Premio de Literatura Infantil 'Ciudad de Málaga' for his work 'Levísima'. The prize includes 10,000 euros and publication by Grupo Anaya.
The XVII edition of the Premio de Literatura Infantil 'Ciudad de Málaga' has named Miguel Rojo as its winner for his novel 'Levísima'. The award, endowed with 10,000 euros and publication by Grupo Anaya in the 'Libros singulares' collection, received 136 entries this year.
Rojo, born in Madrid in 1985, holds degrees in Hispanic Philology from the University of Granada and in Stage Direction from the Real Escuela Superior de Arte Dramático (RESAD). He combines literary creation with co-directing the theater company Los Bárbaros. Under the pseudonym Ángel Talián, he has published poetry collections such as 'La vida, panorámica' (Accésit del Premio Adonáis in 2013), 'La paciencia salvaje' (2016), and 'El sol sobre la nieve' (2016), as well as short story collections 'With or without you' (2010) and 'Estar solo' (2016). With his current name, he has produced the illustrated album 'Zeta' (2021) and the poetry collection 'El decorado' (2023). In children's literature, he is the author of 'Naunet y el mar' (Premio SGAE de Teatro Infantil in 2023) and 'Ramona Ratona Rotonda' (2025).
'Levísima' is set in a municipal cemetery, where the protagonist, Manuela, lives as the daughter of the local gravedigger. The plot revolves around the disappearance of a body, triggering an investigation by Manuela and a friend to prevent the loss of their jobs and home. The story explores childhood perspectives on death through the double meaning of the title, which references both the classical funeral expression and the protagonist's stance. Social themes such as the situation of the elderly, housing access, and friendship are woven into the narrative.
The jury, presided over by writer Espido Freire, included Elena Cabrerizo del Saz, winner of the 2025 edition; Jacqueline de Barros, writer and editor; Pablo Cruz, director of Anaya Infantil y Juvenil; and Antonio A. Gómez Yebra, coordinator of the prize and writer. The collaboration between the Málaga City Council and Grupo Editorial Anaya has sustained this prize for 17 years, aiming to promote reading among children and offer authors a platform for their works.
Last year's winner, Elena Cabrerizo del Saz, was part of the jury, providing continuity to the award. The prize not only recognizes literary merit but also supports early childhood education through reading. The winning book will be published by Anaya in its 'Libros singulares' series, expected to reach bookstores later this year.
Rojo's background in theater and poetry enriches his children's literature, bringing a unique perspective to 'Levísima'. The author's previous award, the SGAE Theater Prize for Children in 2023 for 'Naunet y el mar', underscores his dedication to young audiences. The novel's setting and themes offer a fresh approach to difficult topics, making it accessible to children while addressing real-world issues.
The award ceremony will take place in Málaga, with details to be announced by the city council. The book 'Levísima' is anticipated to be a significant addition to children's literature in Spain, continuing the tradition of the 'Ciudad de Málaga' prize in fostering quality works.
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