The Guadalajara International Book fair (FIL), one of the most important literary events in the world, was the perfect setting for Gerardo del Villara diver, documentary filmmaker, writer and underwater photographer of sharksorcas, crocodiles, polar bears, whales and other large predators, will present his book Sharks Are Scared Too.
The work,published just recently three months, has resonated deeply among its readers,to the point of receiving very moving testimonies.
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The presentation took place at the stand of Epic Book, where an intimate meeting was initially expected; Though, it was surprising by filling the space, with attendees standing who were attentive and participatory. During the event, the great success that the book has had was highlighted, emphasizing that it has been recognized as Best Seller in Amazon thanks to its excellent reception.
In a relaxed conversation, Gerardo He shared anecdotes about his experience as an author and the learnings reflected in his work.
At the end, a unique moment marked the session: a person from the audience, visibly moved, thanked Gerardo for the transformative impact of his book.
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“You saved my life,” he said, words the diver described as a highlight in his career. as a writer.
“When I started writing my book, I never imagined I would receive a testimony like this. knowing that my work has impacted a person in this way makes all the efforts and sacrifices worth it,” the author shared.
Through sharks Are Scared TooGerardo seeks to inspire its readers to work through their fears and find the courage to transform their lives.
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What themes of fear and vulnerability does Gerardo del Villar explore in his book, *Sharks Are Scared Too*?
Time.news Interview: Gerardo del Villar on His Best-Selling Book and the Courage to Overcome fear
Editor: Welcome, gerardo del Villar! It’s a pleasure to have you hear. Your recent book, Sharks Are Scared Too, has garnered quite the attention, especially after being presented at the prestigious Guadalajara International Book Fair (FIL). What inspired you to write this book?
Gerardo del Villar: thank you for having me! The inspiration for Sharks Are Scared Too came from my experiences as a diver and underwater photographer. I’ve spent years documenting large predators like sharks, orcas, and polar bears. I realized that many people view these creatures as terrifying, often overlooking their vulnerabilities. I wanted to share a different narrative, one that encourages readers to confront their fears, not just of sharks, but of life in general.
Editor: It’s fascinating to have this viewpoint. Since its release three months ago, the book has been recognized as a Best Seller on Amazon. What do you beleive contributed to this overwhelming success?
Gerardo del Villar: I think the book’s success stems from its relatability. Many readers see their own fears reflected in the stories I tell about these apex predators. the connections people are making between my experiences underwater and their personal challenges have been incredibly powerful. The moving testimonies I’ve received highlight that.When someone shared with me that my book “saved their life,” it truly made all the efforts worthwhile.
Editor: That’s an incredibly impactful testimony! During your presentation at FIL, the audience reception was beyond what you expected. Can you share what that experience meant to you?
Gerardo del Villar: Standing room only was a pleasant surprise! I whent in thinking it would be an intimate gathering, but rather, there was such a vibrant community eager to engage with the subject matter. The moment that really struck me was when someone from the audience thanked me for the transformative impact of my work. It’s moments like those that reaffirm why I write.
Editor: It sounds like your book has fostered a deep connection between you and your readers. How do you think literature,particularly books like yours,can help individuals confront their fears and challenges?
Gerardo del Villar: Literature has a unique power to resonate with our inner thoughts and emotions. In Sharks Are Scared Too, I encourage readers to view their fears as something to understand rather than something to avoid. By relating my experiences with fear—whether in the ocean or in life—readers can find the courage to navigate their own struggles.It’s about transformation through understanding.
Editor: As an expert in underwater photography and storytelling, what practical advice would you give to aspiring writers looking to convey their experiences in a meaningful way?
Gerardo del Villar: My advice would be to stay authentic and passionate about your subject. Write from your heart and don’t shy away from vulnerability. Use the experiences you’ve had as a lens to connect with your audience. Remember, the emotional truth you convey can create a ripple effect, impacting not just individual lives, but entire communities.
Editor: Thank you, Gerardo. Your insights are both profound and inspiring. As you continue your work in underwater photography and storytelling, what’s on the horizon for you?
Gerardo del Villar: I’m currently exploring ways to deepen my impact, possibly through more engaging multimedia experiences that fuse storytelling with visual art. I believe there’s so much more to share about the beauty of our oceans and the creatures within them. But whatever I do, my commitment to helping others confront their fears will remain at the forefront.
Editor: we look forward to seeing what you create next! Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us today.
Gerardo del Villar: Thank you for having me! It’s been a pleasure.