A series of articles on Venezuela written 26 years ago is now available in book form, in recognition of the thousands who have learnt Spanish through its local embassy.

La Tierra de mis Sueños,.. Justo al Lado - The Land of my Dreams.... Just Next Door was launched June 24 at the Simon Bolivar Auditorium of the Venezuelan Embassy.

The series, which first appeared in the Catholic News in 1979, was written by former Catholic News writer, Dominican Sr Marie Thérese Retout. Copies of the original articles were on display.

Among those present at the launch were Venezuelan Ambassador His Excellency Hector Azócar and Embassy staff, Jesuit priest Fr Malcolm Rodrigues, noted historian Fr Anthony de Verteuil, CSSp, veteran television personality Holly Betaudier, Venezuelan nationals and Trinidadians with Venezuelan roots.

In brief comments, Ambassador Azócar said even though the content was written many years ago, the essence and feeling of his homeland in the articles remains true even today, and for this reason the Embassy decided to publish the series with the financial assistance of Venezuela-founded Sissons Paints ( Trinidad ).

The dual-language book (Spanish and English) was supposed to be launched in 2003 but circumstances in Venezuela prevented the joint launch of the book here in Trinidad .

Ambassador Azócar said the book will hopefully be of benefit to many: it will encourage those who do not know Venezuela, or those interested in learning Spanish, to get to know the country; for those who havevisited, it will give them an opportunity to relive their experiences; and for those with family roots, to know part of their history.

Noting that the Trinidad & Tobago Government is interested in making Spanish the nation's second language, Ambassador Azócar said the Venezuelan Embassy will continue to assist and support. He said the books will be distributed to primary and secondary schools where Spanish is being taught.

Jesus Rodriguez of Sissons Paints (left) and Venezuelan Ambassador Hector Azócar applaud Sr Marie Thérèse Retout after the launch of the book. Raymond Syms photo

Sr Marie Thérese said the book is “the result of many years of contemplation and a unique chance.” Among those she thanked were then Venezuelan Ambassador, AbdelKader Marquez and his wife, who arranged her first and only visit in 1979, and Ambassador Azócar for his enthusiasm for the project.

“I pray that this book, the fruit of my memorable visit to Venezuela , will be a guide to youth and a source of inspiration to readers. My hope is that after reading the book The Land of my Dreams… Just Next Door many will take the decision to go and see for themselves this land endowed by God, the creator and source of all that is beautiful.”

Popular cuatro player Robert Munro and friends entertained the gathering with many well-known Latin classics. - RS