Elia Publishing’s new series, “Local Literature in Greece: mid-19th c.–mid-20th c.,” kicks off with Ioannis Kondylakis’s work “First Love“!

The titles in the series were selected based on geographical criteria, as their plots are set in specific regions of Greece each time. The readings aim to encourage visitors to take a fresh look, through the lens of modern Greek literature, at the open landscapes and hidden corners of Greece, as well as the local customs and traditions.

And of course, in addition to travelers, the series aims to expand its reach to the Greek diaspora. The practical design of the publications, with the Greek text and its English translation side by side, is also aimed at all those who have chosen to learn Modern Greek as a foreign language, facilitating parallel reading in both languages.

The books include facsimile reproductions of the original editions, as well as their transcription into the Greek monotonic system. The informative glossaries, combined with the philological comments, place the works in their historical context, making them appealing to readers. Finally, the included maps mark the locations mentioned in the texts, encouraging travelers of all kinds to explore beyond the typical tourist circuit.

The series is curated by Elli Droulia (historian and former director of the the Hellenic Parliament Library), while Ioannis Melanitis (professor and vice-rector for external relations at the Athens School of Fine Arts) serves as artistic director and cover designer. Stella Tokou is responsible for editing the texts, Periklis Oikonomou for the layout of the publication and the maps, and Giannis Loukas for researching the source material. The public relations department is headed by Maria Daskalopoulou.

Ioannis Kondylakis (1862–1920)

IOANNIS KONDYLAKIS – FIRST LOVE

The novella “First Love” provided the title for the last book published by Ioannis Kondylakis of Viannos, one year before his death. The theme of this autobiographical work is the first love between a boy and a young girl, with a plot reminiscent of the romance of Romeo and Juliet.

Overall, “First Love” embodies all of Ioannis Kondylakis’s ideas regarding the practice of modern Greek prose, while also serving as a treasure trove of the Cretan dialect. The text was translated into English by Xanthi Hondrou-Hill.

*Photo Credits: Stavros Tsiaras

*The retail price of the first title is 26 euros (including VAT); hardcover, 13 x 20 cm, 376 pages, ISBN 978-960-87781-8-4