The Azorean writer will lead a literary discussion today, October 23, exploring women’s place in society, the struggle for social transformation, and the power of literature to imagine a different world.
What would the world look like if women could fundamentally reshape the structures of society, redefine human relationships, and imagine a new understanding of our place on the planet? These are among the provocative questions at the heart of Mãe de Pedras (Mother of Stones), a novel by Azorean writer Avelina da Silveira that journeys from humanity’s prehistoric past to a future four centuries beyond our own. Today, Friday, October 23, readers in Lagoa, São Miguel, will have an opportunity to explore these questions directly with the author during a special gathering devoted to literature, women’s experiences, and the transformative possibilities of the imagination.
The event takes place today from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Tomaz Borba Vieira Municipal Library, located in the historic Convent of Santo António, and will be moderated by the author alongside young participant Matilde Subica Melo.
Following readings of selected passages, participants will be invited to discuss the role of women in society, exchanging perspectives on the social and philosophical questions raised by the novel.
Mãe de Pedras tells the story of a women’s organization known as Telea and its leader, called Mater, who pursues radical changes in the organization of human relationships and humanity’s connection with the natural world.
Divided into four parts, the novel moves across an extraordinary historical and imaginative landscape. It begins in the Mesolithic period with N’kura, the first Mother of Stones, and concludes four centuries into the future, with the preparation of a new Mater within a profoundly transformed society.
Through this expansive narrative, da Silveira explores questions of gender, power, collective responsibility, and the possibility of reimagining established social structures.
The author brings an international and multidisciplinary perspective to her literary work.
Born in Huambo, Angola, to Azorean parents, Avelina da Silveira studied Psychology and History in Ontario and earned a master’s degree in Sociology from the University of Toronto.
She taught in elementary education in Portugal and Canada and lived in Canada for approximately three decades before returning to the Azores.
A poet, visual artist, novelist, and editor, da Silveira has developed a substantial body of creative work informed by her commitment to social justice and the exploration of human relationships.
Today’s gathering forms part of the Municipal Reading Club, an initiative launched earlier this year by the Municipality of Lagoa through the Tomaz Borba Vieira Municipal Library.
After several sessions during the first part of the year and a summer interruption, the program returns in October and November with the objective of encouraging reading, bringing different generations together, and creating opportunities for dialogue across diverse literary perspectives.
The organizers hope that the discussion of Mãe de Pedras will provide a space for thoughtful reflection on the experiences of women and the broader social questions raised by contemporary literature.
Those interested in attending today’s session may register by emailing biblioteca@lagoa-acores.pt, calling 296 912 510, or using the QR code available through the municipality’s website and social media channels.
The event is part of Lagoa’s continuing efforts to promote literature as a meeting place for ideas, generations, and the wider community.
Based on information released about the Municipal Reading Club at the Tomaz Borba Vieira Municipal Library in Lagoa, São Miguel, concerning today’s October 23, 2026, session dedicated to Avelina da Silveira’s Mãe de Pedras. Also based on an article in Diário dos Açores, Paulo Viveiro, director. The phtos are from DA and the author’s Facebook page.