Juan Mamo: Hajtu u Hilietu is a new biography by Frans Galea about the life and trades of one of the best classical writers in Malta during the first half of the last century. The book will be launched during the next edition of the Malta Book Fair to be held at the Mediterranean Conference Centre Valletta between tomorrow and Sunday.

The author illustrates not only the character of this unique writer and free thinker, but also the environment and political situation of the Maltese Islands. Since Mamo received only primary education, Galea had to go into this sector especially at Luqa village, the birth place of Juan. Galea also dug deeply in Mamo's family roots to expose this determination to make his existence worthwhile living. The book is being published by Sensiela Kotba Socjalisti (SKS) which has already published Mamo's classical novel Ulied in-Nanna Venut fl-Amerka written and first published in Malta in 1930.

During his life, Mamo had to take many difficult decisions. Finding himself in midst of problems mainly due to his sympathy with his master Manwel Dimech, Mamo left the island for Alexandria. After a few years there, he found out that his master has been exiled to Egypt. Thus, Juan managed to be able to meet Dimech and even be at his bed side during his last hours on earth.

Francis Galea, then, tackles Mamo's return to Malta, his expeditions abroad in Europe and Mamo's journalistic urge. After getting married, Juan lived at Marsa close to the busiest area of the islands. There he was influenced by the flow of emigrating Maltese, and the trade scene. All this must have raised the stimulus to create his classic and unique novel Ulied in-Nanna Venut fl-Amerka, published in parts during 1930.

In this biography, Galea's efforts do not only rest on the premise of exposing Juan Mamo's life, but also as an encouragement to those who happen to have to face turbulent moments. Reading this book, Juan Mamo: Hajtu u Hilietu, which also includes an English unpublished long essay by Mamo, will give new insights and will power to those who do not find the normal opportunities and comforts to make up their future.