“Jelgava 94” / Newmag Publishes the Cult Novel by Jānis Joņevs in Armenian (Trailer)

The novel “Jelgava 94” was first published in Latvia in 2013. It has earned numerous honors, including the Latvian Literature Prize, the European Union Prize for Literature, and Latvia's Annual Literary Award. This iconic book, a bestseller in Latvia, has been translated into 20 languages.

Jānis Joņevs is a Latvian writer, playwright, and graduate of the Latvian Academy of Culture. In addition to writing, he works as a reviewer and translates literature from French.

According to the author, the book captures the experiences of young people in the 1990s who defined themselves through rock and heavy metal music. They rebelled, challenged social norms, and sought to create their own space in the world.

"My book is about teenagers. Our country was a teenager at that time too. These young people are drawn to the metal music subculture, standing as barriers against a world they feel does not understand them. After the book came out, I learned that many people in Latvia shared these feelings."

In 2019, a film adaptation of “Jelgava 94” was released. Scripted by Matīss Gricmanis, a well-known Latvian writer, the film was shot in Jelgava, a city that has changed little since the 90s, preserving the nostalgic essence of the novel.

Jānis Joņevs is currently in Armenia for a book tour to promote the Armenian edition of “Jelgava 94.” Newmag has organized a dynamic campaign, featuring multiple media appearances, gatherings with Armenian writers, and cultural visits to museums and historic sites.

The Armenian translation of “Jelgava 94” was done by Naira Khachatryan. The official presentation will take place on November 6, at 7:00 p.m., at Kond House. This literary and cultural evening will celebrate the book’s spirit and time period, with famous 90s hits setting the atmosphere. Entrance is free, and the book will be available at a discounted price.