Journalist Silvia Martínez visited 'Deportes Cope en Bilbao' on Cope Bilbao to discuss the resounding success of her book De San Mamés a la eternidad, el Athletic como vínculo entre generaciones. The author confessed that she approached the launch "without expectations" and is already "working on the second" edition due to its exceptional reception. "It's really captivating people, which is what I like most," she stated.
Although the work stems from a personal account of her dream to become a journalist and step onto San Mamés stadium, largely inspired by her grandfather, Martínez emphasized that the story and "the very essence of Athletic itself" make many people feel identified. "People have come to tell me, 'I read you and it's me,' and they weren't journalists," she explained regarding the deep sense of belonging the book conveys.
I preferred to sell 20 copies that served a purpose rather than 100 that served no purpose.
The book features a prologue by José Ángel Iribar. The connection between them was so remarkable that Silvia herself joked about it: "I authorized myself as Iribar's granddaughter for that little while I was there." The journalist recounted how the idea for the prologue originated in Manchester and how her conversation with the Athletic legend in Lezama reminded her of talks with her own grandfather.
The memory of her grandfather remains very present every time she goes to her workplace. "Every time I enter San Mamés, I have a tear in my eye," she confessed, adding that when she sees the sky through the stadium's roof, she feels he "is there."
I use it as a ritual; before each match, I read a chapter the night before.
Silvia Martínez has confirmed her intention to write more books in the future, though without revealing the subject matter. Meanwhile, the second edition of De San Mamés a la eternidad will be available at usual sales points, such as La Casa del Libro, El Corte Inglés, and FNAC, and can also be ordered online.
