Allow me to praise the initiatives and hard work put into the realisation of publishing a unique book consisting of a compilation of contributions by 10 of Malta’s current top writers in honour of former European Court of Human Rights judge Giovanni Bonello. Awguri Giovanni Bonello could not have eliminated a long-felt literary shortcoming without the support of Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti.
The contents of this book might be a small token for Bonello but a great and priceless treasure for Malta’s literary wealth.
In a manner and style which really stand out, the book’s contributors unintentionally bring out the main point that perhaps Bonello’s biggest challenge after success was shutting up about it. Those contributors never had any intention of shutting up about it.
Bonello has a whole repertoire of great legal and juridical achievements on the national and international scene, with an equal repertoire of great literary and Melitensia achievements.
All in all, his formidable character and great literary passion should convince us that we should not teach great books; we should teach a love of reading.
Knowing the contents of a few works of literature is a trivial achievement. Being inclined to go on reading is a great achievement.
Bonello found a purpose to serve, not a lifestyle to live.