guests

She is a distinctive voice in contemporary Romanian literature. She was born on November 13, 1976, in Bistrița. She has dedicated her life to both the art of writing and social activism, particularly advocating for individuals diagnosed with autism and atypical development. Ana Dragu debuted in the literary world with her poetry collection Iarbă pentru fiare (Grass for Beasts, 2004), followed by Păpușa de ceară (The Wax Doll, 2008), Păzitoarea (The Guardian, 2012), and Borderline (2017), all published by Charmides Publishing House. Her poetry, translated into English and acclaimed internationally, delves into themes of introspection, tenderness, and human fragility. In addition to her literary endeavors, Ana Dragu holds a Ph.D. in Psychology and is a licensed clinical psychologist and psychotherapist. She is the founder and director of the "Micul Prinț" (Little Prince) Autism Resource and Reference Center in Bistrița. This center provides therapy and support to children with autism and their families, both locally and nationally. Ana has also published several scientific articles on autism therapy and the bidirectional impact on children and their families. In 2015, Ana Dragu published the nonfiction book Mâini cuminți. Copilul meu autist (Gentle Hands: My Autistic Child) with Polirom Publishing House. This deeply personal work draws on her experiences as the mother of a child with autism. The book was widely praised for its honesty and depth, offering an intimate perspective on the challenges and joys of raising a child with special needs. Ana Dragu is known not only for her literary contributions but also for her work in the field of autism advocacy. The "Micul Prinț" Center she founded has become a benchmark in Romania for therapy and support for children with autism. Her work combines poetic sensitivity with a strong commitment to social causes, demonstrating how art and activism can coexist and foster positive change. Ana Dragu's work and dedication have been acknowledged through numerous awards and nominations. Her poetry has been featured in prestigious literary journals and translated into multiple languages, amplifying its impact beyond Romania's borders.

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