Toman Marek

Marek Toman (b. 1967) is a writer, journalist and translator. Having graduated in Philosophy from Prague’s Charles University, he worked for Czech Radio as an editor for the arts. He has been in the employ of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic since 1997. Between 2000 and 2010, he served as a diplomat in Estonia and Hungary.

Toman’s novels weave together themes from Czech and European history to make connections with the present day. He explores the coexistence of Judaism and Christianity, Prague-based themes, the history of the 20^th century and totalitarianism; he also takes a look at contemporary diplomacy. In his books for children, notably the acclaimed Cukrárna U Šilhavého Jima [Cross-Eyed Jim’s Coffeehouse], he enjoys introducing young readers to classics of world literature and the magical power of reading.

Toman’s journalism comprises topics of literature and culture, interviews with authors and reviews. He brings his children’s books to the stage at the Čučka Theatre, which he founded in 2018. He regularly performs in schools and libraries and at festivals.  

Works translated into: Estonian, Finnish, German, Hungarian, Macedonian, Polish, Russian, Serbian, Spanish.