Bronja Žakelj, author of the bestselling book White washes at ninety: "Remembrance of the dead and a tribute to life".

Bronja Žakelj, author of the bestselling book Belo se pere na devetdeset, has spoken openly about her life, including her family, the loss of her mother and brother, and her battle with cancer, which she successfully overcame. The book, published in 2018, was later adapted into a film, both of which have received widespread acclaim. During an interview in Lovrenc na Pohorju, Žakelj shared insights into her personal journey, emphasizing that the work serves as a tribute to the deceased and a celebration of life. The book Belo se pere na devetdeset was released in 2018 and earned its author the Kresnik Award the following year. At the time, Žakelj could not have imagined that the story would eventually be adapted into a film that would achieve such success in 2025. She explained that she wrote the book primarily for her two children, ensuring they would remember her family's story. “I wanted to tell an authentic story, one that shows vulnerability without shame, our weaknesses and beauty, longing and love. I wanted to write honestly, pushing myself to the edge of my experiences because only there can one find something real,” she said. Žakelj emphasized that the book and its film adaptation resonated deeply with audiences due to their sincerity. “All of this means a lot to me because those who have passed away live not just through my memories or my children’s, nor solely through the words in the book, but also through images in the film. They regain their voice through the film. That is the most I could ever hope to do for someone I loved so much. As they say, we die twice: once when our body is gone, and again when no one speaks our name anymore,” she added emotionally. The book and film serve as both a memorial and a tribute to her family. Žakelj described them as challenging yet meaningful works that readers and viewers perceive as a tribute to life itself. “It’s a story of hope, showing that it is possible, almost always possible, and worth living, even though life is beautiful despite everything,” she said. Life after the publication of the book brought Žakelj new experiences, some positive and others less so, reflecting the nature of life itself. “After the book, after the end of the book, life continued. After the film, obviously, my life continues. Difficult things shape us, losses, certainly, but also all the things that happen in between, the loves that occurred, small and big victories, little and big moments, all of these count,” she said during her conversation with the principal of Primary School Lovrenc na Pohorju, sharing many details of her life and family with the audience present. Žakelj’s openness about her personal struggles and triumphs has resonated with many, reinforcing the themes of resilience and the value of life found in her work. Her journey, reflected in both the book and the film, continues to inspire those who encounter her story. During the event, Žakelj spoke candidly about various aspects of her life, offering insights into her personal and professional experiences. Her reflections on loss, healing, and the importance of memory were met with deep appreciation from the audience. The discussion highlighted how personal narratives can transcend individual experience, touching the collective consciousness of those who listen. The impact of Belo se pere na devetdeset extends beyond literature and cinema, influencing discussions around grief, remembrance, and the human capacity for resilience. Žakelj’s willingness to share her vulnerabilities has helped many feel seen and understood, reinforcing the power of storytelling as a tool for connection and healing. Her ongoing engagement with her audience reflects a commitment to fostering dialogue around these profound themes. As the film continues to gain attention, Žakelj remains focused on the messages within her work. She expressed gratitude for the reception of her story and acknowledged the role of her family in shaping her narrative. Her presence at the event underscored the enduring relevance of her message, encouraging reflection on the meaning of life and the importance of remembering those who have passed.