TIBE to place Hungary in the spotlight

2015/12/28

The upcoming edition of the Taipei International Book Exhibition will feature Hungary as the theme nation and focus on the central European country’s rich cultural heritage, according to the Ministry of Culture Dec. 23.

Arranged around the theme of “Freedom Love,” the event will pay tribute to Hungarian poet and revolutionist Sandor Petofi and will feature literary works and traditional handicrafts, in addition to animation screenings, folk dances, puppetry performances and talks hosted by renowned Hungarian writers.

“TIBE has become the most important book fair in Asia and a key platform showcasing Taiwan’s cultural and literary spirit while promoting global exchanges and interactions,” MOC Deputy Minister Tsai Ping-kun said during a press conference.

Also attending the event, Nikolett Egeni, Hungarian deputy representative to Taiwan, said TIBE’s selection of her country is particularly significant as 2016 marks the 60th anniversary of the Hungarian Revolution.

Another TIBE highlight is “Exhibition of Eileen’s Style”—an expo dedicated to renowned writer Eileen Chang (1920-1995).

Through displays of manuscripts, personal belongings, photos and illustrations created by Chang herself, the event offers audiences a rare glimpse into the personal life of the beloved author.

Set to take place Feb. 16-21 at Taipei World Trade Center, the 24th installment of TIBE will also see participation by Hungarian director Peter Gardos and renowned literati such as Andrzej Sapkowski from Poland, Chantal Thomas of France and Robert Louis Hass from the U.S.

More than two dozen other prominent figures from Germany, Israel, Japan, mainland China, Malaysia, New Zealand, Portugal and Sweden will also take part in related events held on the sidelines.

Source: Taiwan Today (http://taiwantoday.tw/ct.asp?xItem=240677&ctNode=2194&mp=9)