Chinese literature took center stage at the London Book Fair (LBF) on March 11, demonstrating active literary and publishing exchanges between China and the United Kingdom.
"Literature, as a key form of cultural expression, continues to serve as a bridge for mutual understanding between civilizations," Li Liyan, minister counselor for cultural affairs at the Chinese embassy in the UK, said at the opening of a series of signings and launch ceremonies.
In recent years, he noted, a growing number of Chinese works have been translated and published abroad, allowing international readers to gain a vivid, multidimensional, and authentic view of contemporary China.
During the event, the "Young Chinese Writers International Promotion Program" was officially launched, marking a major step toward introducing contemporary Chinese voices to global audiences. Initiated by the International Department of the China Writers Association and co-organized by a number of Chinese and international literary institutions, the program is led by China Publishing & Media Journal.
"Over the next two years, it aims to spotlight at least 50 emerging Chinese authors through new media campaigns, international promotional events, author interviews, reading sessions, video productions, and translated works," Ni Cheng, deputy general manager of China Publishing & Media Journal, said.
On the same day, China Book Scout launched its English account on Goodreads, introducing contemporary Chinese literature to international readers.
During the event, the English edition of Nehe Momeries, a nonfiction work by Huang Rong first published in 2022 by People's Literature Publishing House (PLPH), was signed at the LBF. The book, praised for its deep reportage and humanistic insight, will be published in the UK by Sinoist Books. Huang, with 22 years of experience in the police force, shared the stories behind her work and her personal reflections on the creative process.
Held from March 10 to 12, the London Book Fair is one of the world's most influential platforms for copyright trading and publishing industry exchanges. The annual event attracts more than 1,000 exhibitors and over 30,000 publishing professionals from the UK and around the world, bringing together publishers, writers, literary agents, booksellers, and translators for rights negotiations, business discussions, and exchanges on industry trends.
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