Literacy in Action
Aside from the many books on sale, the Hong Kong Book Fair has organized plenty of exciting events this year—even without the pseudo models. Here are the highlights:
Stephen Fry, Frederick Forsyth, Andrew Roberts and Sir David Tang
That’s right—Britain’s favorite charmingly disheveled comic, author and all-round wise guy will be in town for the fair, and will join “Days of the Jackal” author Frederick Forsyth and British historian Andrew Roberts on the talk: “How and What and Why Do Writers Write?” hosted by Sir David Tang. A must-go event. Fri, Jul 23, 6pm at Theatre 2, Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai; Sat, Jul 24, 10am at Loke Yew Hall, University of Hong Kong. Register online at hkbookfair.hktdc.com/en/events.aspx and hku.hk/writersforum respectively.
Chip Tsao
HK Magazine’s very own columnist Chip Tsao will share his recommendations on renowned English writers on Wed, Jul 21, 1-2pm, Room S428. Then on Saturday (Jul 24), Chip will be back with Michael Chugani for a public sharing session at 11:30am, also in Room S428.
Anthony Horowitz
The famous author of the “Alex Rider” teen spy series will be in town for a book tour. Thu, Jul 22, 2pm, Room S423-424.
Xu Xi
Local writer Xu Xi will share her experiences writing about contemporary Asia. Thu, Jul 22, 4pm, Room S428.
Pan Shiyi
Prominent Beijing property developer Pan Shiyi, who founded SOHO China, is also a prolific blogger and philanthropist. He will share his views on mainland society and corporate social responsibility with famous Taiwanese TV show host Sisy Chen. Conducted in Putonghua. Wed, Jul 21, 2pm, Room S221.
Zhang Yihe
Revolutionary mainland writer Zhang Yihe was jailed for 10 years during the Cultural Revolution because she is the daughter of prominent intellectual (and alleged rightist) Zhang Bojun. Since her retirement in 2002, she has written books on the Cultural Revolution that criticize the then-administration. Her latest work is co-authored by law scholar He Weifang, an outspoken advocate of reforming the Chinese legal system. Sun, Jul 25, 4:30pm, Room S221.
Hong Kong Book Fair, Jul 21-27, 9am-10pm (Jul 21), 10am-10pm (Jul 22, 25, 26), 10am-midnight (Jul 23-24), 10am-5pm (Jul 27). Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai. Tickets $10-$25. The listed events require registration at www.hkbookfair.com.
Additional reporting by Nicholas Shay
And... where are the boobs?
If none of this is stimulating enough for you, here’s where you can attend autograph sessions and promotional events put on by the pseudo models. Details are yet to be confirmed.
Chrissie Chau
When: July 21-27
Where: Convention and Exhibition Centre (anywhere but the
Book Fair!) and shopping centers in public housing estates around Hong Kong
Angelababy
When: July 24
Where: Harbour City