The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (TDC) announced early this week that the 16th Hong Kong Book Fair on July 20-25, will offer a string of exciting new attractions.

According to the TDC, its organizers, about 400 publishers will display their books and magazines, covering subjects such as history, philosophy, technology, business, travel, religion, practical skills, children's literature and others at the event.

Twelve countries will take part in the "International Cultural Village" pavilion, which will feature the latest titles from France, Denmark, Spain, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand and Viet Nam.

Well-known writers from the Chinese mainland, Taiwan and Hong Kong will be speaking at a conference entitled "Exploring the New Frontiers of Writing" and a series of "Renowned Author Seminars."

The Hong Kong Arts Centre and the Wanchai District Council of Hong Kong have joined forces with the council to stage a series of special exhibitions. These include "Literature and Film Crossover" and "Wanchai Cultural Map" which features Wanchai's historical architecture.

The council's Assistant Executive Director Benjamin Chau pointed out that record numbers of visitors have been turning up to the fair year after year, reflecting the event's popularity.

"This year's fair, with its new look, is expected to be another strong crowd-puller for book-lovers," he said.

Other fair highlights include "Children's Paradise," a forum on "Chinese Literature in the 21st Century," and "Reading Summer," among others.

(China Daily June 23, 2005)