The Los Angeles Times Festival of Books will highlight Taiwanese literary works this year, presenting 10 English-language translations of notable Taiwanese books. This initiative, organized by Taiwan’s Ministry of Culture (MOC), aims to raise the global profile of Taiwanese authors and their work.
The prestigious event, taking place on Saturday and Sunday (U.S. time) at the University of Southern California, will include a curated selection of books translated into English, reflecting the diversity and quality of contemporary Taiwanese literature.
In a statement released on Thursday, the MOC emphasized its long-standing efforts to bring Taiwanese literary works to international audiences. This year’s showcased titles represent some of the finest translations from Taiwanese authors, published within the last two years.
Among the highlighted works is Taiwan Travelogue by Yang Shuang-zi, which won the 2024 American Book Award for Literary Translation. Translated by Lin King, the book offers a rich portrayal of Taiwan’s culture and landscapes. Another key title is Ká-Sióng, a collection of five chapbooks that bring together a variety of Taiwanese writers and translators. Additionally, Banana King Ngôo Tsín-suī by Lee Wang-tai, which has earned a spot on the longlist for the 2025 PEN America Literary Awards in the PEN Translation Prize category, will also be featured.
Other noteworthy selections include Elephant Herd: A Novel by Zhang Guixing, a Taiwan-based Malaysian author and winner of the 2023 Newman Prize for Chinese Literature. Spring, Summer, Asteroid, Bird: The Art of Eastern Storytelling by Taiwanese-American author Henry Lien will also be part of the exhibition, alongside Wild Greens, Beautiful Girl by Erica Lee Schlaikjer, a children’s book that explores Taiwan’s Indigenous Amis culture and heritage.
Henry Lien is scheduled to appear at the festival on Saturday, where he will interact with visitors and discuss his connection to Taiwan.
The MOC’s Taiwan Academy in Los Angeles described the festival, now in its 30th year, as one of the most prominent literary events in the United States. In addition to the curated Taiwanese literary showcase, the festival will feature over 500 authors, seminars, and performances. It is expected to attract approximately 150,000 attendees.
This year’s participation marks another significant step in Taiwan’s ongoing efforts to connect with international literary communities and promote the country’s rich cultural heritage.
