Every year, primary school children throughout France spend a week with various famous authors listening to, reading and writing stories. Lire en Fete (Youth and Literacy) began as an initiative by the Ministry of Education in France to increase and nurture an interest in books among young readers.
For the last five years in Taiwan Le Pigeonnier, a local bookstore specializing in French literature, has hosted similar activities to celebrate the educational affair with members of the French and local communities in Taipei. Not always geared towards primary readers, the event continues in the tradition of inviting French authors for a book reading and reception this weekend.
Beginning at 3pm today, Pierre Fournier will be at Le Pigeonnier for an informal discussion on his latest children's book, Le Babiroussa. Compared to Le Petit Prince (The Little Prince) by several critics, the novel has earned favorable reviews throughout France. The story tells of one man's adventures while searching the world for the last living Babiroussa, a mythical creature that resembles an oversized boar with carrot-colored hair. While children listen to the narrative being read by its author, their parents can enjoy free alcoholic beverages and French snack foods.
Those unable to attend the reception today can join the festivities taking place tomorrow or Sunday. There won't be any refreshments, but Fournier, along with French novelist Anais Vaugelade, will be available for book signings and discussion from 1pm until 5pm.
There is a host of additional lectures, readings and discussions with visiting French authors taking place across the island this weekend and into the month. For complete listings and details in both Chinese and French, check online at www.fi-taipei.org. Le Pigeonnier (信鴿法國書店) is located at 9, ln 97 Songjiang Rd, Taipei (台北市松江路97巷9號). For further information, contact the bookstore at (02) 2517 2616.
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