Syrian refugees, happy library-goers, and more
WLT at the University of Oklahoma March 26-28th.
All this week, we’ve been preparing for the Puterbaugh Festival, where we will be honoring Argentinean-Spanish author Andrés Neuman and celebrating literature and translation. We hope you can join us, either in person or online!
This week’s lit links feature news from around the world, including new publishing trends, a save-the-date reminder for an engaging literature celebration, and new book suggestions and recommendations. Enjoy!
News, Reviews, and Interviews
According to the United Nations, over two million Syrians have fled the fighting in their country to seek refuge elsewhere. Here is a look at their current situation from an author’s point of view.
For more coverage on the plight of the Syrian people, read these newly translated poems from writers responding to the situation in their own words.
Japanese-language books are some of the most popular books being sold in China, Korea, and Taiwan, according to Publishing Perspectives.
Mo Yan is one of the most prolific and well-know figures in Chinese literature. In this article at Melville House, Dustin Kurtz notes that, because of his work, China now strives to find the “Great Chinese Novel.” (For more information on Mo Yan or Chinese literature, visit our sister publication, Chinese Literature Today.)
One man has been arrested in Tokyo for allegedly defacing several books about Anne Frank in a local library. Hundreds of Frank books across the city have been vandalized since the beginning of the year.
Translation can apply to different forms of language—in Canada, an experimental poem is being translated into modern dance, which debuts throughout this weekend.
When people are required to do something, they generally develop a disdain for that activity. Does this mean that required reading is hurting America’s youths?
For Your Calendar
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the PEN World Voices Festival, which will take place April 28 - May 4, 2014. Definitely one not to miss if you’re in or near the NYC area.
Fun Finds and Inspiration
A brand new PEW study finds that people who are actively engaged with their local library tend to be happier and more engaged with their local community as a whole.
Tired of certain words not being recognized as valid in Scrabble games? You can now submit words to be considered for the official Scrabble dictionary.
Working on your #ReadWomen2014 reading list? The Huffington Post offers these poetry suggestions to add to your lists.
