What an inspiring day at the SG Book Fair 2025, held at Bras Basah Complex in conjunction with the Singapore Writers Festival!
A Multilingual Experience — the fair features books and authors in English, Chinese, Malay, and Tamil, creating a truly inclusive platform for literary exploration and cultural connection.
At the Union Book Co Pte Ltd 友联书局 booth, I was delighted to see 《雷霆一击》(Thunderstroke) displayed as one of the two recommended reads for the event. When 96.3 好FM DJ: De Ming 王德明 (Wang De Ming) — who is also the host for the Opening Ceremony — came by to interview Jia Wei, the store manager, about his book recommendations, he spoke about 《雷霆一击》. As I happened to be at the booth, Jia Wei mentioned that I was the author — and that’s how I found myself drawn into the interview.
I shared with Wang De Ming how Lim Hwee Hwee and 李俊賢lovingly translated the book, working diligently to keep the Chinese text faithful to my thoughts, emotions, and intent. The book was brought to life with striking illustration and calligraphy created by Li Junle, a gifted youth with autism, together with Bob Lee, who worked closely with him on this project. Their sincerity and talent add depth and authenticity to the book. For someone like me — who has always admired Mandarin but isn’t strong in the language — this edition is more than a translation; it’s a bridge across languages, cultures, and hearts.
A heartfelt thank-you to Union Book’s Managing Director, Ms Margaret Ma, and Jia Wei Yap Chia Wei for their incredible support in promoting my book. When Mayor Denise Phua, the Guest of Honour, came by the Union Book booth, Ms Ma kindly introduced me. I had the honour of sharing both the Chinese and English editions — 《雷霆一击》 and Thunderstroke — with Mayor Phua, who was very encouraging and even bought both versions.
I was also thrilled to see 《雷霆一击》 displayed at the 草根書室 (Grassroots Book Room) booth at the fair — another meaningful moment seeing the book alongside so many inspiring works.
As I walked around the fair, one title caught my eye — a book called “For Always” (长长久久) by Mario Koo at the Union Book booth. The design and visuals immediately captured my attention and gave me ideas for a future project connected to my upcoming short film.
We also took photos together — with Mayor Denise Phua Lay Peng, Ms Margaret Ma, and other key stakeholders of SG Book Fair 2025.
It was a meaningful day of connection and shared love for books. Thank you to everyone who stopped by and supported 《雷霆一击》(Thunderstroke) — your encouragement continues to inspire me.