A map of the "pathways": (clockwise from top left) Idols & Fans, International Icons, Bookworm Favorites, German Authors, Media Stars (image by TiBE) A map of the "pathways": (clockwise from top left) Idols & Fans, International Icons, Bookworm Favorites, German Authors, Media Stars (image by TiBE)

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The 2019 Taipei International Book Exhibition is to begin following the New Year holidays.

CNA reports the fair will feature a number of stars including singer/songwriter Stone of Mayday fame (五月天石頭), actress Joanne Tseng (曾之喬) and TV host Wang Wei-zhong (王偉忠).

The book exhibition will be held from Feb. 12 to 17. and features several “Themed Pavilions” including “Across Time and Space,” “Roaming in Fantasy” and “Make a Zine.”

Germany is this year’s “guest of honor” theme country and 13 German authors will present their works at the fair alongside Taiwanese authors. Presentations will focus not only on literary voices but current social topics such as artificial intelligence and technology, as well as subjects specific to Taiwan like transitional justice.

Australian author of international bestseller “The Book Thief” Markus Zusak will be in attendance to celebrate the launch of the Chinese-language version of his latest release “Bridge of Clay.” The book revolves around five siblings coming to terms with the disappearance of their father.

A number of Japanese authors, including Ichiro Kishimi, Toshikazu Kawaguchi and Haruhiko Shiratori also make up the 2019 roster of “featured guests.”

The exhibition will be held in the Taipei World Trade Center between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. on each of the six days. Tickets can be purchased online or via FamilyMart convenience stores, under 18s enjoy free entry.

More information can be found on the official website (Chinese/English) including ticket information (Chinese only).