The Taipei International Book Exhibition opens, with the Anime Zone II drawing huge crowds

This year’s Taipei International Book Exhibition features several highlights: a total of 700 events, participation by 300 domestic and international authors, and 20 themed exhibition zones, all setting records. The 2011 Theme Country is the “Bhutan National Pavilion,” the only one of its kind internationally, showcasing the culture, publishing, lifestyle, and the world-renowned “Gross National Happiness” index of this mysterious small nation. Additionally, 800 publishers from across Taiwan have launched their own promotional offers, allowing the public to shop to their heart’s content. Shoppers spending over a certain amount at the book fair can also enter lucky draws for grand prizes such as cash rewards of NT$10,000, Mac Book Airs, and iPads—plenty of great deals.