 Writer Nguyen Nhat Anh (Photo: VNEXPRESS) |
Writer Anh was given a big hand when he stepped into the Kim Dong Publishing House in Hanoi. Hundreds of readers were dying to talk with Anh, a favorite, prolific writer of children’s books.
Duong Thi Viet Ha of the Hanoi University of Home Affairs said: “I arrived here at 4am. The publishing house hadn’t opened yet. I waited outside for quite a while. I’m so excited to be here waiting for his signature. Anh’s books remind me of my childhood. His characters are innocent, funny, and playful.”
Kinh Van Hoa is of great significance as it marked the beginning of literature for Vietnamese children in the renewal (Doi Moi) period. The book series have been a great treat for their souls and inspired their love for Vietnamese literature.
“I’m now 30 years old. I have read Anh’s books for years. They feature meaningful lessons for not only children but also adults so his children books are for every one of any age groups”, reader Nguyen The Anh of Hanoi told us.
 Kinh Van Hoa (Kaleidoscope) by Nguyen Nhat Anh (Photo: Baotintuc.vn) |
Readers find themselves relatable to the series Kinh Van Hoa. As the name suggests, every part of it opens children to a colorful, beautiful life full of love and kindness. The books tell us that even children are often associated with naughty tricks, there are silent parts inside them. Children also aspire to confine and be heard, to love and be loved.
Writer Anh said, “Kinh Van Hoa is my favorite toy, whether when I was a kid or when I have grown up. This might be the most magic gift that one might give to children. There are only colorful plastic pieces and paper flowers but every time we shake the kaleidoscope, we can see different pictures. My series, which is full of life stories and lessons, is like a kaleidoscope to children. I really like this title.”
Education Professor Nguyen Thuy Anh spoke highly of book series Kinh Van Hoa in children’s literature during the Doi Moi (Reform) period. It is not only a favorite of many children but also attracts more love into children’s literature. Ms. Thuy Anh said: “Young readers find Anh’s stories very close to their daily life. They can relate the characters Quy Rom, Hanh and Tieu Long to people they know. Another highlight is the writer’s sense of humor. When children seek a good laugh, they get it when they read the book.”
Its first volume was released in 1995. Later volumes were released periodically 7 years later until a temporary pause at the 45th volume in 2002. By 2009, 9 new volumes had been introduced. With reissues excluded, the series has had 7 different versions over the past 25 years.
Painter Do Hoang Tuong, illustrator for the series, was overwhelmed by its popularity. “Anh and I became close friends when we worked on the series. I like his writing style. I am his biggest fan. I’ve read his series over and over again. The stories remind me of my childhood in central Vietnam, which he depicted so well. Anh is such a talented writer!”, Tuong said.
At the meet-and-greet, many interesting stories revolving around “Kaleidoscope” were revealed. The series has gained love from many generations of readers, and it will continue to be a classic Vietnamese children’s series.