Over 150 publishing houses and book distributors from nine counties are taking part in the 22nd International Children’s and Youth Book Fair that was opened at “Moldexpo” on April 19. More than 80 book titles will be launched in the event. For the first time, writers take part in the fair alongside publishing houses and book distributors, IPN reports.

Director of the National Children’s Library “Ion Creanga” of Chisinau Claudia Balaban said the book titles will be launched at a number of education institutions as the pavilion used at “Moldexpo” became too small for the purpose. The fair will include activities that will involve children, such as workshops, discussion panels and interactive games.

Claudia Balaban said the children’s book in the information age should not compete but cooperate with the information technology. The children’s books should be very well printed, nicely illustrated and have an impeccable content. “We must offer the children valuable books from which they will learn things that will help them in life. This way we can compete with information technology,” she stated, adding that the goal of the event is to present high-quality books that are awaited by readers, for all tastes.

Within the fair, Japan’s Ambassador to Moldova Masanobu Yoshii read Japanese stories to children. He said he chose two stories that teach the children what they should do and should not do to become good persons or they will be punished if they are bad. “In general, in Japan and anywhere, the stories teach the children how they should be. The children should read more stories and books so as to enrich their knowledge,” stated the diplomat.

Vasile Romanciuc’s book “Small poems for growing up” is the surprise-book offered free to the children who will visit the fair this year. The event is open between 9am and 6pm until April 21. On April 22, it can be visited from 9am until 4pm.