The annual reading event organized by the Pencil Tree Book Club was held on the afternoon of January 8 at the Royal Naval Overseas League in London. Dozens of Chinese and British guests, united by their shared passion for literature, gathered as planned. Among them were enthusiasts of poetry and prose from various fields, including culture and arts, media publishing, law, finance, and the Chinese community. In a warm, elegant, and inclusive atmosphere with distinct British charm, attendees shared their favorite essays and poems.
The Pencil Tree Book Club was founded by Zhang Huaicun, a Chinese writer and painter residing in the UK. Her aim is to create a platform for cultural exchange between Chinese and British literature enthusiasts, fostering mutual understanding and appreciation through reading and sharing. This year’s event was hosted by Dr Chen Xianyan, Chairperson of Whisky Bank. Notable attendees included Wang Yun, Counsellor of the Cultural Section at the Chinese Embassy in the UK; Dr Lin Chaolun, Royal Translator; renowned British sculptor Guy; Sophia, Manager of the Bank of China’s Chinatown Branch; Yan Jingmin, Manager at China Taiping Insurance; a representative from Bloomsbury Publishing Plc; and several experts from the British Wine Society, among others.
Accompanied by live piano gentle melodies, participants eagerly stepped forward to recite their cherished poems and essays. The venue resonated with laughter and joy, as the charm of literature and art deeply moved every attendee. A particularly touching moment was when Zhang Huaicun Hon RBA, held her nearly 10-month-old granddaughter, Freya, and passionately recited a poem she had written for her. This heartfelt gesture elevated the atmosphere, becoming a highlight of the afternoon.
To love reading is to love life. As guests savoured this rich cultural feast, they also enjoyed a delightful luncheon provided by the club, leaving everyone eagerly anticipating the next literary gathering. A love for reading enables one to continually experience beauty and strength of through words and art.