Net reading: A new popular reading
Nov 04, 2008
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Reading on the Internet has become fashionable in China. It's a trend that has considerable influence over popular trends. In terms of the numbers of readers, more people now read books on line, than the number who continue to show preference for printed works. Publishing houses and book stores are making adjustments to meet the popular trend, with titles more likely to appeal to the public taste.
Xidan Books, one of the largest bookstores in Beijing, still draws book lovers. Many, probably are unfamiliar with the latest winners of China's top literary prize, the Maodun Literary Awards. They may be unaware of what tops best seller lists. But they do know the novels that have become renowned on the Internet.
A student said, "My elder brother recommended that I download novels from the Internet. I enjoy reading that way very much."
"Anecdotes of the Ming Dynasty" and the "Ghost Lantern" are two of the earliest works that attained popularity on the Internet. Later, hard copy editions were published for sale in book stores and the two books became best sellers.
The revelation of the latest trends comes from The Fifth State Poll on Reading by the China Publishing Science Institute. Newspapers are taking the lead as the popular print medium. And for the first time, reading on the Internet has surged ahead. Books read on the Internet have a two per cent edge in popularity over printed works.
A student said, "I love reading net books because it is convenient. I can download a book and read it anytime, anywhere."
Electronic mass media like radio, TV and film also influence today's popular reading choices. Popular TV series and instructional programs have helped to promote the sales of print adaptations.
[From CCTV.com] |
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