Nobel Laureate Mo Yan addresses participants of the “Reading Nation” marathon

Nobel Prize in Literature laureate Mo Yan addressed participants of the first nationwide “Reading Nation” reading marathon, wishing readers in Kazakhstan inspiration and new literary discoveries, El.kz reports citing the project organisers.

The Chinese writer noted that his novel Red Sorghum has been translated into Kazakh and included in the list of works selected for the marathon.

“I am very pleased that my novel Red Sorghum has been translated into Kazakh and included in the list of works featured in this marathon,” Mo Yan said.

The writer also recalled his visit to Kazakhstan and his meetings with local authors. According to Mo Yan, his introduction to Kazakh literature was particularly meaningful to him due to the similarities in life experiences reflected in the works of the two literary traditions.

“Kazakh literature is very close and dear to me, because the lives portrayed in your works resonate in many ways with what I myself have experienced,” he noted.

Mo Yan also commented on the marathon itself. He described the nationwide book-reading initiative as an important undertaking for the development of culture and society.

Addressing the participants, the writer encouraged them to maintain their interest in books and their pursuit of knowledge.

“May every page bring light to your hearts and enrich your inner world. May books always remain in your hands, and may your pursuit of knowledge and self-development always be accompanied by success,” Mo Yan said.