Book exhibition highlights ethnic cultures

An exhibition is currently underway in Beijing. But what makes it extra-special is that all the books on display are published in languages used by the many ethnic groups of China.

More than 1,000 book titles are being showcased at this exhibition. All of the texts have been published in languages used by China's 55 ethnic groups, including Mongolian, Tibetan, Uygur and more.

Most of the books are about the history, culture, art and literature of ethnic groups. Classics from each ethnic group are also featured at the exhibition.

Children's books are a big draw too. A collection of children's encyclopaedias and books on popular science, which are translated from Mandarin, are also on display. Organizers believe these books will help young people from ethnic minorities broaden their horizons.

"China has 55 ethnic groups. Many ethnic children can only read books written in their own language. So we translated a lot of Chinese books into ethnic languages. I think they will help ethnic children a lot." Publisher Yu Binxi said.

Book titles on religion are also included. "The Religious Life of Muslims in China" has been translated into five different ethnic languages, and has been published in more than 30 countries.

The exhibition also features electronic books.