'Readers' renews literary fanfare among TV viewers

Presenter Dong Qing hosts the pilot episode of "Readers." [Photo: Sina Weibo/Readers]

A new show on China Central Television (CCTV) called "Readers" has renewed enthusiasm for literature among viewers here in China.

The weekly program invites people from all walks of life to choose their favorite pieces of literary works, either by others or themselves, and read aloud excerpts from their selections. The readers also share their life stories and how their chosen works have impacted them.

Having premiered its pilot episode last Saturday, the show has already generated quite the buzz, receiving many rave reviews online. Some viewers say the show has brought a breath of fresh air to the world of reality TV, which so far has been dominated by singing and dancing competitions, or game shows.

"Readers" is hosted by CCTV presenter Dong Qing. Guests on the first episode included renowned translator Xu Yuanchong, who has translated more than 100 Chinese literary classics to English and French; Liu Chunzhi, the founder of Chinese tech giant Lenovo; physician Jiang Li, who has treated people in war-torn Afghanistan; and Chinese actor Pu Cunxin.

"Readers" comes as the latest of a series of well received TV programs on Chinese literature. More than 1.16 billion viewers reportedly tuned into the second season of "Chinese Poetry Competition," which also aired on CCTV earlier this year.