PRESENT EVENTS

Please note: From July 1st, unless otherwise stated, you will require tickets to come to events at The Bookworm. Tickets cost 20RMB for Bookworm members and 30RMB for non-members and are available at The Bookworm seven days in advance of each event. The ticket price includes a free glass of wine, beer or soft drink.

For more details on our new ticket policy, please click HERE.

• Date:

  Sunday 4th July - 3pm till late

  Title:

  4th July BBQ & Jam

  Be it on the terrace or within the cool air-conditioned bar, this is all about celebrating freedom, food to share and music for all. With New-York Bassist Mark Kandl leading the acoustic set and open BBQ with cool beer, there is nowher else you'd spend a better match-less Sunday afternoon this July. Contact Mark for Music info on: markfromusa@yahoo.com or 137 - 7604 - 4234

• Date:

  Sunday 4th July - 7.30pm

  Title:

  Free Swing Dancing Classes

  The Suzhou Swing Dancing Association connects you to a worldwide network of fellow swing enthusiasts. In contagious springing mood, George, Loretto and others will show you the basic steps to start sautering to the sound of Fox Trotty Charleston. Thinking you're tired? This is the energy boost you need for fun, effortless exercise and cheek to cheek socialising.

• Date:

  Friday 9th July - 8pm

  Title:

  Steve Sweeting & Josh Milton An Evening of Piano Jazz - with Singers

  Jazz pianist, composer and teacher, Steve is back in town this Friday after a June Music Festival performance that left its audience yearning for more. This time accompanied by long time friend and collaborator singer Josh Milton, they come to interpret Jazz standards as well as re-visit any tune suggested by an increasingly enthusiastic crowd of followers.

• Date:

  Wednesday 7th July - 7.30pm

  Title:

  The Suzhou Bookworm Open Mic Night

  Do not shy away from instant musical glory (on a small scale, fair enough). You do not need a great voice, years of experience, or a slick and groundbreaking new album, although this is also welcome. Just a bit of courage, and at least one song/piece you are ready to perform will put you on stageand guarantee you a free drink. Or if you feel mellow and prefer to lay back, just join us every Wednesday for excellent music of all genre and styles, starting at 8 until late. Free - All welcome. Contact: Mark, markfromusa@yahoo.com or Daniel, daniel_mist@hotmail.com

• Date:

  Sunday 11th July - 7pm

  Title:

  Free Swing Dancing Classes

  The Suzhou Swing Dancing Association connects you to a worldwide network of fellow swing enthusiasts. In contagious springing mood, George, Loretto and others will show you the basic steps to start sauntering to the sound of Fox-Trotty Charleston. Thinking you're tired? This is the energy boost you need for fun, effortless exercise and cheek to cheek socialising. Contact: George, suzhouswing@gmail.com

• Date:

  Wednesday 14th July - 7.30pm

  Title:

  The Suzhou Bookworm Open Mic Night

  Do not shy away from instant musical glory (on a small scale, fair enough). You do not need a great voice, years of experience, or a slick and groundbreaking new album, although this is also welcome. Just a bit of courage, and at least one song/piece you are ready to perform will put you on stageand guarantee you a free drink. Or if you feel mellow and prefer to lay back, just join us every Wednesday for excellent music of all genre and styles, starting at 8 until late. Free - All welcome. Contact: Mark, markfromusa@yahoo.com or Daniel, daniel_mist@hotmail.com

• Date:

  Thursday 15th July - 7.30pm

  Title:

  The Bookworm at Casa Zoe: Doing Business in China - A Guide to the Risks and Rewards. A Book Talk with Christopher Torrens

  Christopher Torrens is a China specialist with Control Risks (a global consultancy) and was its Director of Corporate Investigations for China, He has worked in China for 16 years and speaks Mandarin. In ??Doing Business in China??, he examines strategies that have succeeded and those that have failed in navigating challenges faced by foreign companies in the keystone and very idiosyncratic market that is China.

• Date:

  Sunday 18th July - 7pm

  Title:

  Free Swing Dancing Classes

  The Suzhou Swing Dancing Association connects you to a worldwide network of fellow swing enthusiasts. In contagious springing mood, George, Loretto and others will show you the basic steps to start sautering to the sound of Fox Trotty Charleston. Thinking you're tired? This is the energy boost you need for fun, effortless exercise and cheek to cheek socialising. Contact: George, suzhouswing@gmail.com

• Date:

  Sunday 18th July - 5.30pm

  Title:

  Visions of China: A Series of Screenings & Discussion on Chinese Cinema. So Close to Paradise: A 1998 Film by Wang Xiaoshuai

  Wang Xiaoshuai was born in 1966 in Shanghai but grew up in Southern China, where he started painting, inspired by Guizhous picturesque landscapes. One of the first independent filmmakers in China, Wang struggled along the 90??s to find funds for productions that now rate as genre classics. His third feature ??So close to Paradise?? is a thriller set in the trading city of Wuhan, involving migrant workers and petty underworld gangsters, as well as the miseries following China??s rapid industrialisation.

• Date:

  Saturday 24th July - 7.30pm

  Title:

  Global Shanghai/China 21st Century Guide - A Book Talk with Jeffrey Wasserstrom.

  The need to understand this global giant has never been more pressing: China is constantly in the news, yet conflicting impressions abound. Jeffrey Wasserstrom provides cogent answers to the most urgent questions regarding the newest superpower and offers a framework for understanding its meteoric rise. Focusing his answers through the historical legacies that largely define China's present-day trajectory, Wasserstrom introduces readers to the Chinese Communist Party, the building boom in Shanghai, and the environmental fall-out of rapid Chinese industrialization. He also explains unique aspects of Chinese culture such as the one-child policy, and provides insight into how Chinese view Americans. Revealing how China today shares many traits with industrialized nations during their periods of development Jeffrey Wasserstrom provides guidance on the ways we can expect China to act in the future vis-a-vis the United States, Russia, India, and its East Asian neighbors.

• Date:

  Saturday 24th July - 7:30pm

  Title:

  Suzhou Indie Rock - Yihong Yuan

  Iconoclastic Suzhou band Yihong Yuan play classic vintage rock as well as purely underground material. Having grown with the Doors, Velvet Underground and Pavement as their main leads into modern Rock, they are now to be found in improbable old town venues for improvising gigs that set their crowds ablaze. A rare example of highly creative and totally independent homegrown music, they are playing the Bookworm this weekend for a special summer concert ?C entirely free and spirited.

• Date:

  Wednesday 28th July - 7:30pm

  Title:

  The Suzhou Bookworm Open Mic Night

  Do not shy away from instant musical glory (on a small scale, fair enough). You do not need a great voice, years of experience, or a slick and groundbreaking new album, although this is also welcome. Just a bit of courage, and at least one song/piece you are ready to perform will put you on stageand guarantee you a free drink. Or if you feel mellow and prefer to lay back, just join us every Wednesday for excellent music of all genre and styles, starting at 8 until late. Free - All welcome. Contact: Mark, markfromusa@yahoo.com or Daniel, daniel_mist@hotmail.com

FUTURE EVENTS

The Bookworm seven days in advance of each event. The ticket price includes a free glass of wine, beer or soft drink. The ticket price includes a free glass of wine, beer or soft drink.

For more details on our new ticket policy, please click HERE.

• Date:

  Friday 6th August - 7:00pm

  Title:

  Latin Fever - An Evening of Free Dancing

  Want to get to know some like-minded language learners? Wish you could do it in pace with the music? Would sooo like that music to be hip-tingling and sensually sweet? Come over this Friday, and discover how easy salsa can be, when introduced by local teacher and entertainer RC ?C Free Entry to all Bookworm customers

• Date:

  Sunday 8th August - 7:00pm

  Title:

  Classics at the 'Worm: "The Italian Job"

  From this August onwards, The Bookworm will screen one English language classic once a month on a Sunday afternoon. Subtitled in Chinese, this month??s pick is an absolute cracker of a thriller: Michael Caine and Benny Hill star in an hilarious story of heist and car chases going ever further on the wrong side of the road to wealth. Beautiful sceneries of Europe and snappy English humour await you in this 1969 classic of all classics

• Date:

  Wednesday 18th & 25th August - 7:30pm

  Title:

  Music is a Global Language Special Open Mic Nights at The Bookworm

  As the year starts again, this is the opportunity or never to meet with the Suzhou music community through the town??s leading regular musical event: Tonight and for two Wednesday only, first time performers at The Bookworm??s Open Mic Night will receive a free Jazz CD, as well as the usual drink on the house. Wherever you are from, whichever music you play ?C Yours is a Global Language, waiting to be heard. See you soon at the Bookworm.

• Date:

  Sunday 22nd August - 5.30pm

  Title:

  Visions of China: A Series of Screenings & Discussion on Chinese Cinema Blind Mountain - A 2007 film by Li Yang.

  Blind Mountain, Li Yang??s second feature, is part of a highly picturesque trilogy aimed at describing lesser known corners of Chinese society. A brilliantly visual work, th efilm focuses on the issue of human trafficking, through the story of two university students. Shot with an untirely non-professional cast in next to real life conditions, the film shocks by its brutal and raw depiction of some deeply rooted archaisms in Chinese rural society, and the pains these cause to a generation trying to grow up. Received to a standing ovation at its first screening in Cannes 2007, ??Blind Mountain?? is a film to discover, one of the most striking example of neo-realist independent cinema in China

• Date:

  Tuesday 24th August - 7.30pm:

  Title:

  The Bookworm's Quiz Trivia Night

  For Geniuses? Or perhaps more simply, for those who fancy games, drinks and laughter over the silliest to the cleverest questions, with great prizes at the end. Come with your team, or find one on the night, for a 90 minutes run of 7 rounds on subjects as varied as music, TV shows, pictures or Suzhou architecture. Three best teams get a free bottle of Whisky or wine!

• Date:

  Sunday 29th August - 3:00pm

  Title:

  A HUNDRED YEARS IN FIFTY MINUTES - SHANGHAI'S EXPAT HISTORY A Talk and Discussion with Shanghai History Expert Tess Johnston

  Tess Johnston spent a life in the US Diplomatic Service, wandering through 14 postings over 40 years ?C including Vietnam, Berlin and Paris. Her latest, now a ??permanently temporary?? home, was Shanghai, where she has lived and worked for over 25 years, becoming one of the most respected local historians. Her talk, as the title implies, is a zip through the history of the Western presence in Shanghai, from 1842 to 1949. Ms. Johnston gives a short anecdotal history of each wave of foreigners who came to Shanghai, explaining with slapstick humour and cracking anecdotes their contributions to the growth of the city, and what they left behind for posterity.

• Date:

  Monday 30th August - 7.30m:

  Title:

  Free Chinese Corner, With New Concept Mandarin

  Take the leap: learning Chinese is not as hard as it seems, and it really is good fun. Qualified teachers form leading Language training institution New Concept Madarin welcome you at the cosy Bookworm library for an introduction to the subtleties of Chinese pronunciation and speech. Let yourself be guided, and charmed, into free conversation. All levels welcome ?C Free.

PAST EVENTS

Plase see below for an alphabetical list of previous speakers to have appeared at The Bookworm.

• ●

  ●

  The Suzhou Bookworm Open Mic Night

  ●

  THe Suzhou Bookworm's Open Mic Night (Read More)

  It??s now a well established Suzhou Tradition ?C every Wednesday, at the Bookworm, music buffs meet and socialize in most homely surroundings, to the sound of Classic, Jazz, Rock or Folk. Whatever your age or instrument, you are invited to join the fun as a performer - that will get you a free drink! - or one of the bustling audience, and make great musical friends. All participants are offered a free drink, and the mic to sing/play in for about 20 minutes. To Book a spot early, please email Mark, markfromusa@yahoo.com or Daniel, daniel_mist@hotmail.com

  ●

  Abrahamsen, Eric - The Essays of George Orwell (Read More)

  As part of our series of Penguin Classics Literary Lunches, writer and translator Eric Abrahamsen explores the essays and polemic of the great George Orwell. Describing Orwell's zero tolerance for sloppy language and political doublespeak, Abrahamsen makes fresh observations on the relevance of Orwell's work for China.

  ●

  Becker, Jasper - North Korea: Rogue Regime (Read More)

  Veteran correspondent Jasper Becker (The Chinese, Hungry Ghosts, Dragon Rising) brings his unique insight and vast experience as a journalist in Asia to bear in his latest book, this time exposing the fascinating world of the hermit kingdom, North Korea. North Korea: Rogue Regime explores life for the world's most isolated citizens, investigates the life of Kim Jong Il, and poses the ultimate question: should the nations of the world allow this regime to survive?

  ●

  Brooks, Geraldine - March (Read More)

  A matter of weeks after being awarded this year's Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, Bookworm are delighted to play host to writer Geraldine Brooks. Having served as a war correspondent in some of the world's most conflict-ravaged areas, and now a respected commentator for the New York Times, the standard of Brooks'fiction clearly matches that of her journalism. Tonight Bookworm audiences are treated to a reading from her prize winning novel March, which takes as it's inspiration the character of Mr March from Louisa May Alcott's much-loved Little Women.

  ●

  Brown, Lester - Plan B (Read More)

  Author Lester Brown, founder of the Worldwatch Institute and head of the Earth Policy Institute, makes a special Bookworm appearance to discuss his new book, Plan B: Rescuing a Planet Under Stress and a Civilisation in Trouble. As well as highlighting the terrible things we're doing to our planet, Lester Brown also provides helpful, practical approaches and solutions to some of the biggest challenges facing the environment today.

  ●

  Chang, Gordon - North Korea: Nuclear Showdown (Read More)

  Asia expert Gordon Chang follows up his controversial success, The Coming Collapse of China, with the first book to discuss the full extent of the North Korean nuclear threat, its origins, international implications, and possible solutions.

  ●

  Fan Wu - February Flowers (Read More)

  Fan Wu represents a new wave of Chinese writers living and working overseas but drawing on their formative years in China as inspiration for fresh, lively and necessary writing. Her first novel, February Flowers was chosen by Pan Macmillan as the novel to launch their brand new publishing imprint, Picador Asia, headed up by Toby Eadie, best known for bringing Chinese writers such as Jung Chang and Xinran to international audiences.

  ●

  Friedman, Thomas - The World is Flat (Read More)

  Foreign Affairs columnist for The New York Times, Thomas Friedman is a world renowned commentator on the forces political, cultural and economic that are changing and shaping the world as we know it. Thrice winner of the Pulitzer Prize, he discusses his prize winning book 'The World is Flat' (Goldman Sachs Business Book of the Year 2005) with Bookworm audiences.

  ●

  Gray, Nathan Hotorua - First Pass Under Heaven (Read More)

  Nathan Gray was part of a five man team who attempted the dizzying feat of walking the length of the Great Wall in 2004. His book, First Pass Under Heaven, describes their fascinating adventure, which eventually included everything from being struck by lightning to being held in police custody. Tonight he reads excerpts from First Pass, as well as inviting some Maori friends along to bless the evening's proceedings...

  ●

  Jocelyn, Ed - The Long March (Read More)

  In 2003, Ed Jocelyn and Andy McEwen walked the entire trail followed by the 5th Red Army in 1934. Famously arduous, and spanning somewhere in the region of 5000km, the journey was certainly not for the faint hearted. Begun as a social history project to interview veterans of the original Communist Long March, Ed and Andy's journey became first a sensational story in the Chinese media, and then a successful book, published in the UK by Constable and Robinson. But while Andy promoted the book, Ed was off completing 'The Long March 2' - exploring the routes taken by the less famous red armies during the 1930's. Tonight he describes his second long march, which this time brought him into contact with many of the ethnic minorities who live in China's remote Western regions.

  ●

  Karen Smith - 'Nine Lives' a booktalk (Read More)

  Since Karen Smith first completed the manuscript for her critically acclaimed study of the lives of nine contemporary Chinese artists in 2005, a great deal has changed. With the explosion of interest in Chinese art following the equally explosive market that emerged in spring 2006, a new, updated edition of Nine Lives was evidently necessary. Tonight she launches the revised updated edition, charting the dizzying changes shaping the Chinese art market from within, and without, through the eyes of her nine original subjects.Karen Smith is one of the foremost Western commentators on Chinese contemporary art, writing for numerous worldwide publications and serving as a consultant, critic and curator for such prestigious institutions as the Tate International Council, the board of the New York Museum and the Museum of Modern Art, NY. Don't miss her fascinating insights on one of the most dynamic aspects of Chinese culture today.

  ●

  Kynge, James - China Shakes the World (Read More)

  Winner of the Goldman Sachs Business Book of the Year 2006, China Shakes the World has quickly risen to the top of the list of 'China must reads' for anyone interested in the political and social future of China, and the impact its unstoppable rise is having on everyone else. Financial Times correspondent and seasoned China-watcher James Kynge is an essential voice in the debat - not to be missed!

  ●

  Mike Meyer - The Last Days of Old Beijing (Read More)

  Long term Beijing resident and journalist Mike Meyer decamped to a hutong in Dazhalanr for two years to experience hutong life as an insider, just as he perceived that way of life to be in rapid decline. Receiving glorious reviews from fellow China watchers, journalists and the publishing world in general, his fascinating insights are a must-read. Don't miss his appearance, on the back of his sell-out US book tour, at The Bookworm on Aug 5th.

  ●

  Pilkington, Doris - Follow the Rabbit Proof Fence (Read More)

  Doris Pilkington (Nugi Garimara) was born on Balfour Downs Station in Western Australia. As a toddler she was removed by authorities from her home, along with her mother Molly Craig and baby sister, and committed to Moore River Native Settlement, the same institution Molly had escaped from ten years previously, the story of which is told in Pilkington's Follow the Rabbit-Proof Fence. Internationally acclaimed, and filmed as 'Rabbit Proof Fence' in 2002, Doris Pilkington's story is by turns touching and shocking.

  ●

  Pomfret, John - Chinese Lessons (Read More)

  A rare opportunity to hear from John Pomfret, an award winning journalist currently firmly positioned at the top of the hotlist of China commentators. John Pomfret came to China to study at Nanjing University in 1981. Immersing himself in Chinese society and culture, he gained a unique insight into China at a time when few foreigners had the opportunity. His brand new book, 'Chinese Lessons', published in August this year, tells the stories of his classmates at Nan Da, recounting how their lives have been shaped by the rise of 'new China'over the past thirty years.

  ●

  Rittenberg, Sidney - The Man Who Stayed Behind (Read More)

  In China from World War Two until the eve of the economic reforms at the end of the 1970's, Sidney Rittenberg saw the change and development of China throughout three and a half turbulent decades as no other foreigner could. Member of the Communist party, translator to Mao, and eventually a political prisoner, Rittenberg endured unbelievable hardship, whilst maintaining an unshakeable faith in China and the Chinese people. This talk represents a unique opportunity to hear from a truly remarkable 'old China hand.'

  ●

  Sichuan Photo Projection (Read More)

  When the deadly earthquake struck Sichuan Province on May 12th 2008, many dedicated photographers and journalists traveled down to the region to report and document the aftermath of the tragic event. Tonight, a group of internationally acclaimed photographers will project a series of poignant images taken in the days that followed. Combined, these pictures tell the heartfelt stories of the multitudes of people whose lives were affected by China's worst natural disaster in recent years.

  ●

  Party at Pingjiang Lu (Read More)

  Come and join us in celebrating our newest branch in Suzhou! From 7 until midnight we will have all you can eat and drink for 100 RMB! Live jazz and rock music all night. For those who don't know, the Pingjiang Bookworm is located on a small, Unesco heritage preseved street, lined with trees, directly above one of Suzhou's famous canals. So come and party by the canal!

  ●

  Trivia Quiz Night (Read More)

  Come and test your knowledge at our bi-weekly quiz nights! Anyone can join, entrance is free. Prizes for the winning team and two runners up!

  ●

  Chinese Corner (Read More)

  Beginning Monday September 15th, the Suzhou Institute of Sichuan University will be holding FREE Chinese classes at the Bookworm on Shiquan Jie. Wheither you want to brush up on your Chinese, or start from scratch, join us from 7:30-9:00.

  ●

  Open Jam Mike Night (Read More)

  Calling all musicians and music lovers! Come in and listen to local talent play their hearts out. Blues, Rock, Funk, Folk Jam session every Wednesday at the Bookworm. Anyone who can play an instrument or carry a tune is more than welcome to join in!

  ●

  The Kid's Corner (Read More)

  The Kid's Corner: Every Sunday from 1-2 PM, drop the kids off for an hour of storytelling and fun activities, while you put your feet up and relax with a newspaper and coffee.

  ●

  The Bookworm Book Club is back!! (Read More)

  Every month, local bookworms get together to discuss a new book, be it a classic of English literature, or a new publication. Anyone can join, admission is free. Join us on the last Sunday of every month as we calmly discuss (or viciously debate) our latest pick! Our first meeting will be Sunday, September 28th, at 7:00 at the Bookworm on Pingjiang Lu.

  ●

  Bookworm Trivia Quiz night (Read More)

  Our bi weekly quiz will test you in ways you can't imagine! Come as a team, or join one on the very night. Entry is free and prizes are on hand for the top 3 winning teams! All you need to enter is a team of up to 10 participants, a catchy team name and be willing to heckle the quizmaster.

  ●

  The Bookworm Open Jam Music Night (Read More)

  Call all musicians and music lovers! Come in and listen to local talent play their hearts out. Blues, Rock, Funk, Folk Jam session every Wednesday at the Bookworm. Anyone who can play an instrument or carry a tune is more than welcome to join in! Entrance is free. We've got guitars, drums, and piano already set up for you when you arrive. Anyone who is willing the host the one of the jams is also more than welcome!

  ●

  Chinese Corner (Read More)

  The Suzhou Institute of Sichuan University offers free Chinese corners every other Monday at the Bookworm. With topics ranging from small talk, shopping, ordering in a restaurant and travelling in China, this corner will help anyone just starting to learn, to those who want to brush up on the language. All levels are welcome, entrance is free, please reserve ahead of time. They corner is divided into several groups, to accommodate the different levels of Chinese, from beginner to advanced. Held at the Pingjiang Lu Bookworm.

  ●

  The Bookworm Kid's Corner (Read More)

  Come and bring the kid's for an hour of reading and fun activities! Every week we explore a new book, and have activities to encourage the love of reading. 20 RMB/Child All ages welcome!

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  Workshop with Poet-in-Residence Peter Bakowski (Read More)

  This workshop is suitable for all writers, be they aspiring or published. Peter Bakowski focuses his attention on how to release one's imagination, face the blank page, and create something unique and well crafted. 50 RMB entrance fee 40 RMB for members of the Bookworm

  ●

  Book talk with Author Linda Jaivin (Read More)

  Acclaimed author Linda Jaivin comes to Suzhou to present a fascinating introduction to her eclectic work which ranges from erotic fiction to Chinese history! 30 RMB entrance fee, includes a glass of wine or soft drink. 20 RMB entrance for members of the Bookworm, includes a glass of wine and a soft drink.

  ●

  Workshop with author Linda Jaivin (Read More)

  Author Linda Jaivin runs a workshop aiming to equip participants with a 'toolbox' of skills and ideas with which to write fiction. With a body of work ranging from erotica to Chinese fiction, the workshop is heavily based on writing, building and creating a character. 50 RMB entrance fee 40 RMB for members of the Bookworm

  ●

  Poetry reading with Peter Bakowski (Read More)

  Acclaimed poet Peter Bakowski is the Bookworm Suzhou's first poet-in-residence! His poems have been translated into a dozen languages, and his volume of poems won the Victorian Premiers Award for Poetry. Tonight, he reads some of his best loved poems, and talks about his experiences as a writer. 30 RMB entrance fee, includes a glass of wine or soft drink. 20 RMB entrance for members of the Bookworm, includes a glass of wine and a soft drink.

  ●

  The Bookworm Book Club (Read More)

  Every month, local bookworms get together to discuss a new book, be it a classic of English literature, or a new publication. Anyone can join, admission is free. Join us on the last Sunday of every month as we calmly discuss (or viciously debate) our latest pick! New books are chosen by members of the club, so please come and make a suggestion of what we should read. Please note: This event will now take place at our new location, The Bookworm on Pingjiang Lu.

  ●

  Author Peter Hibbard: FROM THE BUND TO THE BUBBLING WELL SHANGHAI - STEPS IN THE MAKING OF A MODERN METROPOLIS (Read More)

  With the aid of a highly illustrated slide show Hibbard will plot the inimitable development of Shanghai as an international city, from its earliest days to the present, with a particular emphasis on British interests in days of old. Shanghai-based Peter Hibbard has a background in urban planning and urban sociology, but decided to turn his attention to the development of the Chinese tourism industry in 1983. He was a visiting scholar at Hong Kong University??s Centre of Asian Studies in 1985/86 and lectured in tourism studies at the Beijing Institute of Tourism from 1988-1900 before moving to Shanghai in 1991. He has devoted his life to researching the historical development of tourism in China and to plotting the historical development of Shanghai and offers exclusive private tours in the city. Peter has produced a wide range of publications and is author of The Bund Shanghai: China Faces West and the Shanghai section of Odyssey??s Beijing and Shanghai: China??s Hottest Cities. He is currently project historian for HBA architects in the restoration of the north wing of the Peace Hotel and President of the recently resurrected Royal Asiatic Society China in Shanghai. His next book From the Bund to the Bubbling Well Shanghai: Steps in the Making of a Modern Metropolis will be out next year.

  ●

  Professor and Translation expert, Jimmy Doo, at The Bookworm (Read More)

  An expert on language education and translation, Professor Doo will provide insight to anyone interested in either English or Chinese. Professor Doo will discuss translation of songs and literature, and how he strives to preserve the original meaning and feel. Whether you're an advanced student or just someone with casual interest, this talk promises to deepen your understanding of Chinese and English interpretation. Prof. Jimmy Doo (Du Zhengming) is a professor of English at Suzhou University, supervisor of graduate students in Translation Studies, teaching mainly the graduate students' compulsory course of Comparative Studies of English and Chinese and Simultaneous Interpretation. He has over 20 years' experience in translation and interpretation and has published dozens of books and articles on a variety of subjects in the field of language education, translation studies and practice, culture, etc. Presently he is writing two other books, namely 500 Exemplary Instances of Fast Quality Translation and Simultaneous Interpretation and English on the Way (series). His Natural English Learning will come out by the end of the year, and his next plan is to publish a book on Chinese Language and Culture.

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  ●

  International Modern Art in Suzhou: Nathanael Pelton & Daniel Arnold-Mist (Read More)

  The Other Side ?C Nathan Pelton With 150 million migrant workers in China moving from the poor rural countryside to cities experiencing an upheaval of change, most do not benefit much from the country ??s development. Their life in the city is incredibly stressful and difficult: long hours, low salaries, poor living conditions, struggle to find employment. They are truly marginalized. Nathan??s work in The Other Side explores Chinese migrant workers?? struggles and draws parallels between marginalized people everywhere. Trained as a painter and biologist, Nathan Pelton spent a large amount of time seeking his own creativity in the forests of the Appalachian Mountains. Moving Suzhou to work among urban migrant worker communities, Nathan was inspired by their situation and started constructing installations and photographing landscapes.. A number of these recent installations have shown in exhibitions and projects in China and the US. www.nathanaelpelton.com Equilibrium ?C Daniel Arnold-Mist Daniel Arnold-Mist started his discovery of digital art 10 years ago working for game and movie companies. As a classically trained artist, his progression to the digital realm gave him the freedom to truly experiment with a then unheard of art medium. Daniel??s work have been said to be incredibly detailed and surreal, combining real world situations with the bizarre, and have been published in multiple books. In 2009 he was awarded the title of ??Digital Art Master??, a title which is given to only a handful of artists each year. His works have been displayed in multiple galleries across the world, including ??The Agora Gallery?? in New York, and ??The Tate Modern?? in London. The ??Bookworm?? exhibition will be Daniel??s debut to China bringing something totally unique to the Chinese Art Scene.

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  The Bookworm's Open Mic Night (Read More)

  Contact Dave for info: davematthews611@hotmail.com A Free Pint to all participants!

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  World Fair Trade Day: Information and Sales of Fair Trade Products. (Read More)

  World Fair Trade Day is an initiative of the World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO, www.wfto.com) and is being supported by thousands of citizens, Fair Trade Organizations, social and environmental movements, producers and consumers all around the planet. The World Fair Trade Organization is the global network of Fair Trade Organizations around the planet and represents more than 350 Fair Trade Organizations. Events celebrating WFT Day are being organized by hundreds of different organizations worldwide, including China's iFAIR, the first fair trade organization in China, active in promoting community work and the distribution of handicrafts produced by local indigenous communities in China. The Bookworm offers a platform for exchange, discussion and information throughout the weekend, with a sale of fair trade products by The Green House, based in Suzhou's Pingjiang district.

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  Saturday Night Live at the Bookworm: Substitute (Read More)

  Music is a global Language! Sub-sti-tute / noun /: Person or thing taking the place of (another). On Saturday May 8th, Substitute take centre stage once again at the Bookworm. Suzhou??s one and only Indie Rock Band play a set of inspirational covers as well as their own originals: they are the Substitute to the Suzhou music scene. On drums, Francois Perreault hailing from Quebec City, Canada brings his own unique style and is by far the most exciting drummer you??re likely to see. On bass Aaron (Plonk) Krajeski from Virgina, USA is a multi talented instrumentalist who plays the bass like a lead guitar. On guitar and vocals, Rich Moreton from Swindon, England who was a DJ for ten years has now turned his hand to the guitar and song writing. Substitute??s debut album ??A Long Way from Home?? is due for release in June 2010.

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  Free Swing Dancing Group Class (Read More)

  Loretta and the Suzhou Swing Dancing Association welcome you for free dancing sessions Everyone invited to join in and let their limbs loose! Beginners, advanced, join in and dance away the weekend!!!

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  The Bookworm's Trivia Quiz Night - With Guy Leivin (Read More)

  Bring a team or join one on the night, and come test your knowledge of all things trivial. Entrance is free, and there are great prizes on offer. All you need to enter is a team of up to 9 participants, a catchy team name and be willing to heckle the quizmaster!

  ●

  The Bookworm's Open Mic Night (Read More)

  Contact Dave for info: davematthews611@hotmail.com A Free Pint to all participants!

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  Adam Williams: The Book of the Alchemist (Read More)

  Writer, speaker, businessman and novelist Adam Williams is the author of three acclaimed historical novels: The Palace of Heavenly Pleasure, The Emperor's Bones and The Dragon's Tail. Twenty years a businessman and banker in Beijing, he is the fourth generation of his family to be living and working in China. Tonight he comes to the Bookworm to introduce his latest work, The Book of the Alchemist, an engrossing adventure story starting in Andalusia in 1077, and resurfacing nearly nine centuries later in the tormented era of the Spanish Civil War. Come and hear tales of adventures throughout the ages, with China's favourite English language novelist, followed tomorrow by his beautiful wife, the inspirational Chinese writer Hong Ying.

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  Hong Ying: The Concubine of Shanghai (Read More)

  Hong Ying was born in Chongqing in 1962 into a sailor's family. The sixth of eight children, she endured poverty and hunger in the Great Famine and the Cultural Revolution, before starting a career as a writer in the early 1980s, one of very few freelancers at the time. Hong Ying settled in London in 1991, and has published several widely acclaimed books in China and worldwide. Her autobiography Daughter of the River has been translated and published into 16 languages, as well as several of her fiction works. Recently married to bestselling novelist Adam Williams, she comes with him to The Bookworm for a weekend of amazing literary quality, and a Sunday a talk on her tantalizing latest novel: The Concubine of Shanghai.

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  Free Swing Dancing Group Class (Read More)

  Loretta and the Suzhou Swing Dancing Association welcome you for free dancing sessions Everyone invited to join in and let their limbs loose! Beginners, advanced, join in and dance away the weekend!!!

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  The Bookworm's Open Mic Night (Read More)

  Contact Dave for info: davematthews611@hotmail.com A Free Pint to all participants!

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  Keyway Hosts: NGOs, Non-profits and Volunteers in China (Read More)

  SHINE is a Keyway program that connects caring people with schools for migrant children in Suzhou. The English teaching programs are taught by volunteers, and seek to give the marginalized students a competitive advantage in their studies. Tonight Nathan Pelto Tonight Brian Coffman and Nathan Pelton introduce their personal experience working for a foreign NGO in China, taking part in nationwide non-profit organisation networks and working on the ground with migrant workers. The talk will include participation from local partners and volunteers, as well as a Q&A session. All are welcome.

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  NGOs in Suzhou: Introducing Local Volunteering Organisations. (Read More)

  As part of an ongoing partnership with Keyway China, The Bookworm wishes to provide a platform for local non-profit organisations in Suzhou to publicise their action, and meet with those in the community who are interested in volunteering. Keyway and partnering organisations will be present at the Bookworm through the weekend, providing information and advertising for their cause. Entrance is free and no commitment is required.

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  The Bookworm's Trivia Quiz Night, with Con Knudson (Read More)

  Bring a team or join one on the night, and come test your knowledge of all things trivial. Entrance is free, and there are great prizes on offer. All you need to enter is a team of up to 9 participants, a catchy team name and be willing to heckle the quizmaster!

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  Tom Carter: China - Portrait of a People (Read More)

  An internationally published freelance photographer and travel writer, Tom has traveled extensively throughout all 33 Chinese provinces and autonomous regions before publishing 'CHINA: Portrait of a People,' the most comprehensive collection of imagery of contemporary China ever published by a single author. Tonight he shares his experiences through the Middle Kingdom and India, seeking out photo opportunities and human experiences.

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  Free Swing Dancing Group Classes (Read More)

  Loretta and the Suzhou Swing Dancing Association welcome you for free dancing sessions Everyone invited to join in and let their limbs loose! Beginners, advanced, join in and dance away the weekend!!! Info: Loretta: 13776084223

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  The Suzhou Bookworm's Weekly Open Mic Night (Read More)

  All Welcome! Whether you play the Guzheng, Bongo drums, Alternative Rock or classical Jazz, just put your name down on the list and let inspiration flow. All participants are offered a free drink, and the mic to sing/play in for about 20 minutes. To Book a slot early, please email alexislefranc@suzhoubookworm.com

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  Visions of China: A Series of Screenings & Discussion on Chinese Cinema - East Palace/West Palace, A 1996 Film by Zhang Yuan (Read More)

  East Palace, West Palace (Dong gong xi gong) is commonly referred to as the first of Sixth Generation Chinese movies. Following the long gestation of a modern school of cinema in the eighties, with the likes of Zhang Yimou or Chen Kaige breaking on the international scene, young sixth generation directors were undistrubed by scars from the past and chose to focus on dramatic contemporary issues. East Palace, West Palace is the first mainland movie to deal explicitly with homosexuality, deriving its title from two parks on either side of the Forbidden City where public washrooms were notorious nightly places of congregation for Beijing??s gay community. Shot in the spring of 1996, the film was smuggled out of China for post-production in France and premiered at the Mar del Plata Film Festival in Argentina in November 1996. Today??s screening includes a short introduction, and will be followed by discussion with Chinese author Annie Wang.

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  Free Swing Dancing Group Class (Read More)

  Loretta and the Suzhou Swing Dancing Association welcome you for free dancing sessions Everyone invited to join in and let their limbs loose. Beginners, advanced, join in and dance away the weekend!!! Info: Loretta: 13776084223

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  The Bookworm's Tuesday Trivia Quiz Night (Read More)

  Bring a team or join one on the night, and come test your knowledge of all things trivial. Entrance is free, nibbles are provided and there are great prizes on offer. All you need to enter is a team of 4 to 6, or join one on the night! You'll find a catchy team name and more than one way to heckle the quizmaster for a guaranteed intense 90 minutes of mind boggling questions and luminous answers.

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  The Suzhou Bookworm's Weekly Open Mic Night (Read More)

  All Welcome! Whether you play the Guzheng, Bongo drums, Alternative Rock or classical Jazz, just put your name down on the list and let inspiration flow. All participants are offered a free drink, and the mic to sing/play in for about 20 minutes. To Book a slot early, please email alexislefranc@suzhoubookworm.com

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  Phantom Shanghai , A Book Talk with Greg Girard (Read More)

  Shanghai has been little changed physically since Mao established the Peoples Republic in 1949, but in the mid-1990s the city began an accelerated programme of industrial and economic development. Photographer Greg Girard??s series Phantom Shanghai depicts the effects of this transformation in a style that balances lyricism and anthropology, accompanied by a collection of stunning photos of Shanghai houses with a foreword by no less than the sci-fi legend William Gibson. With a new edition coming out in the next few months, Greg visits The Suzhou Bookworm this Sunday to talk about the book, Shanghai, show some of his numerous photos and vast body of work.

  ●

  Free Swing Dancing Group Class (Read More)

  Loretta and the Suzhou Swing Dancing Association welcome you for free dancing sessions Everyone invited to join in and let their limbs loose! Beginners, advanced, join in and dance away the weekend!!!

  ●

  The Bookworm's Open Mic Night (Read More)

  All Welcome! Whether you play the Guzheng, Bongo drums, Alternative Rock or classical Jazz, just put your name down on the list and let inspiration flow. All participants are offered a free drink, and the mic to sing/play in for about 20 minutes.

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  The Suzhou Bookworm Music Festival!!!!!!!!!!

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  Xinyuan - A Set of Traditional Chinese Folk Songs (Read More)

  Founded in 2004, The Xinyuan traditional folk music band is made of expert professional musicians versed in China??s classical instruments: erhu, pipa, dulcimer and Sheng. Band founder Mr Guan is one of Suzhou??s leading flutists, dedicating his time and endeavour to keeping the city??s musical heritage alive.

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  Shanghai Piano Jazz with Steve Sweeting (Read More)

  Steve Sweeting is a jazz pianist, composer and teacher from New York City. Hailed by the NY Times as "a superb pianist??, Steve has been a much sought-after accompanist in New York??s cabaret, musical theatre and jazz worlds and was teaching jazz history at Harvard University for five years. After performing and teaching professionally for overt twenty years, his passion for new musical genres led him to Brazil and Bangladesh where he studied hand percussion (djembe, timbal and tabla). Steve has performed all over the world and has directed numerous New York cabarets and shows in Boston and Italy, as well as being a member of the BMI Musical Theatre Workshop in New York as a composer. In 2006, he moved to Shanghai where he began a collaborative series with Chinese jazz vocalists at the Two Cities Gallery and started teaching at The JZ School, Shanghai's only facility dedicated specifically to Jazz instruction. In 2008, he released an album with Shanghai singer and lyricist Jasmine Chen, offering fascinating new takes on jazz standards, incorporating classics from Brazil and Chinese folk songs.

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  The Last Waltz: Substitute's Final Bow, with Friends (Read More)

  7.00: Substitute. Play Indie Rock for the very last time!! 9:00: Green Tea. Local 4 piece band make their debut. 10:00: Daniel Arnold-Mist. Innovative acoustic guitar set. Followed by all out Jam until Late. It??s been a long road for Substitute, now a definitive powerhouse trio playing their own originals treating love, life and loss to a select cover set of inspirational songs. Sadly, they??ve now hit their stride as the band is to split on June 19th following decisions by band members to choose paths leading in different directions. This will be their last performance: The Last Waltz. Substitute: Francois Perrot - Drums/Vocals, Aaron Krajesky - Bass/Vocals, Rich Moreton - Guitar/Vocals. Sub-sti-tute /noun/: person or thing taking the place of (another).

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  Shanghai Folk Rock United (Read More)

  Shanghai based musician and writer Liu Jian leads a musical foursome into the wild and little explored plains of modern folk rock.

  ●

  Free Swing Dancing Group Class (Read More)

  Loretta and the Suzhou Swing Dancing Association welcome you for free dancing sessions Everyone invited to join in and let their limbs loose! Beginners, advanced, join in and dance away the weekend!!!

  ●

  The Bookworm's Trivia Quiz Night (Read More)

  Bring a team or join one on the night, and come test your knowledge of all things trivial. Entrance is free, and there are great prizes on offer. All you need to enter is a team of up to 9 participants, a catchy team name and be willing to heckle the quizmaster!

  ●

  The Bookworm's Open Mic Night (Read More)

  All Welcome! Whether you play the Guzheng, Bongo drums, Alternative Rock or classical Jazz, just put your name down on the list and let inspiration flow. All participants are offered a free drink, and the mic to sing/play in for about 20 minutes.

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  Ten Walks/Two Walks: A Book Talk with Andy Fitch (Read More)

  Ten Walks/Two Talks updates the meandering and meditative form of ancient Basho??s travel diaries. Mapping 21st-century New York, authors Cotner and Fitch tap their predecessor??s collaborative tendencies in order to construct a descriptive/dialogic fugue. The book combines a series of walks around Manhattan and a pair of dialogues about walking??one of which takes place during a late-night ??philosophical?? ramble through Central Park.

  ●

  Free Swing Dancing Group Class (Read More)

  Loretta and the Suzhou Swing Dancing Association welcome you for free dancing sessions Everyone invited to join in and let their limbs loose! Beginners, advanced, join in and dance away the weekend!!!

  ●

  The Bookworm's Open Mic Night (Read More)

  All Welcome! Whether you play the Guzheng, Bongo drums, Alternative Rock or classical Jazz, just put your name down on the list and let inspiration flow. All participants are offered a free drink, and the mic to sing/play in for about 20 minutes.