By Joyce Yung
The Imprint 24 launch at the FCC, held during the Hong Kong International Literary Festival week, was a lively, well-attended and memorable evening. As a new member of WiPS, I’ve enjoyed the vibrant online community, but this event gave me the chance to experience its warmth and energy in person and meet fellow members face to face.
From the start, the atmosphere was welcoming. Polly Yu greeted attendees with her trademark pzazz; and the Lion Rock Press goodie bag — with its copies of Imprint 24 and inspired sponsor items — added a festive touch, along with the anticipation of the lucky draw.
Carol Dyer, editor of Imprint 24, opened with thoughtful remarks on the importance of the publication and its stories, and gave thanks to contributors and to Pamela Williams for her striking cover illustration. We were then honoured with an address from Emma Pei Yin, the Australian-Chinese author of When Sleeping Women Wake, who spoke with candour and inspiration about her writing journey.
The evening was guided by dynamic MCs Grace Chan and Imogen Short, who took to the stage, adding their energy and humour to the occasion. Their announcement of the official launch of the anthology was met with enthusiastic applause.
Guests enjoyed a variety of delectable food options and drinks throughout the evening that complemented the celebratory ambiance and made for a truly enjoyable experience.
The programme included eight well-delivered readings from the anthology (by Ritu Hemnani, Candice Turnquest, Maureen Tai, Sadie Kaye, Deborah Mannas, Gillian Kew, Jenny Chang and Jane Houng [reading for Ruth Henderson]) showcasing the diversity of voices within the publication. A light-hearted literary quiz during the intermission added fun and friendly competition, before the rest of the readings resumed.
The night concluded with the lucky draw, generously supported by sponsors, which delighted many winners and rounded off the event on a high note.
The Imprint 24 launch was more than a book celebration — it was a gathering of community, creativity and shared enthusiasm. I left feeling inspired, connected and grateful to be part of this unique society. Thank you to everyone involved for making this event not only successful but also a remarkable experience for all attendees!