The Picture Book Pavilion at the 2017 South China Book Festival, held at the China Import and Export Fair Complex, has proved popular with children and parents alike.

Though it is only the first time for a dedicated picture book section to be established at the festival, it has attracted big names including renowned children's author An Wulin.

Visitors flock to the South China Book Festival, held from Aug 10 to 14, at the China Import and Export Fair Complex. [Photo/southcn.com]

An said picture books are a great way to get kids into the habit of reading from an early age. The pictures allow children to make connections and form stories before being able to read words.

One of the most popular books at the Picture Book Pavilion is Adventures Along the Silk Road – a picture book based upon the culture of the Silk Road. The book is illustrated by a group of young artists from Guangdong province and consists of interesting stories in words and pictures.

Mao Jianxiong, editor-in-chief of the book said he was proud to produce a book with such strong Chinese characteristics. "Only by turning serious topics into picture books can the stories become interesting and attract children to read," Mao said.

Apart from picture books, activities held at the pavilion included storytelling sessions, painting activities and even an impromptu English drama performance.

Other highlights of the Picture Book Pavilion included an exhibition of Caldecott Medal-winning picture books, Hans Christian Andersen Award-winning books, winners of the Kate Greenaway Medal and Feng Zikai Chinese Children's Picture Book Award. 

Children read picture books at the Picture Book Pavilion at the 2017 South China Book Festival. [Photo/southcn.com]

Artists perform a picture book drama at the 2017 South China Book Festival. [Photo/southcn.com]