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Adventures of Liv
in Japan & Taiwan (1652-1672) An illustrated history for young readers (in Swedish) by Anita Steiner 82 pages 85 original watercolor drawings Inquiries are welcome by the author at:
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While imaginary, The Adventures of Liv documents the true-to-life character, Frederick Coyett, Swedish noble assigned to head the offices of the Dutch East India Company during its brief tenure in Tainan. The story is well researched and illustrated to whet the young reader’s appetite for history. Liv’s encounter with Koxinga, Ming Dynasty loyalist, is sensitively told giving a balanced look at events shaping the island. But the most compelling message comes from Liv’s experience. Growing up in different lands and during turbulent times can produce positive insight. |
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“The daughter of a Dutch merchant and a Japanese villager, young
Liv is caught between two worlds. One day, she stows away aboard a Dutch
trading ship bound for Japan and ends up in Deshima, a small island off
Nagasaki. “These days were risky for outsiders who fell under the
close scrutiny of the Shogun. In 1656, the foreign settlement
was forced to leave.
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“Liv ended up in Tainan where the Dutch outpost was reestablished
under Frederick Coyett. Life was even more challenging in Taiwan
because of power struggles with Chinese forces, but Liv was not discouraged.
She managed to befriend a native girl who lends a positive image to her
world. Coyett fought bravely to maintain his position. Ultimately,
he was defeated in 1662 when Koxinga assumed control. Back in her home
land, Liv marries and shares her incredible story with her own children.”
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