'The pressure on Taiwan is increasing'

With his novels, bestselling author Stephan Thome wants to open the horizons of German readers to China and Taiwan. "If you want to tell something substantial about these countries, two years of residence and a few language skills are not enough," says the sinologist, who has now lived in Taiwan for 12 years. A conversation about fear of war, cultural appropriation and best-case scenarios for an island constantly overshadowed by a looming Chinese invasion. Fabian Peltsch spoke with Thome.

Last updated: 24. July 2025