| The British, Dutch, Japanes and Portuguese have all influenced Taiwan. But few realize that Sweden can be added to the list. 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 enents shaping the island. But th most compelling message comes from Liv's experience. Growing up in different lands and during turbulent times can produce positive insight. |  |
"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. |
"Liv ended up in Tainan where the Dutch outpost was reestablished under Frederick Coyett. Life was even more challenging in Taiwan Beacuse 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."
Inquiries are welcome by the author at: azi664w@tninet.se
