Robert Sawyer explains the popularity of science fiction in China

Canadian author Robert Sawyer, who was recently honoured at the China International Science Fiction and Fantasy Festival and Conference, has an interesting observation about the rising popularity of genre fiction in China. He sees it as a way for ordinary people to discuss topics considered taboo in their normal social context. Could science fiction subvert the country's autocratic rule some day? The Globe and Mail takes a look at how the unassuming Sawyer has become so popular in China.

Genre fiction is on the rise elsewhere in Asia. In South Korea, much mainstream fiction is infused with science fiction elements. There is also a popular writing competition that pits authors from across the continent against each other.