Bopomofo, also known as Zhuyin or Mandarin Phonetic Symbols, is the predominant transliteration system for Mandarin Chinese in Taiwan. It functions as both an educational tool and a crucial element of daily communication, encompassing input methods, slang, wordplay, and coding. At one time, Bopomofo was widely adopted across Mandarin-speaking countries. Nowadays, Taiwan stands as the sole nation where it continues to be utilised, making it a unique cultural marker for identifying fellow Taiwanese.

The chapters outline Bopomofo’s components, pronunciation, notation, history, and everyday applications, blending formal and informal tones that are accessible to non-Mandarin speakers. The structure roughly follows the timeline in which most Taiwanese learn and incorporate Bopomofo into their lives. A specific shade of green, identical to that of the Taiwan passport, was chosen to reflect the editorial intent and is consistently used throughout the prints and materials.

BOPOMOFO seeks to celebrate this intangible cultural asset and, more importantly, to increase awareness of Taiwan’s rich political and historical background. It is intended to serve beyond just an educational resource or visual representation but to be an inspiration and engagement to the broader community.

Spec: 105 x 160 mm, 112 pages
Format: Digital full colour & white ink printing, softcover
Finishing: Blind debossing, exposed spine binding