National Oceanic Research Institute publishes "Bokhara's Silver Coin" Taiwanese Hokkien picture book to introduce underwater cultural heritage

The National Oceanic Research Institute has released a new picture book, "Bokhara's Silver Coin," written in Taiwanese Hokkien. The book centers on the "Bokhara" steamship, a historical shipwreck located in the waters of Penghu, Taiwan.

This initiative aims to introduce children to the importance of underwater cultural heritage. The book creatively combines historical facts from a real maritime disaster in 1892 with elements of fantasy. It guides young readers through the narratives surrounding the sunken vessel, highlighting its historical significance.

Published in August, coinciding with the UN's designation of August 21st as International Day for Underwater Cultural Heritage, the book uses a silver coin as a narrative thread. It is presented in a dual-language format, featuring both Taiwanese Hokkien and its Romanized spelling (Taigi). Accompanying audio files are included to help children learn the language while engaging with the story, fostering an appreciation for marine culture, historical memory, and local dialects.