One of the basic strategies for non-fiction writers is, “When something interesting is happening, use it as a hook for your writing.” I see that the Chinese know this, too. According to People’s Daily Online (can you tell I spend too much time browsing the Internet?), there are already hundreds of books out relating to the 2008 Olympics, including I Sing Children’s Songs to Welcome Olympics, and quite a few collections of English phrases for locals to learn. 100 Sentences of Olympic English includes not only “nice to meet you,” but also “I am afraid.” Hmm.
Then there’s Olympic Security English, which includes this exchange:
"Policeman: I'm afraid you can't get in without a ticket.
"Foreigner: Here is the money for the ticket. Take it and do let me in.
"Policeman: We don't collect any cash. Please leave here, or I will have you removed.
"Foreigner: All right."
It might sell better if it had alternate scenarios, like “Policeman: Give me more money or I will break your nose.”
Or, “Foreigner: Will my cell-mate be from Tibet?”
Hmm, there’s a book idea in there somewhere…
