Taiwan's Publishing World Loses Cheng Ming-chin at 95

Cheng Ming-chin, a pioneering Taiwanese children’s book illustrator and recipient of a Golden Tripod Award for Outstanding Contributions to Publishing, died in his sleep Monday at age 95. His family told CNA Wednesday that he’d left clear instructions for his funeral arrangements: he would be buried in the family cemetery in New Taipei, and no memorial service will be held, in accordance with his wishes.

A Working Life Beyond the Classroom

Born in Taipei, Cheng graduated from the art department of Taiwan Provincial Normal School, as it was then known. He taught art at an elementary school for 25 years before turning to children’s publishing. There, he worked as a writer, translator and editor. His career linked classroom teaching with the making and circulation of picture books in Taiwan.

Cheng helped popularize picture books in Taiwan and published nearly 50 illustrated books. The Ministry of Culture said several became classics of Taiwanese children’s literature. Among his best-known illustrations is “The Little Paper Boats That Went to See the Sea” (小紙船看海), a book through which many readers encountered his work.

Picture-book culture depends on people taking on more than one job. Cheng wrote and illustrated, but he also translated, edited, selected books, advised, reviewed and taught. These roles connected works from around the world with Taiwanese readers, publishers and students.

The Work Behind the Books

Cheng helped lay the foundation for Taiwan’s picture book industry by introducing notable works from around the world. He served as a book selector, translator and consultant. The Ministry of Culture recognized his contribution to publishing, while his own work spanned the practical tasks that help books reach readers and join a literary tradition.

He also wrote for newspapers and magazines about prominent Taiwanese and international illustrators. His work included introductions to picture books and reviews. Across Taiwan, he lectured on appreciating the art form, taking his work beyond the books he published and illustrated.

His contribution wasn’t limited to one celebrated title or an award. His nearly 50 books, translation and editorial work, writing about illustrators and lectures all formed part of a long career in children’s publishing. Cheng taught for 25 years. Afterward, he continued working across the field as a writer, translator and editor.

A Farewell on His Own Terms

Cheng’s family said he’d left clear instructions for his funeral arrangements. He will be buried in the family cemetery in New Taipei, with no memorial service, as he wished. The family shared the arrangements with CNA Wednesday.

The Ministry of Culture identified several of Cheng’s books as classics and recognized his contribution to publishing with the Golden Tripod Award for Outstanding Contributions to Publishing. His career spanned the classroom, publishing, print media and lectures across Taiwan, according to the ministry and his family. His books remain, along with the picture-book culture he helped build.