Translating Books for Publication

Translating Books for Publication offers readers an introductory guide to translating for the publishing sector, designed for aspiring translators and translation-adjacent professionals entering the field. It addresses the critical gap in understanding how translation operates within the broader publishing industry ecosystem. Taking a resolutely non-language-specific, business-focused approach, the book examines the practice of translating books across diverse sectors, including often-overlooked areas such as academic and institutional publishing.

The book incorporates an array of real-world case studies and practical exercises from a wide range of published text types, inviting readers to explore, analyze, and engage with translation for publishing as a professional marketplace. Unlike other introductions to literary translation, it applies an avowedly professional lens to contemporary translation for publishing, construing the practice broadly to incorporate genre fiction, non-fiction, and institutional and academic publishing. The book reframes literary translation—traditionally viewed narrowly as fiction—within the contemporary publishing market, positioning it as a viable freelance business proposition. Through practical exercises and real-world insights, readers explore translation for publishing not merely as creative practice, but as professional labour within a competitive marketplace. The methodology incorporates innovative perspectives from workplace happiness research, cultural economics, and network theory, encouraging holistic thinking about translation as professional practice.

The text takes an innovative approach by framing literary translation as commercial business practice within contemporary publishing markets, supported by highly analytical, evidence-based examination of the translation sector. This indispensable textbook serves students and instructors of Translation Studies, translation professionals, newcomers seeking industry entry, and established professionals looking to optimize their translation careers within the evolving publishing landscape.

Susan Pickford is head of the English unit at the Faculty of Translation and Interpreting, University of Geneva.