In honor of World Kid Lit Month in September, we spoke with publishers and translators about the landscape of children’s books in translation.
Going the Distance: The State of Children's Publishing in Translation
Just 3%: that’s the number of books published in the U.S. that are works in translation. And only a fraction of those are fiction titles. Even fewer are books for children and teens. We spoke with a dozen publishing professionals—many from small but mighty independent houses—about the current climate for children’s books in translation, and how they are pushing to correct the imbalance by introducing more voices from around the globe to the U.S. market.
Here, There, and Everywhere: Conversations with Children's Book Translators
Apart from a select few such as Ann Goldstein—English translator of Elena Ferrante and other acclaimed Italian writers—literary translators often go unsung and unappreciated in the publishing world. The recent #NameTheTranslator movement, which calls for translators to be credited either on a book’s cover or in the frontmatter, has shined a light on their efforts, but more can be done to support this vital artform. We asked 12 literary translators about the joys and tribulations of working with U.S. publishers—including issues of visibility and recognition and the rise of AI—and their forecast for the future of their profession.
World Kid Lit Relaunches as Community Interest Company
What began as an informal group of volunteer literary translators, armed with the intent to promote globally diverse books for young readers, is now primed to take its mission to greater heights. This month, World Kid Lit is putting down roots as a U.K.-based Community Interest Company, allowing the team to expand its reach through fundraising campaigns, educational grants, and additional opportunities for training events.
On the Horizon: 2024–2025 Children's Books in Translation
Publishers shared some of the recent and forthcoming children’s titles in translation they’re especially proud to be bringing to U.S. readers, from thought-provoking picture books to YA fantasies and more.
