When you think of translated literature, titles such as The Little Prince, Anne Frank: Diary of a Young Girl, and The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo spring to mind. If you struggle to think of any others, you’re not alone.
A recent report from Literature Across Frontiers called Publishing Data and Statistics on Translated Literature in the United Kingdom and Ireland reveals that approximately only 2.5 per cent of all publications and 4.5 per cent of fiction, poetry, drama (literature) are translations.

The study, the first ever accurate figures regarding the publishing of translated literature in the British Isles, was compiled from data provided by the British Library for three sample years: 2000, 2005, 2006.

The numbers reveal a slow but steady growth in translated titles over the years:

* 1,721 in 2000, with 529 titles representing translated poetry, fiction and drama;
* 2,014 in 2005 with 605 titles representing translated poetry, fiction and drama;
* 2,207 in 2008 with 753 titles representing translated poetry, fiction and drama.

Across the pond, translated literature in the United States accounts for just 3% of the market. One group, Three Percent, are working to change this through keeping readers informed in international literature and giving the Best Translated Book Award each year. The long list for fiction has recently been announced and includes books originally written in French, Chinese, Persian, Spanish, and Norwegian. The prize will be awarded May 4th in New York City.

In this ever globalised world, reading literature from abroad is one of the best ways to learn about other cultures. Today Translations can assist in helping you tell your story to the world by translated and typesetting your literary masterpiece.

If you would like to find out more about our services call us today on +44 (0) 207 397 2770 or email us at [email protected].