Nicola Bigwood's Blog
September 4, 2020
World Kid Lit Month
September is World Kid Lit Month, an annual celebration first launched in 2016 to promote world literature for children, teens and young adults, especially fiction and nonfiction translated to English from other languages.
With international travel curtailed by the global pandemic this year, World Kid Lit Month is the perfect time for young readers to travel the world through books.
Why is it important?
Alexandra Büchler, director of Literature Across Frontiers, said:
Author and translator Daniel Hahn said:
How can you join in with World Kid Lit month?
It's really easy to get involved, with opportunities, ideas and events across social media — Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and live Zoom events.
Why not share photos of translated children's books on your bookshelves (using #shelfie), or read and review a children's or young adult book translated into English from another language?
If you need some inspiration, check out World Kid Lit's list of translated books published in 2020.
There are stacks more ideas and resources available on the World Kid Lit blog, including classics and contemporary classics — from The Little Prince to Asterix the Gaul, from Heidi to Pippi Longstocking — as well as new and upcoming titles.
It's easier than ever to pick a country and fly there with a book. Happy reading!
[This article was originally posted on Ko-fi.com.]
With international travel curtailed by the global pandemic this year, World Kid Lit Month is the perfect time for young readers to travel the world through books.
Why is it important?
Alexandra Büchler, director of Literature Across Frontiers, said:
“By reading beyond our borders we explore the vast diversity of voices and perspectives that complement and contrast with our own. Global kid lit offers a window onto the world and a reflection of other cultures, but it also expands the opportunities for children to find the texts that speak personally to them.”
Author and translator Daniel Hahn said:
"Only a few percent of the world have English as a first language. Deciding you're interested in reading only books by people who happen to have been born into the same language as you is as arbitrary as deciding you're only going to read books written by people whose surnames start with vowels. Not that there aren't quite a lot of them, but don't you think you might be missing out?"
How can you join in with World Kid Lit month?
It's really easy to get involved, with opportunities, ideas and events across social media — Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and live Zoom events.
Why not share photos of translated children's books on your bookshelves (using #shelfie), or read and review a children's or young adult book translated into English from another language?
If you need some inspiration, check out World Kid Lit's list of translated books published in 2020.
There are stacks more ideas and resources available on the World Kid Lit blog, including classics and contemporary classics — from The Little Prince to Asterix the Gaul, from Heidi to Pippi Longstocking — as well as new and upcoming titles.
It's easier than ever to pick a country and fly there with a book. Happy reading!
[This article was originally posted on Ko-fi.com.]
August 7, 2020
August a.k.a. Women In Translation Month
It's August, which means 'Women in Translation' month is here: an annual celebration of women writers in translation from around the world!
A perfect time, then, for me to delve into A History of the World with the Women Put Back in by Kerstin Lücker and Ute Daenschel, translated from German to English by Ruth Ahmedzai Kemp and Jessica West.
I've very much been looking forward to reading this!
If you want to know more about Women in Translation month, check out social media (especially @Read_WIT on Twitter and readwit on Instagram) and the hashtags #WomenInTranslation, #WomenInTranslationMonth and #WITMonth and help more voices be heard!
Happy reading! :o)
Authors: Kerstin Lücker and Ute Daenschel
Translators: Ruth Ahmedzai Kemp and Jessica West
Illustrator: Natsko Seki
Published by: The History Press
A perfect time, then, for me to delve into A History of the World with the Women Put Back in by Kerstin Lücker and Ute Daenschel, translated from German to English by Ruth Ahmedzai Kemp and Jessica West.
I've very much been looking forward to reading this!
If you want to know more about Women in Translation month, check out social media (especially @Read_WIT on Twitter and readwit on Instagram) and the hashtags #WomenInTranslation, #WomenInTranslationMonth and #WITMonth and help more voices be heard!
Happy reading! :o)
Authors: Kerstin Lücker and Ute DaenschelTranslators: Ruth Ahmedzai Kemp and Jessica West
Illustrator: Natsko Seki
Published by: The History Press
April 2, 2020
Interview with Author Aidan Fox
Aidan Fox is the author of 'The Water Mage' -
La Fille de l'Eau: Tome 1
in its original French - a young adult, steampunk fantasy tale of magic, mystery and murder, which I have translated and for which we're seeking a publisher. Unfortunately, Aidan had to cancel a number of planned book fair appearances because of the current coronavirus crisis – so I decided to interview him! Find out more about the man behind the book right here, from the comfort of your sofa…
Nicola: Hello Aidan! Many French-speaking readers will already know you, but you’re new to English-speaking audiences. So, tell us a bit about yourself.
Aidan: I’m French and I’m a fantasy writer. I have two series of novels already published, one which is pure heroic fantasy and the other which is half-fantasy, half-steampunk. The first volume of the steampunk fantasy series is the one that’s just been translated in English. I did originally self-publish that translation, as you know, but I have now withdrawn it as I'm keen - indeed, we're both keen! - to find a traditional publisher for the book, and hopefully the whole series! Apart from that, I work as a financial controller for a French company.
Nicola: What made you want to become a writer?
Aidan: Well, I guess I’ve always had it in me (just like every writer) – I started writing stories when I was very young. But I took it professional in my 20s. One day I drafted a world that was more consistent and complete than the rest and I said to myself, ‘Why not try writing a novel – for real?’ And so it began. What I enjoy most in the writing process is the world- and character-building. The plot comes along, appealing to the rational part of my personality, but the pure creativity I love is in the early part of the process.
Nicola: How would you summarise ‘The Water Mage’ for someone who hasn’t read it?
Aidan: It’s a race. You are a part of it as the sixth member of the Trailblazers team. You have to win victory, but also dodge schemes and investigations around you and your friends. Pretty tough, but if you have the spirit of adventure you’ll be up to the task! I can’t say too much about the rest of the trilogy or I’ll spoil the fun!
Nicola: Fair enough! So, where did you get the idea for the ‘The Water Mage’ and the character of Naëli?
Aidan: I have lots of sources of inspiration. The various series of my universe echo one another in a certain way, as you’ll discover later when more of my stories are released. Naëli and her world are just one part of this universe. I already have a plan and setting for many of the books. But as for where the idea for this universe comes from… I think it just bursts out sometimes, when I see a picture, or a building, when I travel, when I watch a movie… an idea strikes me and then I have to write it down.
Nicola: This is your first novel to be translated. How was the translation process from your perspective?
Aidan: Yes, this was my first translation experience so I don’t really have anything to compare it to. But I enjoyed collaborating over specific aspects, such as place names and character names. My English isn’t bad so I was able to give an initial review of the translation and I liked discussing linguistic choices with you, the translator. It was a pleasure for me to work with such a professional translator and to be able to trust you with the work.
Nicola: Ah, that’s very kind – I’m delighted you’re so pleased with the translation! It was great for me, too, to be able to discuss ideas with you; I really love the collaborative aspect of translation and the creativity it inspires! Speaking of creativity, what are you working on at the moment?
Aidan: Oh, I have about three or four projects on the go. I try to work on all of them, but I’m also working full-time for my main job, and I have to promote and talk about my published books, so… it can be a bit slow (I’d like to work faster, but I manage to finish at least one book per year, so it’s not that bad). Busy, busy!
Nicola: I bet! Tell me about your favourite books and authors; who inspires you?
Aidan: Michael Moorcock is fascinating. Tolkien, of course. Lovecraft, obviously. And some amazing French writers, such as Pierre Bottero, who wrote some great series for teenagers (I think writing for teenagers and young adults is more difficult than for adults, because you have to create something that’s great to read as well as entertainment that’s thrilling) and Alain Damasio, who is an incredible French fantasy author (his book La Horde du Contrevent is a masterpiece!).
Nicola: Great recommendations! What do you enjoy most about connecting with readers?
Aidan: Meeting readers at book fairs is probably the best. When you get to see a reader in person and see the smile on their face when they talk about your book. That’s truly amazing. Best reward ever. I use social media a lot, too. I meet wonderful people, I get great reviews and I enjoy posting content so people know more about my stories. But it’s difficult, too: sometimes it feels like we’re slaves to social media because of the platforms’ algorithms. You know, you try to post top-quality content, at a constant pace, reply to messages as soon as possible, build a real strategy… and the algorithm changes and you have to start anew. I have to say I find it quite exhausting sometimes – but I guess I’m more of a writer than a marketer!
Nicola: I think we can all empathise with that! I know you post quite a lot on Instagram and Facebook, and judging by the interactions you have with your readers, you must be doing something right!
Aidan: Haha, thank you!
Nicola: Thank you very much for your time! And we hope to see you at book fairs - and on English-language bookshelves! - in the future!
Aidan: Me too! Take care and happy reading!
La fille de l'eau by Aidan Fox (pen name of Pierrick Derrien) is available from all Amazon marketplaces in paperback and Kindle ebook.
Follow author Aidan Fox on Goodreads, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, as well as via his website.
Follow translator Nicola Bigwood on Goodreads, Twitter, Instagram, Ko-fi and Medium.
Book title: The Water Mage
Original title: La fille de l'eau
Author: Aidan Fox
Year of publication: 2018
Pages: 280 (74,000 words)
Age group: Young adult
Publisher and country of origin: Aidan Fox (Kindle Direct Publishing), France
Original language: French
World English Rights available (from the author).
About the book:
Young and foolhardy, Naëli and Jay are trying their luck at the Seven Principalities Cup, the longest and most dangerous vehicle race ever invented. They will have to cross every island in the archipelago and score highly in each stage to stay in the running. At the same time, they'll have to contend with some unscrupulous rivals... But they have a secret weapon: Naëli's gift of hydromancy. Her prowess in the ancient magic of Water is a considerable strategic advantage. And she will need all the help she can get, for a murky plot is brewing behind the scenes of the Cup this year. Competitors are disappearing without trace or being targeted by sinister attacks. As the race progresses, the mystery deepens. And what should be a simple sporting event becomes the backdrop for an ominous investigation, shrouded in secrecy...
Translator's note: I was drawn to this steampunk fantasy tale not only because it’s a story of magic and mystery – and murder! – but also because it addresses a lot of issues that feel very relevant at the moment, such as how we perceive and treat people who are different from us, how truth and facts can be distorted, and how our actions have consequences for the natural world. 'The Water Mage' is the first book of a trilogy.
Nicola: Hello Aidan! Many French-speaking readers will already know you, but you’re new to English-speaking audiences. So, tell us a bit about yourself.
Aidan: I’m French and I’m a fantasy writer. I have two series of novels already published, one which is pure heroic fantasy and the other which is half-fantasy, half-steampunk. The first volume of the steampunk fantasy series is the one that’s just been translated in English. I did originally self-publish that translation, as you know, but I have now withdrawn it as I'm keen - indeed, we're both keen! - to find a traditional publisher for the book, and hopefully the whole series! Apart from that, I work as a financial controller for a French company.
Nicola: What made you want to become a writer?
Aidan: Well, I guess I’ve always had it in me (just like every writer) – I started writing stories when I was very young. But I took it professional in my 20s. One day I drafted a world that was more consistent and complete than the rest and I said to myself, ‘Why not try writing a novel – for real?’ And so it began. What I enjoy most in the writing process is the world- and character-building. The plot comes along, appealing to the rational part of my personality, but the pure creativity I love is in the early part of the process.
Nicola: How would you summarise ‘The Water Mage’ for someone who hasn’t read it?
Aidan: It’s a race. You are a part of it as the sixth member of the Trailblazers team. You have to win victory, but also dodge schemes and investigations around you and your friends. Pretty tough, but if you have the spirit of adventure you’ll be up to the task! I can’t say too much about the rest of the trilogy or I’ll spoil the fun!
Nicola: Fair enough! So, where did you get the idea for the ‘The Water Mage’ and the character of Naëli?
Aidan: I have lots of sources of inspiration. The various series of my universe echo one another in a certain way, as you’ll discover later when more of my stories are released. Naëli and her world are just one part of this universe. I already have a plan and setting for many of the books. But as for where the idea for this universe comes from… I think it just bursts out sometimes, when I see a picture, or a building, when I travel, when I watch a movie… an idea strikes me and then I have to write it down.
Nicola: This is your first novel to be translated. How was the translation process from your perspective?
Aidan: Yes, this was my first translation experience so I don’t really have anything to compare it to. But I enjoyed collaborating over specific aspects, such as place names and character names. My English isn’t bad so I was able to give an initial review of the translation and I liked discussing linguistic choices with you, the translator. It was a pleasure for me to work with such a professional translator and to be able to trust you with the work.
Nicola: Ah, that’s very kind – I’m delighted you’re so pleased with the translation! It was great for me, too, to be able to discuss ideas with you; I really love the collaborative aspect of translation and the creativity it inspires! Speaking of creativity, what are you working on at the moment?
Aidan: Oh, I have about three or four projects on the go. I try to work on all of them, but I’m also working full-time for my main job, and I have to promote and talk about my published books, so… it can be a bit slow (I’d like to work faster, but I manage to finish at least one book per year, so it’s not that bad). Busy, busy!
Nicola: I bet! Tell me about your favourite books and authors; who inspires you?
Aidan: Michael Moorcock is fascinating. Tolkien, of course. Lovecraft, obviously. And some amazing French writers, such as Pierre Bottero, who wrote some great series for teenagers (I think writing for teenagers and young adults is more difficult than for adults, because you have to create something that’s great to read as well as entertainment that’s thrilling) and Alain Damasio, who is an incredible French fantasy author (his book La Horde du Contrevent is a masterpiece!).
Nicola: Great recommendations! What do you enjoy most about connecting with readers?
Aidan: Meeting readers at book fairs is probably the best. When you get to see a reader in person and see the smile on their face when they talk about your book. That’s truly amazing. Best reward ever. I use social media a lot, too. I meet wonderful people, I get great reviews and I enjoy posting content so people know more about my stories. But it’s difficult, too: sometimes it feels like we’re slaves to social media because of the platforms’ algorithms. You know, you try to post top-quality content, at a constant pace, reply to messages as soon as possible, build a real strategy… and the algorithm changes and you have to start anew. I have to say I find it quite exhausting sometimes – but I guess I’m more of a writer than a marketer!
Nicola: I think we can all empathise with that! I know you post quite a lot on Instagram and Facebook, and judging by the interactions you have with your readers, you must be doing something right!
Aidan: Haha, thank you!
Nicola: Thank you very much for your time! And we hope to see you at book fairs - and on English-language bookshelves! - in the future!
Aidan: Me too! Take care and happy reading!
La fille de l'eau by Aidan Fox (pen name of Pierrick Derrien) is available from all Amazon marketplaces in paperback and Kindle ebook. Follow author Aidan Fox on Goodreads, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, as well as via his website.
Follow translator Nicola Bigwood on Goodreads, Twitter, Instagram, Ko-fi and Medium.
Book title: The Water Mage
Original title: La fille de l'eau
Author: Aidan Fox
Year of publication: 2018
Pages: 280 (74,000 words)
Age group: Young adult
Publisher and country of origin: Aidan Fox (Kindle Direct Publishing), France
Original language: French
World English Rights available (from the author).
About the book:
Young and foolhardy, Naëli and Jay are trying their luck at the Seven Principalities Cup, the longest and most dangerous vehicle race ever invented. They will have to cross every island in the archipelago and score highly in each stage to stay in the running. At the same time, they'll have to contend with some unscrupulous rivals... But they have a secret weapon: Naëli's gift of hydromancy. Her prowess in the ancient magic of Water is a considerable strategic advantage. And she will need all the help she can get, for a murky plot is brewing behind the scenes of the Cup this year. Competitors are disappearing without trace or being targeted by sinister attacks. As the race progresses, the mystery deepens. And what should be a simple sporting event becomes the backdrop for an ominous investigation, shrouded in secrecy...
Translator's note: I was drawn to this steampunk fantasy tale not only because it’s a story of magic and mystery – and murder! – but also because it addresses a lot of issues that feel very relevant at the moment, such as how we perceive and treat people who are different from us, how truth and facts can be distorted, and how our actions have consequences for the natural world. 'The Water Mage' is the first book of a trilogy.
