Many traditionally published books are translated into other
languages.
If you self-publish, is that option entirely out of reach?
Not necessarily. There are foreign rights agents: difficult, but not
impossible to connect with.
Another option is to pay for a translation. This is tricky.
If you are unable to read the language, it is impossible to know if they have
done a credible job of translating your fiction. Cost is one factor. You can expect to pay a good literary translator ten to twenty-five cents a word. Cost versus benefit is another consideration. How much would you earn?
It is crucial to hire a
professional translator. Do not rely on Google translate. Artificial intelligence translators lack nuance. It's fine for a blunt instrument such as product instructions, but not poetry. In addition to a translator, you might also require a
new cover design. It is possible to keep the original cover artwork and change
the title. If you did not design your own cover, however, the changes can lead to additional expense.
When I traveled Europe, I found most book stores carried American novels and our best selling lists were represented there, especially Young Adult, Mystery, and Thriller. In most stores, the books were in English rather than German or French.
When I traveled Europe, I found most book stores carried American novels and our best selling lists were represented there, especially Young Adult, Mystery, and Thriller. In most stores, the books were in English rather than German or French.
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| Switzerland Book Store Shelf |
With those cautions, here are resources and articles on the topic:
Selling to Foreign Language Markets (Which languages?)
Kindlepreneur: A complete guide to finding the right translator for your book (and your budget!)
Selling to Foreign Language Markets (Which languages?)
Kindlepreneur: A complete guide to finding the right translator for your book (and your budget!)
Selling Books Internationally by Jane Friedman
The Creative Penn: Translations
Translating Your Self-published Book (additional resources to contact)
Translating Your Self-published Book (additional resources to contact)
Translation services you can contact directly:
Alconost To get a binding quote for the cost of translation
please send your material to alpha@alconost.com.
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