08/26/2026
August is Women in Translation month and we're recapping some of our recent and all time faves!
Translated lit is one of my favorite categories of books since it allows the reader into different parts of the world, ways of living, and societal norms. A good translation is more than a copy paste google translate of each word, it is someone reading a text and getting to the truest essence and putting that back together in an entirely different language. It is such an art form and I am so grateful to all the amazing folks who dedicate their lives to bringing us these stories from around the world.
Xo,
Liz
Ms. Ice Sandwich by Mieko Kawakami translated from Japanese by Louise Heal Kawai
A quirky little novella about first loves, obsession and growing up. Endearing and funny a great intro to this author!
Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata translated from Japanese by Ginny Tapley Takemori
An offbeat story of a woman who struggles to fit in but ultimately finds purpose and happiness in her own unique way. Fantastic portrait of a life that asks bug questions while maintaining humor and levity, absolutely worth the hype.
The Wax Child by Olga Ravn translated from Danish by Martin Aitken
Longlisted for the 2026 international Booker this novel is based on true events of a 17th century witch trial in Denmark. Brutal and magical and haunting.
Paradais by Fernanda Melchor translated from Spanish by Sophie Hughes
Such a vile and violent little novella, set in a luxury gated community in Mexico where two young boys plot a crime against their neighbor. A challenging read (check the content warnings) and the sister to Hurricane Season by the same author. A real gut punch of a book that examines Mexican society today.
Sun City by Tove Jansson translated from Swedish by Thomas Teal
A peculiar novella is set in a retirement community in Florida told in multiple perspectives. This book examines the odd ecosystem that is an old age home and how we face our own mortality.
