6 books every translator should read

Reading is one of the cornerstones for the acquisition of knowledge. It is also one of the best skills we can obtain and will accompany us throughout our lives allowing us to understand the world and everything around us.

Books also help us grow as professionals. Around the world the translation industry is in a constant state of evolution, therefore, it’s important for translators to engage in a continuous learning process.

We have compiled a list of 6 books you can read for your professional development as a translator. Check them out!

Confessions of a freelance translator

This is an interesting book written by Gary Smith. The author embraces the multiple facets of the world of translation and it offers useful tips for beginners and less experienced translators. Gary writes about the different types of clients, rates, the everlasting issue of visibility and how to organize your life working as a freelance translator. It also includes several exercises on terminology and a final chapter on the different types of customers in the translation industry.

Becoming a translator

Written by Douglas Robinson, this book explains how the translation industry works. Douglas gives the readers different tips that help translators learn to translate faster and in a more accurate way. It also includes tips on how to deal with a few specific problems and managing stress.

The Prosperous Translator

This book, written by Chris Durban, offers a realistic view of the translation industry. It exposes real-life scenarios and challenges that translators face in the language industry every day. Chris also included valuable insights that will help readers turn challenges into opportunities. This book is great for those who want to increase their professional awareness and learn more about the professionals that work in the translation industry.

Falsos amigos/False friends

This book, by Larousse, collects a large variety of typical expressions, known as false friends, that can disrupt our texts. In the book, the author explains the etymology of those expressions and the possible reason for mistakes.

Translation as a profession

This book was written by Roger Chriss, a professional translator with more than 15 years of experience. It provides a large number of tips and tricks for the reader on how to have a successful career in the translation industry. The author will help you identify the opportunities within the industry and how to utilize them effectively for better results.

Exploring Translation Theories

This author, Anthony Pym, covers different theories of equivalence, purpose, description, uncertainty, localization and cultural translation. The book concludes with a survey of the way translation is used as a model in postmodern cultural studies and sociologies.

Tell us, have you read any of these books? What other recommendations would you make?