Book Translation Services
More than just translation…
At First Edition Translations, we are passionate about bringing stories, ideas and knowledge to readers around the globe. With over four decades of experience in the publishing industry, we have honed our expertise in translating books of all genres and formats. Whether you are an author, a publisher or a content creator, our team of experienced, efficient and friendly in-house editorial project managers is here to guide you through the complex process of book translation. Our mission is to ensure that your work resonates with readers in every language, just as it does in its original form.
From fiction to non-fiction, audiobooks to ebooks, and everything in between, we cover a broad spectrum of literary works. Our team understands the nuances of different genres and formats, and we tailor our translation services to meet the specific needs of each project. With the help of our expert linguists, proofreaders, typesetters and editors, we take care of every detail, ensuring that your book is translated accurately, elegantly and with cultural sensitivity.
Award-Winning Translations
We are extremely proud to say that Rebellious Forests, a photography book we translated into English for our client Kulturalis, was awarded Silver at the 2024 International Creative Media Award (ICMA).
Organised to highlight outstanding achievements in custom media, book publishing, and editorial design, the ICMA brings together creative talent from around the world.
This beautifully produced title was recognised in the “Photo books photo reports” category — a well-deserved win for Kulturalis, and a project we’re proud to have contributed to.
With a broad range of categories — from illustrated guides and graphic novels to fine art publications — Rebellious Forests stood out in the “Photo books photo reports” category, making this recognition all the more rewarding.
Sharing Your Story
When First Edition Translations was founded in 1981, our focus was primarily on translations for the publishing world. Since then, our experience and reputation have only grown. Today, we specialise in translating and editing a diverse range of books, including biographies, history and culture, cookbooks, art books, exhibition catalogues, museum guides and children’s literature. These genres have become our bread and butter, and we take pride in delivering translations that capture the essence of the original work while making it accessible to a global audience.
Over the years, we have had the privilege of working with some of the most esteemed names in the publishing and cultural sectors. Our clients include: The Royal Collection, Scala Arts & Heritage, Kulturalis, Müller und Schindler, DK, VEMAG, Rebel Girls, Octopus, The Van Gogh Museum, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Arcturus, Quarto, and Cambridge University Press, among many others. These collaborations reflect our commitment to excellence and our ability to handle projects of varying complexity and scale.
At First Edition Translations, we believe that every book has the potential to inspire, educate and entertain readers across the world. Our comprehensive book translation services are designed to help you reach new audiences, expand your readership and share your work with the world. Let us help you bring your book to life in any language.
Expert Book Translations Across All Genres
Share your story with the world and connect with a global audience today. Our full range of editorial services go much further than translations and also include editing, copywriting, DTP and proofreading.
Non-Fiction Translations
Non-fiction translations play a crucial role in bridging the gap between cultures and making factual content accessible to a global audience. Whether it’s biographies, memoirs, cookbooks, arts & crafts, academic texts, travel guides, or self-help books, translating non-fiction requires a deep understanding of the subject matter and the ability to convey complex ideas clearly and accurately. Professional translators must not only be proficient in the source and target languages but also possess expertise in the specific field of the text they are translating. This ensures that the translated work maintains its original intent, tone, and factual accuracy, providing readers with a seamless and authentic experience.
We understand the importance of preserving the integrity of the original work while making it accessible to a broader audience. Our translators meticulously research and adapt the content to ensure cultural relevance and clarity, allowing your non-fiction work to reach its full potential.
Art
Cookbooks
Crafts
Self-Help
History
Biographies
Academic Texts
Travel
Fiction Translations
Fiction translations are a vital component of the literary world, allowing stories to transcend linguistic and cultural boundaries. Translating fiction is an art that requires not only linguistic proficiency but also a deep understanding of the narrative’s essence, tone, and style. The translator must capture the author’s voice and the emotional nuances of the original text, ensuring that the translated work resonates with readers in the same way as it does in its original language. This process involves a delicate balance of staying true to the source material while making necessary adaptations to fit the cultural context of the target audience.
We know that every story is unique, and we approach each translation with the care and attention it deserves.
Being avid readers and writers themselves, our expert linguists truly appreciate the subtleties of storytelling.
Crime
Fantasy
Historical
Literary
Mystery
Romance
Science Fiction
Thrillers
Our Client Testimonials
First Edition Translations are a leader in their field and we trust them with our award-winning Co-Edition Publishing. We had constant updates, calls if needed and quick turnarounds on text throughout the process. I can’t thank you enough and we’re so pleased we got to work on this incredible special title. I wouldn’t use anyone else!
General Manager, DK Publishing
Trusted for Translations
Latest Book Translation Articles
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Opening doors with literary translation
As a translation agency specialised in editorial works, we know a thing or two about the power of literary translation. Time and again, we see the positive effects that it has at both a reputational and financial level. In this article, we outline how translation can...
How book translation gives authors a voice
Literary talent can cross borders, making global literature more diverse as stories from many cultures become a part of a shared literary space. Translation opens doors for writers who use less widely spoken languages. Many powerful books come from linguistic,...
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