Back in 2019, I posted a list of nine books to celebrate Women in Translation Month (recognized annually in August). I’ve read quite a few great translated books by women since then, so I think it’s time for a new list!
Note: In an effort to keep this list manageable, I’ve only included books that I have personally read. If you want to see more of my reading recommendations by women in translation and books on my TBR, check out my Women in Translation list on Bookshop.org. If you love audiobooks, check out Libro.fm’s recommended playlist.
Grass by Keum Suk Gendry-Kim
Translated from the Korean by Janet Hong
This graphic novel tells the story of Okseon Lee, who was forced into sexual slavery during the Japanese occupation of Korea in World War II. As you might imagine from the content, this book can be quite difficult to read, but I thought the story was told beautifully.
Three Apples Fell From the Sky by Narine Abgaryan
Translated from the Russian by Lisa C. Hayden
Audiobook available on Libro.fm
This heartwarming story is set in a remote mountain community in Armenia. The story mostly centers on aging resident Anatolia and a quirky cast of characters from her close-knit community, from which most of the young residents are moving away.
Things We Lost in the Fire by Mariana Enriquez
Translated from the Spanish by Megan McDowell
Audiobook available on Libro.fm
The Guardian called this collection of short stories “gruesome, violent, upsetting – and bright with brilliance,” and I think that’s a pretty apt description. Set in Argentina, I found these stories to be haunting and (quite frankly) disturbing.
Catch the Rabbit by Lana Bastašić
Translated from the Serbo-Croation by the author
Audiobook available on Libro.fm
This character-driven novel focuses on the friendship between Sara and Lejla, two girls who grew up together during the Balkan War before experiencing a rift and losing touch. Now, Lejla is searching for her missing brother and invites Sara to return home from Ireland to join her on a road trip from Bosnia to Vienna.
A Castle in the Clouds by Kerstin Gier
Translated from the German by Romy Fursland
Audiobook available on Libro.fm
This YA novel featuring a teen intern at a Swiss hotel was so much fun, especially on audio. It’s a mix of a coming-of-age story, romance and mystery, and contrary to most of the translated fiction I read, this is a great pick if you need something more lighthearted!
Where the Wild Ladies Are by Aoko Matsuda
Translated from the Japanese by Polly Barton
Audiobook available on Libro.fm
This book is described as a “witty and exuberant collection of feminist retellings of traditional Japanese folktales.” As with most short story collections, I found that some were excellent while I didn’t quite grasp others, but overall I enjoyed reading this book.
The Golden Cage by Camilla Läckberg
Translated from the Swedish by Neil Smith
Audiobook available on Libro.fm
I don’t have a lot of genre fiction on this list, but for any thriller/mystery fans reading this, there is actually a great selection of translated books in that genre, especially from northern Europe, Korea and Japan (in my limited experience). The Golden Cage is the only book of Läckberg’s that I’ve read so far, but she is quite prolific and I would definitely be open to reading more.
Disoriental by Négar Djavadi
Translated from the French by Tina Kover
Audiobook available on Libro.fm
I just started reading this one, so I don’t have much to say yet except I think I’m going to like it! This is a multigenerational tale featuring an Iranian family, and I’ve heard the audiobook is excellent. (At the time I’m posting this, it’s also on sale for less than $5!)
What are your favorite books by women in translation? Leave your recommendations in the comments!
Purchasing books through Bookshop and Libro.fm allows you to support your local independent bookstore (or another indie of your choice). If you buy any books using our Bookshop.org or Libro.fm links above, you will support this blog at no extra cost to you! Thank you.
Featured image: Interior of D’s Books (insert immature snicker here) in Phnom Penh, Cambodia
