Editing a transated novel differs fundamentally from editing a work draftet in the original language—primarily because the plot of a translated novel cannot be altered. Of course, minor details may sometimes be changed, and indeed might have to be—for example, to iron out mistakes in the original text, or to adapt the plot to the […]
How is the price for a specialist translation calculated?
The cost of a specialist translation can vary quite considerably depending on the translation provider. This is, of course, due to the fact that each freelancer sets their own rates—in the case of translators, there is no fee regulation, not even more or less official guidelines. In addition, the rate always depends on the type […]
Editing is not merely editing!
When it comes to editing, I essentially distinguish among four different types: (1) editing a text composed in its original language, (2) editing a text that is purely linguistic in nature, (3) editing the translation of a technical text, and (4) editing the translation of a novel. Before the selection of an editor, it makes […]
Your Book in English—Such a good idea!
Just over a year ago, I founded my service for novel translations from German into English. And it turned out to be a really good idea! In that time, we have been assigned with the translation of 14 books, some of which are still in progress. And fortunately, almost all projects are running absolutely according […]
How are the costs of a literary translation calculated?
In contrast to technical translations, whose prices are usually calculated by line (usually 55 characters including spaces) in German and by word in English (and many other languages), literary translations are charged by the page. During typewriter times, a page consisted of 30 lines, with a full line having exactly 60 keystrokes. However, incomplete lines […]
Translating for self-publishers: how I proceed
Whenever I translate a book for a self-publisher from English into German, the project includes significantly more than mere translation, as would be done for a traditional publisher—I offer a complete service package. First of all, the author benefits: usually, authors do not have a strong command of German and have already experienced enough difficulties […]
Translations for self-publishers: tips for authors
Self-publishing—that is, publishing books without the backing of a publishing house—is booming, and it’s a prejudice that self-published books are essentially junk. After all, if they were any good, they would have found a publisher, wouldn’t they? Even Harry Potter was rejected by multiple publishing houses. Tastes vary, including those of publishers and readers. However, […]