A Small Publisher’s Bold Move: Experimental Translations Set to Expand in the U.S.

In an engaging move, Tilted Axis, a British publishing house with a reputation for experimental and translated literature, is taking a leap by expanding its offerings to the U.S. market. The press has carved out a niche for itself with unique narratives that major publishers often shy away from, according to publisher Kristen Vida Alfaro. She noted, “The kind of literature we’re publishing, it can be a risk for major publishers.”

One example of the extraordinary stories that Tilted Axis will be bringing to U.S. readers is the collection titled "Delicious Hunger," translated by Jeremy Tiang. Tiang encountered this remarkable work while browsing in a Singaporean bookstore. Authored by Hai Fan, who wrote under a pseudonym, the book chronicles the author's 13 years as a guerrilla soldier in the jungles of Malaysia and southern Thailand battling alongside the Malayan Communist Party.

Despite the challenges of securing an English-language publisher for a Singaporean author’s collection, Tiang found a willing partner in Tilted Axis. The translation was published in Britain last fall and became notable for winning an English PEN Translates Award, marking a significant achievement as the first book from Singapore to secure the prize.

Though gathering interest in the U.S. market has proven more complex—Tiang submitted "Delicious Hunger" to 29 American publishers without a single offer—he felt a sense of relief and excitement when learning about Tilted Axis's expansion to North America. This breakthrough means that "Delicious Hunger" is slated for release in the U.S. this June, among a host of nearly 20 titles planned from Tilted Axis for this year.

This initiative emphasizes the publisher's commitment to bringing diverse voices and challenging narratives to readers, encouraging an appreciation of international literature that often remains hidden from mainstream audiences. The first wave of these anticipated titles will reach U.S. consumers this month, promising fresh perspectives that are sure to captivate literary enthusiasts.