British publisher Tilted Axis is making waves by focusing on innovative, translated literature, paving the way for experimental voices to shine in the U.S. market.
A Small Press's Bold Journey into Experimental Literature
A Small Press's Bold Journey into Experimental Literature
Tilted Axis Publishing Expands to U.S. Market with Unique Translations
Tilted Axis, a small yet influential British publisher, has built a reputation for venturing into the realm of experimental translated literature. Founded with a mission to promote innovative narratives, the press has garnered significant recognition, earning prestigious awards for its unique collection of translated works, many of which have never been introduced to the English-speaking world. According to publisher Kristen Vida Alfaro, mainstream publishers often shy away from such literature, as it carries inherent risks.
The momentum for Tilted Axis began with the work of translator Jeremy Tiang, who stumbled upon "Delicious Hunger" by Singaporean author Hai Fan in a bookstore in Singapore. Written under a pseudonym, the book shares Hai Fan's compelling experiences as a guerrilla soldier with the Malayan Communist Party. Despite the potential challenges of finding an English publisher for this collection, Tiang submitted it to Tilted Axis, where it was quickly accepted.
Following its release in Britain, Tiang's translation won the English PEN Translates Award, marking a significant milestone as the first book from Singapore to achieve such an honor. However, when it came to publishing in the U.S., "Delicious Hunger" faced barriers—submitted to 29 American publishers with no takers. This setback highlighted the difficulties smaller and innovative works often encounter in the American publishing landscape.
Now, with Tilted Axis expanding into the North American market, Tiang's work, along with a range of other titles, is poised for release. "Delicious Hunger" is scheduled to hit shelves in the U.S. this June, joining nearly 20 titles from Tilted Axis's catalog. The initial titles are set to arrive soon, indicating a bright future for diverse and experimental literature in the American literary scene.
The momentum for Tilted Axis began with the work of translator Jeremy Tiang, who stumbled upon "Delicious Hunger" by Singaporean author Hai Fan in a bookstore in Singapore. Written under a pseudonym, the book shares Hai Fan's compelling experiences as a guerrilla soldier with the Malayan Communist Party. Despite the potential challenges of finding an English publisher for this collection, Tiang submitted it to Tilted Axis, where it was quickly accepted.
Following its release in Britain, Tiang's translation won the English PEN Translates Award, marking a significant milestone as the first book from Singapore to achieve such an honor. However, when it came to publishing in the U.S., "Delicious Hunger" faced barriers—submitted to 29 American publishers with no takers. This setback highlighted the difficulties smaller and innovative works often encounter in the American publishing landscape.
Now, with Tilted Axis expanding into the North American market, Tiang's work, along with a range of other titles, is poised for release. "Delicious Hunger" is scheduled to hit shelves in the U.S. this June, joining nearly 20 titles from Tilted Axis's catalog. The initial titles are set to arrive soon, indicating a bright future for diverse and experimental literature in the American literary scene.
