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5 Must-Read Books for Translators (and Language Lovers) Part 2

By GeaSpeak Team | 2024-07-26
5 Must-Read Books for Translators (and Language Lovers) Part 2

Welcome back, fellow language enthusiasts and translators! Did you devour the first edition of our must-read list of books for translators? We hope it fueled your passion for the intricacies of the art of translation.

In this ever-evolving world of languages, new resources and insights emerge constantly. That’s why we’re thrilled to present a new edition of our recommended reads. This time, we’ve compiled 5 additional books that delve into the depths of translation, explore the beauty of languages, and illuminate the fascinating connections between language and culture. So, grab your favorite reading beverage, settle in, and prepare to have your worldview expanded!

Book #1: In Other Words: A Language Lover’s Guide to the Most Intriguing Words Around the World, by C.J. Moore (2004)

Books for translators #1: In Other Words: A Language Lover's Guide to the Most Intriguing Words around the World
Christopher J. Moore
Foreword by Simon Winchester

This is an enchanting exploration of unique and fascinating words from diverse languages and cultures. The book showcases a carefully chosen collection of terms that capture concepts, emotions, and experiences that are often untranslatable into English.

Each entry delves into the cultural and linguistic background of the word, offering readers a deeper appreciation of the richness and diversity of human expression. With engaging explanations and anecdotes, Moore highlights the beauty and complexity of these words, making the book a compelling read for linguists, translators, and anyone with a passion for language.

Book #2: Falsos Friends, False Amigos, Larousse Editorial (2016)

Books for translators #2: Falsos Friends, False Amigos
El libro para mantenerlos a raya
Larousse

This book offers an illustrated and practical guide designed to help language lovers navigate the tricky world of false cognates—words in different languages that appear similar but have different meanings.

Sample page from Falsos Friends, False Amigos

The book focuses on pairs of words in English and Spanish that can easily be confused due to their deceptive similarities. Each entry explains the meanings of these “false friends” in both languages, providing examples and context to clarify their usage. This resource is invaluable for students, translators, and bilingual speakers who want to avoid common pitfalls and improve their accuracy in both languages.

Book #3: The Languages of the World (Third Edition), by Kenneth Katzner (2002)

Books for translators #3 cover: The Languages of the World
Kenneth Katzner

The Languages of the World provides a comprehensive overview of the world’s languages, their structures, and their global significance. Katzner explores the diversity of languages spoken across different continents, covering both major world languages and lesser-known ones.

The book delves into linguistic typology, language families and their historical development, shedding light on the processes of language change over time. Featuring an accessible writing style, this book is perfect not only for translators but also for non-specialist language lovers.

Book #4: The Translator’s Invisibility: A History of Translation (Second Edition), by Lawrence Venuti (2008)

Book #4 cover: Routledge Translation Classics
The Translator's Invisibility
A History of Translation
Lawrence Venuti

Venuti’s book delves into the often overlooked yet crucial role of translators in the literary world. Venuti explores the concept of “translator’s invisibility,” a cultural norm where translators are expected to produce seamless, transparent translations that appear as if they were originally written in the target language. The book traces the history of this phenomenon, examining how it has shaped and been shaped by various cultural, social, and economic forces.

Venuti argues for greater recognition and visibility of translators, advocating for a shift towards more ethically responsible translation practices that acknowledge the translator’s influence and creative contribution. Through historical analysis and case studies, Venuti provides a compelling critique of the traditional expectations placed on translators and offers insights into the complexities of translation as both an art and a profession.

Book #5: Women, Fire, and Dangerous Things: What Categories Reveal About the Mind, by George Lakoff (1987)

Book #5 cover: Women, Fire, and Dangerous Things
What Categories Reveal about the Mind

In Women, Fire, and Dangerous Things, cognitive linguist George Lakoff delves into how we categorize the world around us, arguing that this shapes how we think. The book challenges the traditional view that categories are fixed and objective, demonstrating instead that they are fluid, context-dependent, and often metaphorical.

By analyzing language and thought, Lakoff explores the far-reaching influence of categorization on human cognition. This work not only provides insights into the nature of human thought but also has profound implications for fields such as linguistics, psychology, anthropology, and philosophy.

We have reached the end of this exciting exploration of exceptional reads! Whether you’re a seasoned translator or an enthusiastic language learner, these books offer valuable knowledge, captivating stories, and a deeper appreciation for the power of language. So, uncover these linguistic gems, and embark on a journey that will transform your understanding of communication and connection across cultures. Happy reading!