British publisher Tilted Axis is making waves by championing experimental translated literature, having achieved recognition through various accolades. Initially gaining fame for a unique Singaporean story collection, the publisher is now expanding into the U.S. market.
A Small Publisher’s Bold Leap into the World of Translated Literature
A Small Publisher’s Bold Leap into the World of Translated Literature
Tilted Axis is paving the way in the U.S. with its innovative approach to experimental literature. Their decision to amplify underrepresented voices has garnered significant accolades.
Tilted Axis, known for its focus on subversive works, is on an ambitious mission to bring unique and experimental literature to the forefront. Their particular interest in texts previously unavailable in English has set them apart in the publishing landscape.
One notable success story is the collection "Delicious Hunger," authored by the guerrilla soldier Hai Fan, which took an unexpectedly long journey to reach readers. Jeremy Tiang, the translator, discovered this intriguing work while browsing a bookstore in Singapore. When he presented it to Tilted Axis, they eagerly accepted it and eventually published it in Britain, where it won an English PEN Translates Award. This was historic as it marked the first Singaporean book to achieve this honor.
However, the task of breaking into the U.S. book market proved to be a steeper climb. Tiang’s submission of "Delicious Hunger" was declined by 29 American publishers before Tilted Axis made the strategic decision to penetrate this market as part of their growth. With their expansion, "Delicious Hunger" will be launched in the U.S. this June, alongside around 20 other titles from their catalogue arriving this year.
Tilted Axis’s commitment to innovative literature shows that while major publishers may shy away from riskier works, smaller presses can successfully carve out new spaces for such narratives in the literary world. As they bring their unique offerings to North America, there's great anticipation among readers eager for fresh perspectives.
One notable success story is the collection "Delicious Hunger," authored by the guerrilla soldier Hai Fan, which took an unexpectedly long journey to reach readers. Jeremy Tiang, the translator, discovered this intriguing work while browsing a bookstore in Singapore. When he presented it to Tilted Axis, they eagerly accepted it and eventually published it in Britain, where it won an English PEN Translates Award. This was historic as it marked the first Singaporean book to achieve this honor.
However, the task of breaking into the U.S. book market proved to be a steeper climb. Tiang’s submission of "Delicious Hunger" was declined by 29 American publishers before Tilted Axis made the strategic decision to penetrate this market as part of their growth. With their expansion, "Delicious Hunger" will be launched in the U.S. this June, alongside around 20 other titles from their catalogue arriving this year.
Tilted Axis’s commitment to innovative literature shows that while major publishers may shy away from riskier works, smaller presses can successfully carve out new spaces for such narratives in the literary world. As they bring their unique offerings to North America, there's great anticipation among readers eager for fresh perspectives.
