Hello everybody:
Those who know me already know that I’ve been publishing my books and posts in this blog for over two years (I’ve been writing for much longer), in Spanish and English. I’ve lived, studied (Psychiatry, a BA and a PhD in American Literature and a Masters in Criminology) and worked in the UK for many years now and the truth is that I didn’t give it much thought and it seemed the normal thing to do to publish in both languages, although it meant spending more time working before I could publish my books (as I always try and publish both versions at the same time).
Despite the time involved, translating a text helps me to read it and to become submerged in it totally, that results in an in depth editing of the original. Reading it slowly one notices details that might escape even repeat fast lectures.
A few months ago I started translating other people’s book, and the same is true for those. I spend a lot of time with the book, living with it, and if I notice some typo or misplaced detail in the original I let the author know. The process is more complicated than with my own books, as the correct interpretation of the texts requires working closely with the author to clarify any details that could be confusing.
After a few months doing it and enjoying it (although it is a job that requires dedication and many hours) I’ve decided to adjust my prices ($40 per 1000 words of text) in the same conditions as before. I’m happy to offer a short sample translation for free (a page or a page and a half), or a longer one (a whole chapter or a number of pages) for the price as stated, that would be deducted from the final price if the project goes ahead. Most of the authors I’ve worked with so far have preferred to pay by instalments and that’s not a problem (although of course before I sent the final manuscript I require the payment in full), and the translation also includes the description/synopsis of the book, the blurb (including a brief biography if that is used for the paper version), and a few promo Tweets (if the author so wishes), a press release or a post for a blog also translated at no extra cost. (As I usually publish reviews in my blog and in others, I will also publish a review of the finished book, although as I’ll appear as translator, I could not post it to any of the shops officially, at least not for the translated version).
More recently several authors I know have asked me to check and proofread some translations of their works, to ensure there were no typos or anything missing. That is also fascinating work (as it allows me to learn from the work of other translators) and as it takes me far less time I’m currently charging approximately $100 per 100 pages.
Apart from translations of books and the corrections and proofreading already mentioned, I also offer shorter translations (blog posts, press releases, biographies for the author page in Amazon or other sites, Tweets, synopsis and descriptions, letters to publishing companies and authors, interviews…) for very reasonable rates, depending on length. Ask me and we’ll talk about it.
If you want more details about my works, here I leave you my web page.
And the cover of Virgin of the Sun by Jordi Díez, that I love and really enjoyed translating (and I learned a lot about the Incas!). The next novel I’ve translated for another author is nearly ready…but for the moment we’re keeping it quiet.
Thanks to all of you for reading, and if you’ve found it interesting, you know, like, comment, share and CLICK! And if you’d like to chat about a translation, leave me a note and I’ll be in touch. Of course, previous clients always have a special price.
Note: Ah, several authors have asked me about the possibility of doing translations for a percentage of the royalties of the book. I’ve thought about it although currently due to time constraints I wouldn’t be able to do it, but I’ll think about in the future, and might participate in a special project every so often. If I do it, I’ll advertise it and see if there’s any interest. I’m also happy to consider exchanging a translation for other services.
And I could not help but share the image David Cronin (husband of a great friend and fabulous blogger, Sally, visit here) created for me. He’s also doing a great series on how to create an e-book in Sally’s blog, so don’t miss.
Just Olga 