Recommended Books

As a lover of languages, translation, and terminology, I’ve compiled a list of books in my personal library that have deepened my understanding of these fields. Here, you’ll find essential reads on language structure, the art of translation, and the importance of precise terminology. This collection serves as a resource for fellow translators, language enthusiasts, and anyone passionate about the nuances of communication.

Vocabulando

Isa Mara Lando

A book for Brazilian Portuguese speakers who want to expand their English vocabulary. It’s full of practical expressions and explanations.

Macmillan Phrasal Verbs Plus

Publishers Macmillan

Focuses on English phrasal verbs, which are often a nightmare for learners. Good for anyone brushing up on those tricky, everyday expressions.

Common Errors in English Usage

Paul Brians

Handy guide for anyone tripping over English’s oddities. It’s like having a little grammar buddy to set you straight on the common mistakes we all make.

Lost in Translation

Ella Frances Sanders

This one’s all about untranslatable words from different languages, with lovely illustrations. Perfect if you enjoy quirky language facts and want a bit of culture mixed in.

The Irish Words You Should Know

Hector Ó hEochagáin

Since I live in Ireland, I wanted to add this fun collection of Irish words and phrases. Good craic for anyone wanting to get a bit closer to the Irish language.

Languages of the World

Asya Pereltsvaig

Think of this as a big picture tour of the languages out there. Covers the world’s linguistic diversity and gives you a taste of everything from well-known languages to lesser-known ones.

The Power of Language

Viorica Marian

Goes into how language shapes our worldviews and society. A deeper dive into the influence words have on how we think and live.

Empires of the Word

Nicholas Ostler

A big sweeping look at the languages that built empires, from ancient times to now. If you’re into history and linguistics, this one’s a gem.

Is That a Fish in Your Ear?

David Bellos

All about the wacky, wonderful world of translation and how it changes everything. Full of insights into how translation works (and doesn’t!).

The Last Lingua Franca

Nicholas Ostler

Looks at English as the global language and what might replace it someday. Thought-provoking stuff about the future of communication.

Translating Cultures

David Katan and Mustapha Taibi

Deals with the challenges of translating across cultures. If you’re into cultural studies, this is the one for you.

Terminology

M. Teresa Cabré Castellví

This one’s a more technical guide on managing specialised terms in different fields. Essential reading if you’re deep into translation or linguistics.

In Other Words

Mona Baker

This one’s by Mona Baker is like the translator’s go-to guide. It digs deep into the nuts and bolts of translation, covering how to deal with tricky words, grammar quirks, and cultural differences that pop up when you’re switching between languages.

Babel

R. F. Kuang

A fiction book – It’s a fascinating story about identity, power, and resistance in a world where language has the power to change realities.

How We Are Translated

Jessica Gaitán Johannesson

Another fiction book – A novel about language barriers, identity, and relationships. It explores what it means to live between languages. Quirky and thoughtful!

There you go – a mix of history, culture, and practical language tips, all in one shelf!

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