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.
Isa Mara Lando
A book for Brazilian Portuguese speakers who want to expand their English vocabulary. It’s full of practical expressions and explanations.
Publishers Macmillan
Focuses on English phrasal verbs, which are often a nightmare for learners. Good for anyone brushing up on those tricky, everyday expressions.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!).
Nicholas Ostler
Looks at English as the global language and what might replace it someday. Thought-provoking stuff about the future of communication.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!