Women in translation have such a rich literary history. Sharing experiences across languages and borders, this pick of women finding themselves will showcase how to find your own voice beyond borders.
Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata, translated by Ginny Tapley Takemori
Keiko Furukura is a thirty-six-year old convenience store worker. Working for the same branch of Smile Mart since she was eighteen, Keiko has never felt like she fit in. But at Smile Mart, the rules of work make it easy for Keiko to be a version of herself that’s missing when she is not in the store and unable to figure out the social rules for being a single woman in her 30s. When a new colleague joins, the unwritten rules of the store are turned upside down and Keiko must figure out who she really is after increasing pressure from colleagues, family and friends. I loved seeing Keiko finding herself and accepting who she really is despite her circumstances. It’s a quick and light read.
Woman at Point Zero by Nawal El Saadawi, translated by Sherif Hetata
From her prison cell, Firdaus recounts her life story to the prison doctor, a harrowing journey that began when she was sold into slavery as a child. Despite countless obstacles, she struggled to reclaim her sense of self, only to end up in prison, sentenced to death. In her final days, she reflects on the choices and circumstances that led her there. This book has stayed with me, haunting yet brief, I read it in a single sitting and highly recommend it.
Welcome to the Hyunam-Dong Bookshop by Hwang Bo-Reum, translated by Shanna Tan
Yeongju is burned out and ready to quit. She has the perfect life, a demanding marriage, busy social life and a high flying career but she isn’t happy. One day, she quits her job, divorces her husband and moves to a quiet neighbourhood to open a bookshop. At first all Yeongju can do is cry but as she throws herself into constructing the bookshop and making friends with the locals, she finds purpose and meaning in recommending books to patrons, hosting author events and even guiding teenagers onto their next steps in the world. A life affirming and meaningful book that shows that we must listen to our own voices first and foremost.
The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank, translated Susan Massotty
Who in the world doesn’t know Anne Frank? Her story touched millions of hearts but she really was just a young girl trying to find her voice and stay hopeful under the most extreme circumstances. Her father eventually published her diaries as a book after her death, but this is a hopeful, funny and brilliant depiction of a young girl as she emerges into womanhood.
Girls of Riyadh by Rajaa Alsanea, translated by Marilyn Booth
If you’re looking for a soapy book with drama, secrets and lies, this book in translation from Saudi author Rajaa Alsanea is a tale of friends whose lives are turned upside down when explosive secrets are revealed from an anonymous source. Take this book with a pinch of salt, but for a book that will have you rolling your eyes but also staying up late to read just one more page.
Something Bookish Curators are always on the lookout for the next great read to add to your #TBR. Whether it’s a backlist gem, a breakout debut, the book everyone will be talking about next, or a beloved classic, we’ve got recommendations you won’t want to miss. Join the conversation and read along with us on social!
