The popularity of translated fiction has been steadily increasing over the past decade, thanks to independent publishers taking risks on unique and innovative stories. Publishers such as Fitzcarraldo and And Other Stories have gained recognition in major literary awards like the Nobel Prize for Literature and the International Booker Prize.
In a recent ceremony held at the Tate Modern’s Turbine Hall, Taiwan Travelogue by Yáng Shuāng-zǐ, translated from Mandarin Chinese by Lin King, was announced as the winners of the 2026 International Booker Prize. This win is particularly significant as Yáng and King are the first Taiwanese and Taiwanese-American recipients in the history of the award, with Taiwan Travelogue being the first winning book translated from Mandarin Chinese.
The prize money of £50,000 will be split equally between the author and translator, with both receiving accolades at the London event. This victory marks the second consecutive year that And Other Stories has claimed the top prize in translated fiction, following their win in 2025 with Heart Lamp by Banu Mushtaq, translated by Deepa Bhasthi.
Yáng and Lin shared their thoughts on Taiwan Travelogue with Dr. Aimée Walsh, The Mirror’s resident book critic, emphasizing the importance of translation in bridging cultures. The novel, set in 1930s Taiwan, delves into themes of colonization and identity through the eyes of Aoyama, a Japanese writer exploring the island’s culture and complexities.
Through Aoyama’s interactions with the Taiwanese people and their customs, the novel sheds light on the historical context of Japanese colonialism and subsequent influences from China. The story challenges notions of imperialism and cultural superiority, prompting readers to reflect on power dynamics and the impact of colonial legacies.
Yáng highlighted the significance of portraying a female protagonist with a complex perspective on colonization, emphasizing the evolving narratives of identity and power dynamics. The novel delves into the intricacies of Taiwan’s political history and the challenges faced by its people in navigating cultural and linguistic diversity.
Lin emphasized the role of translation in amplifying diverse voices and narratives, noting that translated works serve as a form of resistance against literary homogeneity. By translating stories into English, authors like Yáng seek to reach wider audiences and challenge dominant narratives, fostering a more inclusive and interconnected literary landscape.
