What are the most common mistakes authors make when self-publishing?

Something I have seen quite a lot lately in the self-publishing world: trying to do everything by yourself. Thinking that you just need Photoshop to make a cover, spell-checking software to edit, a dictionary and a bit of knowledge to translate. Never underestimate the value of a human profess...

What is your approach to translating a manuscript, and what steps do you take to ensure cultural and linguistic accuracy?

The translation process isn't always the same - books come in all shapes and sizes, authors have different backgrounds and target audiences, and genres require different sets of tools. Whenever possible I like to first familiarize myself with the author, their voice and the st...

How much does a translator typically adapt a manuscript when translating it for a different language or culture?

That's a great question and I believe it doesn't have a one-fits-all answer. First of all, what is "changing" a manuscript? Language doesn't happen in a vacuum, it has culture, history, a social background, and horizons of expectations formed by the readers as soon as t...

Mariafelicia Maione, Translator in Pisa, Province of Pisa, Italy

Overview

I got my master degree in Foreign Languages and Culture and subsequent specialization in literary translation in 2012 and I've been translating non-stop ever since, working on a variety of genres and giving my all to every project. Most of my translations have been published by Newton Compton, one of Italy's biggest publishing houses.

Every author has a voice and style and I've learned to select the best language to carry that into Italian, striving to create the same effect originally planned for the story. I pay close attention to cultural aspects that we must not lose in translation. My experience has taught me to put the source text and my future audience on the same level of importance and help them meet in the middle of great stories, across time and space.

If we work together, you can be sure of my attention to detail and punctuality. Good communication is key, so I recommend discussing all the practical aspects upfront - quotes, deadlines, updates required during the process. I'll make a point of informing you promptly of any major translation decision that needs to be made. In the past, I've worked on several series, checking and rechecking previous books, so if something escaped editing, you can bet I'll find and correct it - you'll receive a final text proofread at the best of my ability. Mythology, Romance, LGBTQIA+, Young Adult, are all part of my expertise - in any setting, I'll strive for accuracy and respect. I'm looking forward to making your inspiring work accessible to the Italian public!