Translating YA Arabic Literature: Exploring Limits, Negotiating Expectations

Young adult (YA) literature typically explores and reflects the trials, tribulations and jubilations of youthful lives. Given that cultures shape the trajectories of life, and given the rich diversity of global cultures, how much does YA literature translated from Arabic change — if at all — as it is transported into English? How are gaps in contextual appreciation and appropriateness addressed in the Anglosphere publishing arena? What role does the translator play in negotiating and resolving the (sometimes discordant) expectations of editors, authors and readers, all while being cognizant of the fine line between providing entertainment and combating the colonization of a text? Delving into her oeuvre of past and upcoming YA books in translation, the speaker will share her experience-honed thoughts on these questions.