Traduttore, traditore: An act of translation is always an act of betrayal.
Babel is a profound exploration of the complexities of language, power, and colonialism, set against the backdrop of the British Empire's expansion.
When orphan Robin Swift is brought from Canton to London by Professor Lovell, he embarks on an intense education in languages and translation, aiming for a bright future at Oxford University's Royal Institute of Translation, known as Babel. This institution stands at the heart of the Empire's superiority, harnessing the mystical power of silver working to manifest the elusive meanings lost in translation.
As Robin becomes entrenched in the scholastic utopia of Babel, his ties to his heritage pull him into an inner conflict. When an aggressive war threatens China over silver and opium, Robin is torn between the comfort of academia and the call for justice. He must confront a crucial question: Can change come from within, or is violence an inevitable part of revolution?
Sinopticon: A Celebration of Chinese Science Fiction is a groundbreaking anthology that brings together thirteen extraordinary tales of speculative fiction from China, translated into English for the very first time. Curated and translated by the critically acclaimed writer and essayist Xueting Christine Ni, this collection offers a diverse and captivating array of stories that will take readers on a journey through the imaginative landscapes of Chinese science fiction.
From the celebrated Jiang Bo's 'Starship: Library' to Regina Kanyu Wang's 'The Tide of Moon City', and Anna Wu's 'Meisje met de Parel', readers are presented with a tapestry of narratives that span a variety of themes and perspectives. The writers featured in this anthology include award winners, bestsellers, screenwriters, playwrights, philosophers, university lecturers, and computer programmers, showcasing the breadth and depth of Chinese SF.
Sinopticon invites readers to explore the transformational and often visionary world of Chinese speculative fiction, making it an essential read for all fans of the genre.
No, Really, Where Are You From? by Nancy Ng offers an insightful glimpse into the lives of eight Chinese individuals who navigate the complexities of being a visible minority in Canada. Through vivid storytelling, Ng explores the experiences of these individuals with their Chinese culture from childhood to adulthood, painting a portrait of the diverse ways in which they connect with their heritage.
The book delves into the broader themes of global migration and its significant impact on ethnic identity. It presents the nuanced and often challenging journey of ethnic identity retention and loss, which is not a matter of absolutes but is in a constant state of evolution and redefinition. Nancy Ng's work is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the human spirit in the face of cultural shifts and societal pressures.