A Small Publisher’s Bold Leap into Experimental Literature Gains Recognition

Tilted Axis, known for its focus on subversive and experimental literature from around the globe, is breaking into the North American book market, showcasing unique voices that major publishers often overlook.

A few years ago, a Singaporean author writing under the pseudonym Hai Fan caught the attention of translator Jeremy Tiang when he stumbled upon the enigmatic book, "Delicious Hunger," in a bookstore in Singapore. This collection of stories vividly reflected Fan’s tumultuous experiences as a guerrilla soldier with the Malayan Communist Party, drawn from years spent battling in the jungles of Malaysia and Thailand. Recognizing the potential challenge of finding an English-language publisher for such a niche project, Tiang turned to Tilted Axis, a small British press celebrated for championing unconventional and experimental works in translation.

To Tiang's delight, Tilted Axis quickly picked up the manuscript, leading to its release in Britain last fall. The book not only resonated with critics but also won an English PEN Translates Award, marking a significant milestone as the first title from Singapore to receive this honor. However, the journey to publish "Delicious Hunger" in the United States was fraught with difficulties. It faced rejection from 29 American publishers, each hesitant to embrace the unconventional nature of the work.

In an exciting turn of events, Tilted Axis announced its forthcoming publication in the U.S., with "Delicious Hunger" set to hit shelves this June as part of a larger collection that will introduce American readers to nearly 20 unique titles from the Tilted Axis catalog this year. This expansion not only showcases the publisher's commitment to diversifying the literary landscape but also highlights the growing appetite for innovative translated literature, which continues to challenge and inspire readers around the globe. The first batch is expected to arrive this month, and anticipation is high for what this small publisher will bring to an American audience hungry for fresh, bold narratives.