Migration Literature in Translation: From Latinx Texts to Transnational Readers

Migration Literature in Translation explores the unique case of Latinx literature translated into Spanish, drawing from Latinx studies, sociology, political philosophy and cultural studies. The book focuses on works by Helena María Viramontes, Achy Obejas, Daisy Hernández and Junot Díaz, analysing migration literature and translation as a social practice. Cussel introduces the ‘integrated translation critique’, a new methodology that examines the transformation of texts through translation and their reception, while incorporating empirical social research methods. This innovative approach highlights the roles of various actors—scholars, translators, authors, reviewers, and readers— in shaping Latinx literary texts’ mobility and meaning across languages and cultures. Through qualitative research including focus groups, questionnaires and fieldwork in Europe, Latin America and the US, Cussel sheds light on how transnational readers engage with translated migrant stories. By addressing the cultural, social and political dimensions of translation, this interdisciplinary work offers a sociological perspective on literary translation. It is essential reading for scholars and students in the sociology of translation, Latinx and migration literature, and migration studies.