Henning Mankell: European Translation and Success Factors

Abstract

This article examines how and why the work of the Swedish crime writer, Henning Mankell, travelled successfully across Europe. It informs strategies enabling small nation authors to navigate the international platform and access global markets. Research includes a series of original interviews with publishing figures contributing to the international status of Mankell’s Kurt Wallander series. Their views are presented across an author case study detailing: initial reception, original publisher, move into the international sphere, English-language publisher and narrative content. Findings determine that a committed and well-respected network of publishers, in key markets, is vital when bringing a good story to readers across the globe.