Voices of Today Literary Translation Prize: Winning Translation of Liu Zhenyun’s Latest Novel Published

The winning translation from the inaugural Voices of Today Literary Translation Prize is now available to read on Paper Republic.

Launched by Singing Grass in partnership with Paper Republic, the prize was created to discover and support new voices in Chinese-English literary translation. More than 100 translators from 14 countries took part, translating an extract from Liu Zhenyun’s latest novel, 《咸的玩笑》. Jenny Lu, from the University of Queensland, was awarded the first prize, with Yaqi Xi and Alexis Wu named joint runners-up.

L-R: Author and BIBF reading ambassador Liu Zhenyu and Alicia Liu, CEO of Singing Grass, announcing the winners of The Voices of Today Literary Translation Prize. Singing Grass x Paper Republic | BIBF 2026

Read the winning translation on Paper Republic →

Voices of Today Literary Translation Prize
Founded by Singing Grass and Paper Republic in 2026, the prize aims to connect contemporary Chinese literature with English-language readers while supporting the next generation of Chinese-English literary translators.

About Singing Grass 

Singing Grass is a UK and China based cultural communications agency with the objective of building meaningful bridges between Chinese and English-language publishing and the arts. We specialise in representation, research projects and cultural exchange, helping Chinese publishers and authors find the right international partners, and supporting Western publishers discover new voices from the East.

About Paper Republic 

Paper Republic is a registered Charity in the UK, run by a team of volunteers and trustees. We identify the very best new Chinese writing, and promote it to English-language readers; we publish translations of short fiction and poetry online, all completely free to read; and we help translators produce higher-quality translations, by providing education, information and resources.