Sam Taylor, 53, transitioned to literary translation after realizing that writing alone could not support his family. Living in rural France with four published novels, he began his new career with Laurent Binet’s Goncourt-winning novel, HHhH. His translation work has led to collaborations with authors like Leila Slimani and David Diop. Now residing in Texas, Taylor has returned to writing with his new novel, The Two Loves of Sophie Strom.

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The novel, set in 1930s Vienna, follows 13-year-old Max Spiegelman, whose home is set ablaze by antisemitic neighbors. In an alternative universe, the fire leaves him orphaned and adopted by an Aryan family, renaming him Hans, who is encouraged to join the Hitler-Jugend. Max and Hans, despite their opposing paths in history, dream of each other’s lives.

Taylor explains that the idea stemmed from a line in his first novel, The Republic of Trees, which explored themes of duality. The setting of the 1930s and World War II was chosen for its stark contrasts in fate for the protagonist, highlighting the conflicting realities between Max and Hans.

A significant theme in the book is the pursuit of common ground amidst division. Taylor reflects on contemporary societal divides, particularly in Texas, where he encounters individuals with differing political views, yet finds the humanity in them.

After publishing his last novel, The Island at the End of the World, in 2009, Taylor focused on translating about 50 books while navigating personal changes, including divorce and relocation to the U.S. His first translation, HHhH, published in 2012, marked a turning point in his career, demonstrating significant success as a translator.

Taylor describes translating as an in-depth process akin to 'X-raying' a book, allowing translators to connect deeply with the authors and their works. He acknowledges the challenge of balancing his love for writing and translating, expressing that translation saved his career during a financially difficult period.

Though he has adapted to American English, Taylor maintains his British accent and often seeks clarification from his American wife on certain expressions. His current reading list includes Ovid’s Metamorphoses and Maggie O’Farrell’s Hamnet, while he frequently revisits Donna Tartt’s The Secret History due to its captivating narrative.

Despite the low translation rates in the English-speaking literary world, Taylor sees hope for growth in the field. He cites Hubert Mingarelli's novel, Une rivière verte et silencieuse, as a deserving work for translation. Looking ahead, he is excited to translate Victor Jestin's second novel, following the success of Jestin's debut, Heatwave.

The Two Loves of Sophie Strom is published by Faber for £18.99.