On Translation and Dissemination Mode of Chinese Original COVID-19 Picture Books in the Era of Digital Globalization

Abstract

In the era of digital globalization, multimedia technology is changing children s reading habits and accelerating the pace of translation and publication of picture books. Since the COVID-19 outbreak in early 2020, the program “Picture Books about COVID-19 for Children Around the World” has been launched. This program appeals for Chinese publishing houses to donate picture books’ international copyright and volunteers to offer free translation. Consequently, 11 Chinese original COVID-19 picture books have been translated into foreign languages and published online for free reading within weeks. An innovative mode of translation and dissemination have been adopted in the program. The paper examines three important factors related to its mode, namely what to translate, who translate, the means to promote translation. Then it proposes to seize translation and dissemination opportunities, adopt multi-modal and multi-dimensional transmission routes and through innovative promotion and marketing channels to enhance translation efficiency and expand influence of Chinese picture books in foreign markets.