Abstract:
This article investigates the publication of titles in English and Afrikaans (one
title published in two languages) by looking specifically at three publishers: LAPA Uitgewers, Jacana Media and NB Publishers. Furthermore, the article
examines why some books are more likely to be published bilingually than others
in the sector of trade non-fiction for adults specifically; this excludes children’s
literature as well as titles in the religious trade sector. Bilingual publications from
the period 2010–2014 are investigated for the article in order to examine this
phenomenon over a relatively recent period of time. The research determines
what the reasons are for publishers to publish in both languages, how the
decision-making process takes place, and whether the timing of publishing
bilingual titles plays a significant role in their publishing strategy. By investigating
the reasons publishers use to make their decisions, the possible future of this
trend is predicted. This information was collected through an investigation of
available literature and also through interviews with key role players at the
publishing houses.
