Susan E. Jones
Japanese–English Literary Translator
Literary Translation | Commercial Translation | Narration
I am a Japanese to English translator with over 25 years of professional experience. I have a particular interest in Japanese children’s literature, and I enjoy balancing the interplay of language, illustrations, and culture in my work.
I also teach translation at the university level and am actively involved in the professional translation and children's literature communities in Japan, serving as Translator Coordinator for SCBWI Japan and as a member of SWET (Society of Writers, Editors, and Translators).
Literary Translation
Bringing Japanese Stories to English-language Readers
One Two Three!『いち にの さん！』
Written and illustrated by Kanayo Sugiyama, One Two Three! was designed to bridge barriers between children of diverse linguistic backgrounds in Japan. The text appears in nine languages on each page, inviting readers to revel in the playful story while exploring other languages with friends. (English translation by me, other translators listed on the publisher’s website.)
Published by Doshinsha in 2025, One Two Three! is a JBBY nomination for the Accessible Books category of the 2027 IBBY Outstanding Books for Young People with Disabilities.
Sample Translations & Synopses
Full-book and excerpt translation, synopsis/reader report services also provided.
Other Literary Translation
Fortress of Smiles『笑顔の砦 RE-CREATION』
Written by Kurō Tanino
Surtitles, 2019
Subtitles, 2020 (The Japan Foundation)
Accessible subtitles (descriptions of sound effects and audio cues for deaf and hard-of-hearing audiences), 2023 for No Limits inclusive arts festival in Hong Kong
Commercial Translation
Professional, meticulous, efficient work for valued clients
For over 25 years, I have worked on a wide variety of Japanese–English translation projects across different industries and fields. From media and hospitality to arts and culture, I bring careful attention to language, context and audience to every project.
Areas of experience include:
Media & Communications: TV program and documentary subtitles, press releases, video narration scripts, speeches
Hospitality & Tourism: Hotel brochures, seasonal promotions, service standards handbook, spa website
Arts & Culture: Art exhibition catalog and related materials
Official & Personal Documents: Family registers, tax returns and other official documents
Voice-over & Narration
Midwestern American English
With over 30 years of professional voice-over and narration experience, I have provided clear, natural American English narration for a wide range of media, educational and commercial projects. My experience includes everything from documentary films and promotional videos to educational materials and public announcements.
Areas of experience include:
Film & Television: TV promotional screeners and documentary films
Corporate & Commercial: Company product promotional videos
Education: ESL listening materials accompanying published textbooks
Public Announcements: Train and subway announcements, department store announcements and radio announcements
Broadcasting: Former host of a bilingual radio program
