Katarína Blašková
(not only) book translator
I am a translator based in Slovakia with a background in English language teaching. After several years of teaching, I came to understand what Socrates meant by his quote, Know thyself. I realized that teaching was not my true vocation.
Elke Wiss : How to Know Everything
My first translation to Slovak was from the English version of this Dutch bestseller. The book presents many examples of common misunderstandings caused by miscommunication or ineffective ways of communicating, and explains what lies behind them. Since Elke Wiss is a practical philosopher, her work focuses on the everyday application of philosophical knowledge aimed at personal growth and self-improvement.As a reader, I not only learned a great deal from the book itself, but I also gained valuable experience as a beginning translator. In particular, I learned how to preserve both the meaning and the original style of the text, especially when translating idiomatic expressions.The book was published by INTEREZ MEDIA in 2025.
Mariette Boon & Liesbeth van Rossum: Fat, the secret organ
My second translation project was another Dutch bestseller, which I translated from the English version into Slovak. This non-fiction book is based on the latest insights into body fat and its impact on our health in ways we might not normally expect. The two scientists combine research findings with patients’ stories to demonstrate the effects of fat tissue on the human body, including some extremely rare cases.Through translating this book, I realized how important it is to take care of our health. I also reacquainted myself with many chemical and medical terms and, probably somewhat involuntarily, informed my friends and family about the risks associated with both low and high levels of body fat.The book is scheduled to be published by INTEREZ MEDIA in Q2 2026; therefore, the preview is not yet available.
About
After several years of teaching, I realized I needed a different profession - one that better reflected my strengths and personal interests. Working independently and engaging deeply with language proved to be a natural fit for me.During my university studies, I developed a strong appreciation for literature. I began to miss the depth of working with stories, ideas, and the subtle power of words. I returned to what I value most — the quiet intensity of language — and began a new chapter as a translator.My work includes the Slovak translations of How to Know Everything by Elke Wiss and Fat: The Secret Organ by Mariette Boon and Liesbeth van Rossum — both insightful books that connect expert knowledge with real-life application.Thanks to my interdisciplinary academic background, which combines the natural sciences and the humanities, I feel particularly confident working with texts related to nature, philosophy, and psychology.I believe it is never too late to change direction. Everyone deserves to find their niche—and become the best version of themselves.
