In a city brimming with bookstores, Clevo Books stands out for its singular focus: translated literature from around the world. Founded by translator Cathryn Siegel-Bergman, the shop brings international voices to local readers, offering a curated selection that ranges from Japanese horror to contemporary classics. We spoke with Cathryn to learn more about what inspired her to open Clevo Books, the reading trends she’s noticed, and the joys and challenges of running an independent bookstore dedicated to global storytelling.
1. What inspired you to open your bookstore, and how has your vision for it evolved over time?
I’m a translator. I decided to find a project I could translate and publish on my own. That led to opening a bookstore that focuses on selling only translated literature from around the world.
2. What kinds of books or genres resonate most with your customers, and have you noticed any recent shifts in reading trends?
People ask a lot about romance or business books, but those don’t get translated very frequently. Japanese horror and mystery are having their moment right now.
3. How do you balance stocking national bestsellers with supporting local authors and small presses?
The thing about translated literature is that most of the books are bestsellers in their country of origin. We try to prioritize newer titles, but feel compelled to keep certain classics as well. Just about all the presses are small. We do make an exception to our specialization to offer nonfiction books about our city by local authors.
4. What’s your favorite part of running an independent bookstore — and what’s the most challenging?
I love introducing avid readers to new authors from around the world, but sometimes that can also be the biggest challenge because people have strong expectations of what a bookstore should carry. Most are open to it, but some walk right out without a word if they don’t see what they’re looking for.
About Cathryn Siegel-Bergman:
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levo Books was founded by Cathryn Siegal-Bergman. Cathryn moved to Cleveland at a young age and graduated from Cleveland State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Philosophy and German. She later earned her Master’s Degree in Translation Studies from the Institute for Applied Linguistics at Kent State University.
Cathryn worked as a freelance translator for various direct clients on different translated books, including publishers. She is a big believer in giving credit to translators who work so hard to provide us with different and unique fiction and nonfiction books!