120,000+ Books, Games & Puzzles in-stock 🇳🇿

Come visit us this weekend! Auckland Bookstore open 8:30am-5:00pm Sat & Sun 🎉

Babel

Collector's Edition
By R.F. Kuang
0.0 (0 reviews)
Brief Description
Traduttore, traditore: An act of translation is always an act of betrayal. Oxford, 1836. The city of dreaming spires. It is the centre of all knowledge and progress in the world. And at its centre is Babel, the Royal Institute of Translation. The tower from which... Read More
$4999
Elsewhere:
$5999
Pre-order
Releases 13th October 2026 (Approx. Date) Pre-order  "Babel" now to secure your copy from our first shipment

Found a better price? Request a price match

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Traduttore, traditore: An act of translation is always an act of betrayal.

Oxford, 1836.

The city of dreaming spires.

It is the centre of all knowledge and progress in the world.

And at its centre is Babel, the Royal Institute of Translation. The tower from which all the power of the Empire flows.

Orphaned in Canton and brought to England by a mysterious guardian, Babel seemed like paradise to Robin Swift.

Until it became a prison…

But can a student stand against an empire?

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780008776732

Publisher: Unknown

Date Published: 03 November 2026

DIMENSIONS

Weight: 250g

Collections

Coming Soon in Fiction Fiction General Fiction Historical Fantasy Horror & Supernatural Pre-order Books Pre-Order Science Fiction & Fantasy Pre-orders Pre-orders by Release Date R.F. Kuang Sci-Fi & Fantasy

Also by R.F. Kuang

View all
  • On Sale
    14% off
    Katabasis
    'Katabasis is a formidable, timeless work, destined to be a modern classic' OLIVIE BLAKE 'Katabasis is more than a novel to savor. This book is an experience. I envy those who get to read it for the first time' REBECCA ROSS 'A witty, gory, harrowing ride' LEIGH BARDUGO Katabasis, noun, Ancient Greek. The story of a hero's descent to the underworld. Grad student Alice Law...
    By R.F. Kuang
    Paperback
    $2500
    Elsewhere:
    $3799
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • Babel
    Traduttore, traditore: An act of translation is always an act of betrayal. Oxford, 1836. The city of dreaming spires. It is the centre of all knowledge and progress in the world. And at its centre is Babel, the Royal Institute of Translation. The tower from which all the power of the Empire flows. Orphaned in Canton and brought to England...
    By R.F. Kuang
    Paperback
    $2500
    Elsewhere:
    $3999
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • The Burning God
    The thrilling conclusion to R.F. Kuang's acclaimed and award-winning Poppy War trilogy, The Burning God, presents a masterful blend of 20th-century Chinese history, mythology, and compelling world-building. This epic fantasy takes readers on a breathtaking journey through a land ravaged by war, where gods and monsters battle alongside mortals in an unforgettable tale of power, betrayal, and redemption. After heroically...
    By R.F. Kuang
    Paperback
    $2200
    Elsewhere:
    $2499
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • Yellowface
    The Number One Global Sensation Foyle’s Fiction Book of the Year Amazon Book of the Year Shortlisted for Waterstones Book of the Year Fiction Book of the Year 2024 – British Book Awards ‘Addictive’ Grazia ‘Hugely entertaining’ Observer ‘Provocative’ Mail on Sunday THIS IS ONE HELL OF A STORY. IT’S JUST NOT HERS TO TELL. When failed writer June Hayward...
    By R.F. Kuang
    Paperback
    $2999
    Elsewhere:
    $3999
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • The Poppy War
    Winner of the Reddit Fantasy Award for Best Debut 2018 The best fantasy debut of 2018 – WIRED A brilliantly imaginative epic fantasy debut, inspired by the bloody history of China’s twentieth century and filled with treachery and magic. The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang is an unflinching tale of power, ambition, and survival, set in a richly detailed and...
    By R.F. Kuang
    Paperback
    $2200
    Elsewhere:
    $2499
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • The Dragon Republic
    The Dragon Republic by R.F. Kuang is a masterful continuation of the epic saga that began with 2018’s most celebrated fantasy debut, The Poppy War. Set in a richly detailed and meticulously crafted world, this searing sequel delves deeper into the tumultuous landscape of war, magic, and politics. After the devastating events of her past, Rin is a fugitive, haunted...
    By R.F. Kuang
    Paperback
    $2200
    Elsewhere:
    $2499
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • The Poppy War Boxset
    Dive into the immersive world of R.F. Kuang's critically acclaimed historical military fantasy trilogy with The Poppy War Boxset, which comprises the gripping novels The Poppy War, The Dragon Republic, and The Burning God. Inspired by the tumultuous history of China's twentieth century, these novels weave a narrative tapestry rich with treachery, magic, and exhilarating warfare. This comprehensive boxset comes...
    By R.F. Kuang
    Set
    $6499
    Elsewhere:
    $7299
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • Pre-order
    Signed Bookplate
    Shirl's Pick Shirl's Pick
    Taipei Story
    TAIPEI STORY is the electrifying new novel by bestselling literary phenomenon Rebecca F. Kuang, a profoundly moving coming-of-age story that explores first love, second language and final goodbyes – all set against the backdrop of one unforgettable summer in Taipei. Yale student Lily Chen arrives in Taipei hungry: for family, for culture, for connection. But her summer of discovery quickly...
    By R.F. Kuang
    Paperback
    $2999
    Elsewhere:
    $3699
    (2)
    Pre-order
    Out 15 Sep 2026
  • Signed Copy
    On Sale
    11% off
    Katabasis
    Katabasis is a formidable, timeless work, destined to be a modern classic. – OLIVIE BLAKE Katabasis is more than a novel to savour. This book is an experience. I envy those who get to read it for the first time. – REBECCA ROSS A witty, gory, harrowing ride. – LEIGH BARDUGO Only available in select territories. Katabasis, noun, Ancient Greek....
    By R.F. Kuang
    Hardback
    $4000
    Elsewhere:
    $5999
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • The Dragon Republic Collector’s Edition
    The searing follow-up to 2018’s most celebrated fantasy debut – The Poppy War. The Dragon Republic Collector’s Edition continues the gripping tale of Rin, who is on the run. Haunted by the atrocity she committed to save her people, she battles addiction to opium and is driven by the murderous commands of Phoenix, the vengeful god who has blessed her...
    By R.F. Kuang
    Hardback
    $4800
    Elsewhere:
    $5999
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • Taipei Story (Deluxe Limited Edition)
    Taipei Story
    This limited deluxe hardcover features gorgeous stenciled edges - available on the first printing only! From R.F. Kuang, the acclaimed #1 New York Times bestselling author of Katabasis and Yellowface, comes a wryly humorous and profoundly moving coming-of-age novel that grapples with grief, language, and culture shock--all set against the backdrop of an unforgettable summer in Taipei. College freshman Lily...
    By R.F. Kuang
    Hardback
    $6999
    Pre-order
    Out
  • Signed Copy
    Katabasis
    Katabasis is a formidable, timeless work, destined to be a modern classic — OLIVIE BLAKE Katabasis is more than a novel to savour. This book is an experience. I envy those who get to read it for the first time — REBECCA ROSS A witty, gory, harrowing ride — LEIGH BARDUGO Katabasis, noun, Ancient Greek: The story of a hero's...
    By R.F. Kuang
    Hardback
    $5000
    Elsewhere:
    $5500
    In Stock
    Ships Monday

More from Sci-Fi & Fantasy

View all
  • New Release
    Scion
    ‘Scion’ is an electrifying sci-fi thriller that follows a contract killer tasked with protecting a scientist from assassination, only to find himself in the crosshairs. My name’s Azure. I kill rich idiots for a living. All completely legal, of course, even if it does still make the old-fashioned crowd a bit uncomfortable. Once the ultra-wealthy realised they had a way...
    By James Islington
    Paperback
    $3199
    Elsewhere:
    $3800
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • Massif
    New Release
    Massif
    Caught me a mountain Rode it to the stars It's business as usual for Ship Leader Parnell Shi-Sawahla and the crew of the corvette Sassafras. Ride a Massif to a new system, fight the enemy, repeat. For more than two hundred years, humans have been hitching rides on these sentient, starfaring mountain ranges, colonising planets and exporting an on-again, off-again...
    By Garth Nix
    Paperback
    $3299
    Elsewhere:
    $3799
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • Project Hail Mary
    Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir, the SUNDAY TIMES and NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author of The Martian, offers a gripping new adventure in hard science fiction. With endorsement from notable figures such as Barack Obama and a slew of five-star reviews, this novel promises a thrilling and intellectually stimulating journey. Ryland Grace, a lone astronaut, finds himself on a...
    By Andy Weir
    Paperback
    $2399
    Elsewhere:
    $2400
    (5)
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • The Strength of the Few
    The highly anticipated follow-up to The Will of the Many—one of 2023's most lauded and bestselling fantasy novels. The Hierarchy still call me Vis Telimus. They still, as one, believe they know who I am. But with all that has happened—with what I fear is coming—I am not sure it matters anymore. I am no longer one. I won the...
    By James Islington
    Paperback
    $2899
    Elsewhere:
    $3800
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • Red Rising
    The first book in the incredible New York Times bestselling series Darrow is a Helldiver, toiling beneath the surface of Mars. As a member of the Red caste, he performs grueling labor in the belief that his sacrifice will enable future generations to one day inhabit the surface of the Red Planet. The Reds are humankind's lowest caste, living in...
    By Pierce Brown
    Paperback
    $2200
    Elsewhere:
    $2799
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • Crossroads of Ravens
    THE GLOBAL PHENOMENON RETURNS... Every legend has an origin - and Geralt of Rivia's begins here. In this brand-new chapter of Andrzej Sapkowski's Witcher series, follow Geralt in his earliest days as a Witcher, as he faces monsters and humans alike. Discover the untold stories and encounters that shaped the iconic character known today. Crossroads of Ravens brings readers into...
    By Andrzej Sapkowski
    Paperback
    $2899
    Elsewhere:
    $3799
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • Wind and Truth
    The long-awaited explosive climax to the first arc of the Number One New York Times bestselling Stormlight Archive. Wind and Truth by Brandon Sanderson sees Dalinar Kholin challenge the evil god Odium to a contest of champions with the future of Roshar on the line. The Knights Radiant have only ten days to prepare, and the sudden ascension of the...
    By Brandon Sanderson
    Paperback
    $3100
    Elsewhere:
    $3999
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • The Ministry of Time
    One of the 18 best novels of the year for the Sunday Times A book of the year for the New York Times, Guardian, Independent, Evening Standard, Spectator, Red, NPR, Vanity Fair, People, Slate, Advocate, Sydney Morning Herald, Globe and Mail, Den of Geek, Good Housekeeping, Goodreads, NetGalley and Smithsonian Magazine 'A sparkling delight' Observer 'Make room on your bookshelves...
    By Kaliane Bradley
    Paperback
    $2399
    Elsewhere:
    $2799
    (2)
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • Assassin’s Apprentice
    Assassin's Apprentice by Robin Hobb marks the beginning of an extraordinary adventure in the rich and immersive world of the Six Duchies. Set against the backdrop of a kingdom teetering on the brink of civil war, this gripping tale introduces readers to FitzChivalry Farseer, a royal bastard whose existence threatens the stability of the crown. When the crown prince's secret...
    By Robin Hobb
    Paperback
    $1900
    Elsewhere:
    $2299
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • I Who Have Never Known Men
    A haunting, heartbreaking tale of female friendship and intimacy that evokes the chilling atmospheres of The Handmaid's Tale and the desolate landscapes of The Road, I Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline Harpman is a story that lingers long after the last page is turned. This gripping narrative takes us deep underground, where thirty-nine women are held in isolation...
    By Jacqueline Harpman
    Paperback
    $2800
    Elsewhere:
    $3299
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • The Colour Illustrated Hobbit
    The Colour Illustrated Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien is a timeless classic that has enchanted readers for generations. This beloved tale follows Bilbo Baggins, a peace-loving hobbit from the quaint and picturesque Shire, who finds himself thrust into an epic journey far from the comforts of his cosy home. Charming and lively illustrations by Jemima Catlin breathe new life...
    By J. R. R. Tolkien
    Paperback
    $2700
    Elsewhere:
    $2999
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • Blood Over Bright Haven
    A riveting dark academia fantasy about the limits of truth and power, from the author of The Sword of Kaigen. The first woman ever admitted to a prestigious order of mages unravels a secret conspiracy that could change the practice of magic forever, in this standalone dark fantasy from the author of The Sword of Kaigen. For twenty years, Sciona...
    By M. L. Wang
    Paperback
    $3400
    Elsewhere:
    $3800
    In Stock
    Ships Monday

Why buy from us?

Book Hero is not a chain store or big box retailer. We're an independent 100% NZ-owned business on a mission to help more Kiwis rediscover a love of books and reading!

Service & Delivery

Service & Delivery

Our warehouse in Auckland holds over 100,000 books, toys, board games and puzzles in-stock so you're not waiting for your order to arrive from overseas.

Auckland Bookstore

Auckland Bookstore

We're primarily an online store, but for your convenience you can pick up your order for free from our bookstore, which is right next door to our warehouse in Hobsonville.

Our Gifting Service

Our Gifting Service

Books make wonderful thoughtful gifts and we're here to help with gift-wrapping and cards. We can even send your gift directly to your loved one.

Sci-Fi & Fantasy lists from the team

Explore our curated lists from our heroes to find your next read!

The Latest at Book Hero

View all