About Us

Where Translation Meets Craft, and Craft Becomes Story

Every message begins with structure and meaning—the quiet framework that holds an idea together.

This is where founder Thomas Shou began. For more than two decades, he has meticulously managed complex high-tech Asian ↔ English localization projects of all kinds with exacting precision, handling legal agreements, technical manuals, and corporate communications where accuracy was not optional, but essential.

In the work, something deeper emerged. He wasn’t simply transferring words; he was carrying meaning—intact, deliberate, and alive. As the craft sharpened, precision gave way to narrative possibilities. The translator evolved into a narrative designer, and in time, a narrative architect.

Today, Words Over Seas lives at this intersection: the discipline of a seasoned Asian language expert/translator combined with the creative depth of a veteran published author. Whether you bring us a contract, a technical paper, conference, or a manuscript, your message is treated with the same level of care and intention—preserved, refined, and delivered with clarity and purpose.

 

3 Reasons to Work with Us

Founder-Led Precision

You work directly with a principal who has spent over 20 years mastering translation, narrative craft, and cross-cultural meaning. No handoffs. No diluted oversight. Just disciplined expertise applied to every line of your project.

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Elite Teams Curated for Your Needs

Capacity when you need it, specialization when it matters most. Our translators, interpreters, editors, and creative writers are chosen for domain fluency, and professionalism—with a single lead overseeing each project for consistency and quality.

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Human Partnerships

We don’t move text through a system—we work closely with you each step of the way to shape meaning. You receive thoughtful judgment, clear communication, and a collaborative process built around your goals and your unique voice.

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About Our Founder

Thomas Shou is a professional Chinese translator, seasoned Asian translation consultant, published author, and creative writing and narrative consultant with over 20 years of experience working across legal, technical, academic, and creative domains. He has led teams of specialist linguists, authored and edited published works, and built a practice centered on precision, cross-cultural nuance, and narrative clarity. His work spans Fortune-level enterprises, global agencies, and individual creators seeking depth and meaning in their communication.

  • US-born native with BA in English Literature & MA in Modern Chinese Literature

  • 20+ years expertise in managing complex Asian translation projects

  • Published author and editorial consultant

  • Led expert global/Asian teams across legal, technical, and academic domains

  • Trusted by Fortune 1000 global organizations, law firms, and creative professionals

Thomas works across industries where language carries both risk and consequence.
See the industries he supports →

 

Clients