From: Norma Jean <nsawicki>
Date: Sun, 28 Mar 2004 13:27:19 -0500

Arthur is right...I took the discussion about the book off track and for that I apologize. Unfortunately, I am unable to open Arthur's attachment but as a former publisher of an earlier generation, I occasionally corresponded with Mildred Batchelder, and know how strongly she felt about translations. She was honored to have the award in her name, and agreed with ALSC that by giving it to the publisher, it might encourage publishers to publish more in this area. However, if translations are published but not read by kids, what is the point? For those committed to excellent books that are translated, it behooves them to convince those librarians/teachers who are not like minded of their value/importance. It is clear from responses that some librarians/teachers are aware of the difficulties of introducing translations to kids but instead or writing them off, work hard to introduce them and succeed by being creative, thoughtful, etc. It has occurred to me that this could make a practical and interesting workshop at ALA...a book talk by librarians who have succeeded for librarians/ teachers who are interested but may not know how to go about it.

As far as advertising is concerned, I was always...and still am, a purist. Just as we never used a quote from a review publication in an ad that misrepresented the overall review, we were "stuck" in how to advertise the Batchelder Award. Because we were "stuck," I am well aware of ads by publishers and have noticed the intent is often ignored or misconstrued in a way that is not harmful but is still incorrect. Since I do a fair amount of teaching, I would bet hands down that most young people in publishing do not know the award goes to the publisher. Whether or not any of this matters, is a decision that rests with ALSC; not with publishers. On that note, I will say no more. Norma Jean
Received on Sun 28 Mar 2004 12:27:19 PM CST