From: Norma Jean <nsawicki>
Date: Sat, 27 Mar 2004 00:08:45 -0500

I have no idea about how publishers of children's books would feel about Ginny's suggestion which I think is terrific. I would, however, feel uncomfortable if the award were given to the translator. While it is true a translator may or may not be skilled, and can make a significant contribution to the book, without the writer, the book would not exist. While not the same, it would be similar to an editor who may do a tremendous amount of editorial work with a writer whose book is critical acclaimed. No matter the amount of work, the story/book belongs to the writer; without the writer, there is nothing. And too, unless one speaks the language, one cannot compare the translation to the original and offer an accurate assessment of the translation. Many years ago, I was offered the opportunity to publish a translation of German novel from a British publisher who had acquired English language rights and in doing so, made arrangements for the novel to be dramatically cut for the English speaking market ( with the permission of the author and German publisher). While the British publisher sold the book to a U.S. publisher who shared in the cost of the translation, I doubt that anyone other than the publishers who had an opportunity to publish the book knew it was substantially different from the original. Since it is a book whose reception I followed, the substantial cutting, etc., was so well done that the book was well reviewed. In my opinion, the major cutting/editing made it a novel that was translated and adapted or translated and edited. Sometimes a U.S. publisher acquires a foreign book from a British publisher who arranges for the translation, etc., and the editor does little other than share in the cost and publish it which is not to say American publishers do not acquire books from originating publishers; they do but the acquisition happens either way. The contribution a translator makes to the original is considered so insignificant to some originating publishers, and writers that they are not willing to allow the translator to share in even a tiny portion of the royalty. American publishers often argue with the originating publisher about this point but by the same token, not all American writers/publishers are prepared to give up a small portion of the royalty when their book is translated. All of which is to say, the book always belongs to the writer.

As far as Ruth's remarks about "foreign" books is concerned, I wholeheartedly agree with her but at the same time she may be more optimistic about the overall citizenry being interested in cultures/customs that are dramatically different from our own. Many years ago, I asked someone if she and her husband were interested in going to Europe on vacation. She said, "no, what is in Europe that is not here?" My jaw dropped but that thinking is as much a part of this culture as those who believe otherwise. On that depressing note, I am going to bed and put my head under the covers. Norma Jean
Received on Fri 26 Mar 2004 11:08:45 PM CST