Noemi writes…

Hi Michelle,
When I was younger I have started to read the Chronicles of Ancient Darkness in Hungarian. I really liked it, my sister and my mother did so, but as it turned out, we only have the first two books translated. I didn't speak any English at the time, so I had to give up on reading it. I completely forgot that the sequel even existed, but a few days ago somehow I remembered the story.
It would be really nice to have the rest of the books of the sequel translated as well, because, I think, Hungarian children would also love it.
I'd even volunteer to make a fan-made translation (though I don't have the texts yet, but I guess I can buy them online in English).
Do you think there could be a legal way for me to be able to translate the books and share them with others? I am a university student, so I don't have a degree in translation or in English yet, but I already have experience in literary translation.
All the best,
Noémi

Michelle Replies…

Dear Noemi, Many thanks for your message, and it’s great to know that you, your mother and sister enjoyed the first two books in the series so much. It’s a lovely idea to do a Hungarian translation of the later books, but I’m afraid that as my publishers own the rights, there isn’t a legal way for you to do this; and I don’t think the Hungarian publishers intend to do so themselves (although you could always ask them, if you like.)  I’m sorry about this, as it’s a great idea.  And I want to thank you, too, for taking the trouble to check first.  I have to say, though, that your English is so brilliant that maybe you’ll now be able to enjoy the later books in English – should you wish to, of course.  Thanks again for getting in touch, and I wish you the best of luck with your university studies.  May the guardian run with you!   Michelle