PHILIPSBURG, Sint Maarten – Beyond Kultura Events Foundation has taken an important first step toward publication of a new Caribbean-based reader for English speakers: the translation into English of a 210-page sequel to Zonnesproetjes-Tropisch Nestje (Freckle Bunch/Tropical Shelter) Written by local author Loekie Morales, the English sequel is written for readers age seven and up.
While the Dutch version was sponsored by Morales and BKE, the English translation and proofreading costs were sponsored by Prins Bernhard Cultural Fund Caribbean. Its aim is to encourage English speakers to read Caribbean-based stories to enhance their reading skills.
PBCF supported the translation of Zonnesproetjes to Freckle Bunch by Barbara van de Woude and the translation of Tropisch Nestje to Tropical Shelter by Riet-Sint Straatman. In addition, the Fund supported the proofreading of both books by native English speaker Marianne Tefft.
For the writing of the special two-in-one sequel of 40 short stories, Morales recalls her childhood in Curaçao, where she was raised in a family with lots of children. After the death of her young mother, Morales and her siblings were sent to local boarding homes, where their lives changed substantially.
With completion of the sequel’s translation, BKE is seeking funds from local entities to support the printing of Freckle Bunch/Tropical Shelter for Windward Islands kids.
PHOTO ATTACHED: Translators and proofreader Barbara van der Woude and Riet Sint with BKE president and author Loekie Morales (center).
