An alleged translation error in Omid Scobie’s new book has raised eyebrows among commentators, casting doubt on the accuracy of the Dutch version.
The book, which discusses the experiences of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, apparently included the names of two royals who expressed concerns about the skin color of their son, Archie.
However, experts have questioned how such a mistake could occur during the translation process.
Phil Dampier, a veteran royal reporter, finds it hard to believe that this error was solely due to a translation problem.
He suggests that it might have been a publicity stunt to boost book sales.
Michael Cole, another expert, shares this speculation.
Scobie himself released a statement acknowledging the translation error in the Dutch edition and expressing his satisfaction with the correction.
However, the Netherlands publisher, Zander Uitgevers, referred to a general error in the Dutch version without specifically addressing the translation issue.
This discrepancy suggests a difference in opinion regarding what actually transpired.
The explanation of a translation error has left some commentators unconvinced.
Dampier questions how two names could be mistranslated, deeming the explanation nonsensical.
He also casts doubt on Scobie’s credibility, stating that he has not always been truthful in the past and is seen as Meghan’s ally.
Dampier further asserts that this controversy may be a calculated move by Scobie to generate more attention for his book, at the expense of the royal family.
Recent findings on Tumblr indicate that Scobie was responsible for outsourcing the translation of his book, rather than the publisher.
Last year, Scobie announced that he had contracted Endgame for World English Rights, which meant that he would handle translations into languages other than English.
This revelation contradicts the assumption that the publisher was solely responsible for the translation error.
Scobie sold World English Rights for his upcoming book, set to be released in 2023, to Carrie Thornton at Daystreet, with Albert Lee at United Talent Agency brokering the deal.
Daystreet, an imprint of HarperCollins, also published “Finding Freedom” and holds the North American publishing rights.
The distinction between World English Rights and World Rights is crucial.
The former refers to English language rights split between the US and UK Commonwealth, with the author handling foreign translations.
In contrast, the latter includes translation rights, which the publisher seeks out and subtracts from the author’s advance.
Scobie’s decision to sell only English rights suggests that he retained control over foreign translations.
Consequently, it was Scobie’s agent who provided the manuscript to Zander, not Harlequin, the publisher.
Unfortunately for Scobie, his book has received negative reviews from major critics, even in the US, leading to its rapid decline in popularity.
In conclusion, the alleged translation error in Omid Scobie’s book has sparked controversy and speculation.
While Scobie maintains that it was a translation mistake, some commentators remain skeptical.
The revelation that Scobie was responsible for outsourcing the translation further complicates the situation.
As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how this incident will impact Scobie’s reputation and the reception of his book.