Interview Vatican Radio   6-21-08

1- Good morning, Mrs. Schank! At last you have translated into English, the book “Live to Tell” by Fr. Zef Pllumi. This should be your first contact with Albanian literature, history and language. How did you happen to get a hold of this book and decide you wanted to translate it?

I saw that it was a very important book in history. It is a true story that should be read by people across the globe. The opportunity presented itself to me to work with the well-known translator Petro Zheji, who was living in the US at the time. I was familiar with the language and able to make my first translation from Albanian into English. Now Americans and English readers alike can know the story.

2. In your opinion, what is it that is unique about this book that may attract a lot of attention from English speaking readers?

Currently many people are interested to know more about the Albanian people, like I was, especially after the war in Yugoslavia. And secondly it is the firsthand story of a hero, the priest, Fr. Zef Pllumi; who was held prisoner after World War II in his homeland of Albania. This book is a symbol for him, he tells the story of his life and reveals the truth of a brutal dictator. 

3. You haven’t spent much time in Albania, how is it possible that you are so interested in Albanian literature and history? It seems that your work in translation will continue, will it not?

I am very interested in culture, folklore, and literature. I have been to Albania and will go back soon, especially when I continue with my translation of Volumes 2 and 3 of Fr. Zef Pllumi’s “Live to Tell” books.

4. We thank you very much for this interview, and now can you tell us where we might be able to buy copies of the new translation of Fr. Pllumi’s book.

Yes, the book can be found on the internet at Amazon.com, Iuniverse.com, and other American stores like Barnes and Noble.

Good luck to you, and with your work.

Thank you very much, it was an honor.

Vatican Radio, Arben Ndreca interviewer.