Rights 101
Everyone talks about them, but few really understand. What are the “rights” you sell to a magazine or a publisher? First, let’s review the basics. You already should know that the author of an...
View ArticleQ&A About Film Rights
Note: With the tough publishing market, many mystery novelists are turning their talents to film and video. Here are some of the common questions I receive: Q: I have a great idea for a...
View ArticleQ&A: Rights
Q. What rights should I grant to my publisher? The standard book publishing agreement “Grant of Rights” clause commonly takes all “print” rights plus certain specified “subsidiary” rights – foreign,...
View ArticleMerchandising Rights
Merchandising rights are a frequently misunderstood (and often overlooked) part of publishing agreements. They are the right to market, sell, and license physical and tangible articles related to your...
View ArticleQ&A: E-book Rights
Q. How do I get e-book rights for my out of print books published before the days of e-books? A. As always, the answer exists in your publishing agreement. You must closely examine two sections:...
View ArticleQ&A: Foreign Rights
Q. I’m self-publishing my out-of-print novel, in both digital and print. Please tell me about “foreign rights” and “foreign licensing deals.” A. Foreign rights are typically part of the “subsidiary...
View ArticleQ&A: Reversion of Rights
Q. I wrote my (ex) publisher asking for reversion of my rights for my out of print books. The time period specified in the contract has passed and I still haven’t heard back. I sent an email...
View ArticleAuthors Guild Announces Fair Contract Initiative
On May 28, 2015, at Book Expo America in New York City, the Author’s Guild announced an ambitious new program — a must-read for every writer — named The “Fair Contract Initiative.” This initiative is a...
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