Legal Questions
8 Ways to Defend Yourself from Writing Coach Scams
Industry experts and legitimate writing coaches provide advice on how to spot writing coach scams and shield yourself accordingly.
Successful Writing Collaborations: 3 Questions Co-Authors & Ghostwriters Need to Ask
The key to successful collaborative writing, from an equal co-authorship to a ghostwritten autobiography, is a good contract that is clear about who has what roles, how rights and burdens are shared, and how to unwind the project if things implode. Here are the key terms your collaboration agreement should cover.
Do You Really Need Life Rights?
Doug Richardson, writer of Die Hard 2, Bad Boys and Hostage, shares advice on whether you need to get the life rights before you start that screenplay.
Is It OK to Write a Fictional Story About a Historical Character?
Is it OK to write a fictional story about a historical character like Paul Revere or John Hancock? Brian A. Klems has the answer.
Can You Use Someone Else's Character in Your Book?
With the popularity of retellings, it can be a bit confusing as to what characters you can incorporate into your work and what ones you cant. Here, Brian A. Klems clarifies.
What Are First Serial Rights (or FNASR)?
What are first serial rights (or FNASR)? And what do they mean for writers? If a writer sells first rights, can they still resell to other venues and/or collect in a book form? Get the answers here.
Can You Copyright a Pseudonym?
Do you need to get a copyright for a pseudonym, or will a copyright for the book under a chosen pen name be sufficient? Brian A. Klems has an answer.
Can I Use Song Lyrics in my Manuscript?
You've probably seen authors include song lyrics in their books. Are they allowed to do that if it's limited passage? Do they have to ask permission? Get the answers here.
Why Do Authors Use Pseudonyms?
Why do authors use pseudonyms? Editor Brian A. Klems shares why some authors find it preferable to use a pen name for their byline when getting published.