NEED ADVICE ON SSIGNING BOOK CONTRACT!!!
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From: Barb Rees
Date: Saturday, November 25, 2006, 6:22 PM
Subject: Need advice on ssigning book contract!!!
Reply to: 257355
ID: 254873

HI Mary,
You are asking a question that is one that as an author I've 
wondered about too. I am in the process of self-publishing my second 
book(book launch Dec.16), with its steep learning curve, but it's 
worth every moment.

When I saw your query about contracts, I Googled it and found tons 
of information. I know there is a very good book by 2 BC women on 
self-publishing but can't remember what its called....Anyone know? 

What I found was a site called: www.fonerbooks.com and while its 
American, the principles may apply.

But before you go signing away your world rights, I'd be getting 
some legal advice. It would be worth the money to be safeguarded.
Whether publishing a book commercially,print on demand or self-
publishing, be aware that it's like any other form of business....do 
your homework!Not everyone is equal as a business. The level of 
ethics or responsibly handling your project can range from the best 
to the horror stories.

The best referance is from those you know personally who have used 
this company.

For this book, I did all the preparation other than the cover which 
was done professionally, then its being printed by Friesens in 
Manitoba. They are outstanding in customer care and patience...and 
they needed lots of it with me who writes well, but doesn't 
understand computer programs. My book "RV Canada On A Dime And A 
Dream" will be born Dec.16. Its been a long 3 year pregnancy. Now I 
just want this baby to be born and I know Mary you will be feeling 
the same way.

If you want to talk to me privately, email me: dreambg1@shaw.ca . 
I'd love to be part of your dream coming true.

Dream Big!!
Barb

----- On 11/25/06, Mary Trainor-Brigham wrote ------

I know we've had threads here before that seemed to endorse self-
publishing. I've given that a lot of thought.

Am writing a book that has to do with deepening the experience of 
Cinema, both for those making it and for those viewing it. 

There is only one publisher I even considered, the best in my niche 
group, and Lo & behold ~ He's sent me a contract! Have located a 
semi-
local literary atty, which I can ill afford, and want to bone up on 
the lingo so he won't have to charge me for his re-inventing the 
wheel.

Legalese is impossible for me ~ like crunching down on a shell or 
stone in your soup.

Any advise on how to get a good contract, any warnings on what NOT 
to 
sign on for? He wants world rights, but does have great overseas 
contacts, and he writes that publisher has final say on the title, 
which to me is like having the mid-wife name your baby!!!...Also, 
the 
contract seems open-ended, is that normal???

Any feed-back greatly appreciated. Mahalo!

------