Know Your Copyrights!

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As writers we know we risk our work being copied or plagiarized every time we put something out there for the world to see. For the most part it shouldn’t be a concern. Writers should just write. Making a statement or sharing an idea is what writers long to do. Self expression should not be inhibited because someone doesn’t have enough talent or creativity within themselves to produce their own project. Having said that, your work is protected.

Copyright is a form of protection provided by the laws of the United States (title 17, U.S. Code) to the authors of “original works authorship,” including literary, dramatic, musical, artistic, and certain intellectual works. This protection is available to both published and unpublished works.

Just in case you were wondering what isn’t protected by copyright:

• Choregraphics not recorded
• Improvisational speeches or performances not written or recorded
• Ideas
• Works that come from common property and contain no original authorship

Want to learn more? Visit www.copyright.gov

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Best Links for Writers and Publishers (September, 9) « 40kBooks

 

 

Best Links for Writers and Publishers (September, 9) « 40kBooks.

I came across this wonderful site that has loads of information for authors. Especially those who are wanting to self publish. Check it out.

Do Writers Need An Agent?

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Do we as writers, especially new writers, really need an agent right away?

I want an agent when I really have something to present that’s polished and well written. I feel that I would be spinning my wheels trying to get an agents attention if my project isn’t worthy. Not only that, I would have to share any profits. Is that me being cheap? Not sure about it, I haven’t had that experience yet.

According to an article from The Writer, Stephen King had this to say about agents in 1986:

An agent? Forget it. For now

Agents get 10% of monies earned by their clients. 10% of nothing is nothing. Agents also have to pay the rent. Beginning writers do not contribute to that or any other necessity of life. Flog your stories around yourself. If you’ve done a novel, send around query letters to publishers, one by one, and follow up with sample chapters and/or the manuscript complete. And remember Stephen King’s First Rule of Writers and Agents, learned by bitter personal experience: You don’t need one until you’re making enough for someone to steal … and if you’re making that much, you’ll be able to take your pick of good agents.

That was quite a while ago and so much has changed since then. I feel he has a valid point, new writers should wait and shop around with publishers first. None of us would be any worse for the ware.

Will you be shopping for an Agent first?

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Revise and Rewrite – Are We Gluttons for Punishment?

As writers we know that revising our projects is crucial in regards to getting our work look at by an agent or publishing company. I know for a fact I am a glutton for punishment when it comes to rewriting. It’s natural and normal for a writer to be this way. We want our stories to be perfectly polished. We want someone to want to read our story and be able to enjoy it without stumbling over the type-o’s and unclear scenes.

Speaking of stumbling, I came across a really fun blog where Assistant Agent, Natalie Fischer is offering some great advice on how to revise your manuscript successfully. Her wonderful blog is Adventures in Agentland. Stop by and visit and get some great advice.

Are you a glutton for punishment?

Happy Reading & Writing!

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Blog Traffic – How To Bring It!

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This month a lot of us have been participating in the WordCount Blogathon 2011. I have had a blast and this has really forced me to post every day and it’s been a great experience. Blogathons are a great way to build ready traffic.

I recently came across Novel Publishing Group. It’s a great site and resource for writers. There you will find a list of ways to bring more visitors and followers to your blog or website. You can also find some very interesting writers resources and links. Check it out!

11 Ways To Maximize Your Blog Traffic In 2011.

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