Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Night Shade Books’ probation has been lifted

Night Shade Books’ probation has been lifted

That link goes to an article on the Science Fiction Writers of America website where it says the committee which placed Night Shade Books "on probation" for violating contracts with authors has now lifted the probation because all the issues have been properly dealt with.

This is a great example of why authors need to belong to an organization of authors that works diligently to protect rights. All authors, even those who do not belong to this or that organization, benefit from this behind the scenes work.

The SFWA workers are unpaid volunteers for the most part, though outside accountants and lawyers are often hired in these cases.

This kind of work never makes the headlines, but it is responsible for bringing good product to readers. If a writer doesn't get paid, she can't write the next book. It's a business, and publishers have to treat us as business runners.

Jacqueline Lichtenberg

http://jacquelinelichtenberg.com