In a message dated 6/19/03 9:44:35 AM Eastern Daylight Time, [log in to unmask]
writes:

> Please keep in mind that Kathleen did NOT sell her book to MJ.  Harvard
> Press, the publisher did.  Once a publisher has a book, they *own* it, and
> the
> author has no more rights over it.  That is why if you want to quote a book
> or
> copy an article (in the U.S, anyway), you have to get permission from the
> PUBLISHER, not the author.  As I said in an earlier post, we've all learned
> a lesson
> about what you put in a contract with a publishing company when you write a
> book.
>

The publisher "owns" it only IF the publisher vs. the author holds the
copyright. Generally, an author holds copyright but that is not always the case as
per Mothering Multiples and Keys to Parenting Multiples. However, an author may
add to the (publisher-generated) contract that such sales to outside sources
may not occur without her/his OK. Of course, the publisher may refuse and then
the author has to decide what to do, but I've done with two such contracts
without my additions being questioned -- and with all copies being initialed by
both parties. It's really important to review a contract that belongs to you
with that fine-tooth comb and question and revise if need be without totally
depending on an attorney to do so for one, which I think is what trips many
authors. Most never think to question much about the contract -- except maybe the
royalty! Because the publisher generates the contract, one can figure it will
be written to "fit" the publisher's best interests, but that doesn't mean an
author has to accept it as presented.

In addition to book contracts, my speaker/presenter contract includes
language re: my stance toward the WHO Code and the fact that I will not accept any
funding that comes from ABM and related corps. for any of my expenses and that
the syllabus or program must include that info. So conference sponsors know
from the get-go where I stand. (It also includes language re: expectation that
babes in arms may be there with mothers.) Although I've been told this has
caused hardship for a couple of organizations that had me speak, all have managed
to find alternative sources of funding for my presentations and reimbursable
expenses.

I once was asked to speak at a local toy franchise chain store about
expecting multiples (a brief freebie for book promo). Although not directly related to
breastfeeding, I had a conniption and stopped a ABM-related-equipment raffle
that they held in conjunction with my presentation without letting me know in
advance what they were planning to do. The manager had a counter-conniption,
but I "won" that one. Of course, I haven't been invited back...

One can do what one considers necessary or important -- and that may vary for
different persons.

BTW, personally, I hope all will hold their letters and protests, etc.
regarding WE as ILCA. Although we are ILCA, we elected our Board to act on our
behalf and in our best interests. That's what they're for and they are VERY aware
of the awesome responsibility they hold in that regard. Please, first give them
a chance to act and do what we elected them to do.

Karen

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