book and copyright issues...

building

we are now looking at approaching some publishers as we have our book structure in place. as I am worried about whether they take the idea and get others or tells other about it before it is fully written what would be people's advice on this front. i have also heard that emailing a copy to oneself may without opening the email is proof of copyright. is this the case. any tips appreciated. thanks in advance.

Hermia

Go to the library and ask for the latest 'Writer's and Artist's Yearbook'. It has a section on copyright as well as loads of other usual information about publishing a book.

saver_sam

building wrote:

i have also heard that emailing a copy to oneself may without opening the email is proof of copyright. is this the case.

I've read somewhere that if you post it to yourself through the royal mail, and perhaps to others also that you trust, and leave the packages unopened, then this is useful for proving copyright.

Fullup

I've not heard about the e-mailing yourself a copy but as above I have heard that if you post a copy to yourself via royal mail and do not open it the royal mail date stamp will help you with proof of copyright if you need it in the future.

HTH

Hermia

Re: the posting it to yourself business. I heard that you wouldn't really want to rely on this in a court of law and if you are serious about copyrighting something you should get proper advice. I would definitely start with the Writer's and Artist's Yearbook. I'm a Librarian and am forever handing it out to wannabe writers!