Publication Agreement Language

Definition:

• A payment against future royalties
• Typically paid in installments

Consider the following:

• Does it outline the installment plan for payment?
• Does it include provisions for items such as supplementary materials?

Definition:

• Payments made to the author based on book sales
• Based on either the retail price or the net price

Consider the following:

• Does it outline different royalty rates for different book editions?
• Does it outline payment for the use of subsidiary/secondary rights?
• Does it outline a bonus payment structure for professional achievements (such as being featured on the NYT Bestsellers list)?

  Definition:

• Author payment based on a negotiated percentage of the net revenue the publisher receives from the publication
• Typically offered by smaller, independent publishers

   Definition:

• A single, flat fee to purchase your manuscript outright
• Uncommon in publishing

Sources:

"Understanding and Negotiating Book Publication Contracts" by Author's Alliance is licensed under CC BY 4.0

Evans-Walls, T. M. (2005). Literary law guide for authors : copyright, trademark, and contracts in plain language (2nd ed.). FYOS Entertainment.

Legal Disclaimer

The information provided throughout this guide does not constitute legal advice, and should not be interpreted as such. While your resident librarians would be happy to try and assist with any questions, we are unable to provide legal advice and may need to refer you to a lawyer or agent.