LET'S TACKLE the FEAR of MANUSCRIPT THEFT

What is the likelihood of you having your story idea, a chunk of your manuscript, or your whole book ripped off by some lowlife in your critique group or elsewhere?

I'll begin by saying that everything you write is considered copyrighted the moment it is written.

Now, let's number the BIG THREE fears:

#1 Your Story Idea:

Face it, ideas are not protected by copyright. They are up for grabs. But don't panic, it can happen - but not often. A critique member or writing friend (??) who knowingly steals your idea for a story is morally bankrupt. It is not illegal, but it sure is immoral in my book. Let everyone in the known writing world know of this person's moral lapse. GOTCHA!

#2 A Chunk of Your Manuscript

Aha, now this can happen more easily: especially if you write for Internet magazines and columns. Copying a juicy snippet of information from your Website or Blog is an easy thing. This kind of poaching is sometimes done by beginners, due to ignorance. Set them straight, ASAP. If they don't grovel fast and appropriately, and what they appropriated is important to you, bring out the big guns. If not, a good tongue-lashing + legal threats via e-mail can works wonders.

More importantly, this tactic can get the offending copies deleted fast.

#3 The Whole Book

This rarely happens. However, if it does happen to you, your copyright protection packs a punch. You are within your rights to throw a giant legal fit when some wanna-be-famous writer pilfers your prose in a major way - whether your book is already on bookstore shelves, or simply headed that way. Consult a literary lawyer, and if he agrees that you have a case, GO GET 'EM!

Don't allow a small possibility to stop you networking with other writers:
#1 - Nothing in this life is completely safe, or free from small amounts of doubt. As far as critique groups are concerned, when you join a group, take your time getting to know the members. Critique their manuscripts first, and then, when you feel comfortable, offer your own writing for critique. Like buying shoes, you might have to try on a few groups before you find the right fit.

#2 - Understand, that when you write for any Internet source, the chances of someone lifting a paragraph, or a page or two of your hard work, is very possible. Be vigilant. Stress at the end of every article, story, or column you submit, that all content is copyrighted, and permission must be asked before samples are used.

# 3 - If someone has the hide to steal or use multiple paragraphs or pages from your completed manuscript or published book, have a lawyer throw the book at them. This is rare, yet it can happen.

Summary:
These days, imagination and talent are not enough to get you published. It also takes a willingness to do lots of rewrites, long years learning the craft of writing for children, + networking at conferences, in online groups and elsewhere, to make contacts. A big dab of luck is also helpful. Being a member of a great critique group is one of the best ways to learn the writing ropes.

So don't panic, or allow scary stories about manuscript theft to stop you from taking the steps that will allow you to bloom as a writer. Nothing in this life is completely safe, or free from some degree of doubt.

I encourage you to forge ahead and, GO FOR IT, MATES!!

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