Re: writing solicitation

**b*@mchsi.com (Cathy Wilkinson Barash)**

Hi Dan,

Yes, and I just love it when I get request to Kathie Wilkersen Barrish (or any of the other ways you can misspell my name). 

First of all, it isn't totally clear that they want it free of charge (free of copyright), so the first thing I'd determine is if indeed you get paidÑstate a flat fee of $500 and a separate fee for photos. I've done this sort of thing for freelance editors, but never without pay. I would also ask how you would be credited, ask for a written contract (or write one yourself) and get more specifics about the book (and be able to approve edits).  This person may be a freelance editor, but is not doing tit for free, so why should you??

My gut says, especially in this economy, don't do it.

Good luck!!

Best,
Cathy

--
Cathy Wilkinson Barash
Author, photographer, speaker, editor 
753 17th Street
Des Moines, IA 50314
515-282-5172
fax 515-243-5353
bloominggourmet@mchsi.com

-- 
From: "Dan Clost" <dan.clost@sympatico.ca>
To: "Garden Writers -- GWL -- The Garden Writers Forum" 
<gardenwriters@lists.ibiblio.org>
Sent: Sunday, February 24, 2008 8:32 AM
Subject: [GWL] writing solicitation

>
> Folks,
> I'm looking for some garden writer advice here. A member of the GWA sent 
> me
> a request to write something for a book. I'll paste the post here with 
> names
> removed so there should be no id possible. My questions follow.
>
> Hi Daniel,
> I am a freelance garden writer and also work as the Senior Staff Writer 
> and
> Contributing Editor of ___________Magazine.
> I am in the process of compiling an exciting book on gardening and would
> very much like your input. The book will be a compilation of the wisdom of 
> a
> great many gardening experts like you!
> Each expert will provide a short narrative (500-1500 words), with or 
> without
> supporting images, that outlines one of their favorite gardening tips or
> techniques along with an "about the author" statement that can include
> contact information and/or other business affiliations.
> My publisher has asked that each author include the following statement 
> with
> their submission. "I (Name) understand that this article may be edited and
> published by (insert name of person who sent me this e-mail) and I am
> providing it free of copyright.
> I hope you will consider providing a piece for this project and look 
> forward
> to hearing from you.
>
> So GWL compadres,