optioning a book

J

jasonw

Member
I have looked around and can't find exactly the right answer for this. Who do you talk to to buy the rights to a particular book or find if those rights have already been obtained? The story I want is a big one, but not out of the realm of possibility, I just don't know where to start.

Thank you!
 
First thing to attempt would be contacting the publisher. However, if you know the author or they have a web presence, they sometimes list their agent - contact them to find out if it's already been optioned.
Regardless, unless you have a wad of cash lying around or you want to place a second mortgage on your house, you may be out of luck.
I've spoken to many a published mystery writers and heard the same thing over and over - they're always optioned at publication and the worst thing to happen is the project gets green-lit.
Why? Because it means the option money on that property dries up.
Optioning is very difficult. However, if you find a short story you like, they are more readily available. An acquaintance of mine contacted an author and got the rights - never did anything with it, the putz.
Good luck.
C.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top