Saturday, October 31, 2009

Writing a non-fiction book?

I will be writing a book about my brothers illness and subsequent death from brain cancer. In my book, I will be using real names for my family (with their permission) and for the ex-sister in law and the nephews (no love lost there) and for others, like Doctors , etc, I will be using made up names. Because of the obvious connection between my brother (real name will be used) and the wife, am I still allowed to do this without her and their permission?
Answer:
It doesn't matter if you use HER name or not; she doesn't have to give permission. You can write (and publish) any truthful thing about any person that you want. You don't need her permission. Truth is the ultimate defense.

If she wants to sue you for libel, she'll have to prove that what you said isn't true, AND that you published it maliciously. You can use his name, her name and anyone else that you want, as long as what you say is the truth.

Your descriptions about her motivations for isolating your brother from his family should be expressed as 'feelings', not fact, though.
You should always ask. It's proper etiquette.
Ok that sounds interesting.
It would be ethical to seek her permission.
I think you should get their permission since it will be shared with the public. Also, if you are writing a non-fiction book, shouldn't facts be a key thing in the book? Right?
My thoughts are with you and your brother. Thanks for the question?
Depends...
1)''cool, my name's in a book!
2)"I wouldn't be caught dead reading that!''
3)"That stupid BEEP put my name in her book, I'll sue her!''

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