Option clause
This clause means that before you can offer your next book to another publisher, you must first give your current publisher the chance to decide if they wa
In plain English
This clause means that before you can offer your next book to another publisher, you must first give your current publisher the chance to decide if they want to publish it. They have a set period of time to make this decision.
What it means in practice
In practice, this clause gives your current publisher a significant advantage in acquiring your future work. It means you can't shop your next book around to other publishers without giving your current publisher the first opportunity to make an offer. This can limit your ability to negotiate with other publishers and potentially affect your future advances and royalties.
What's standard
It is standard for a publisher to request a right of first refusal, but the duration of their decision period and the scope of works covered can vary.
Red flags
A decision period longer than 30 days
A clause that includes vague or broad language about the types of works covered
A clause that does not specify a time limit for the publisher's decision
What to ask for instead
Ask for a shorter decision period, such as 15-20 days, to ensure you can move quickly if the publisher declines. Also, ensure the clause specifies that only book-length works are included, and not shorter articles or essays.
This is information, not legal advice. Contracts turn on their exact wording and your circumstances — before you sign, have a publishing lawyer or a body like the Society of Authors or the Authors Guild review the actual document.