Term and reversion clause
This clause defines how long the publisher has the rights to your book and the conditions under which those rights will return to you. Typically, the publi
In plain English
This clause defines how long the publisher has the rights to your book and the conditions under which those rights will return to you. Typically, the publisher holds the rights for the duration of the copyright, but if the book is no longer available for sale and the publisher doesn't reprint it after you request, the rights revert to you.
What it means in practice
In practice, this means that once your book is published, the publisher owns the rights to it for as long as the copyright lasts, unless you take action. If your book goes out of print and the publisher doesn't reprint it within a year after you ask them to, you can get your rights back. This allows you to potentially publish the book elsewhere or explore other options.
What's standard
It is standard for the term to last for the duration of the copyright, with a reversion clause that triggers if the book is out of print and the publisher doesn't reprint it within a specified period after your request.
Red flags
A clause that defines "out of print" in a way that makes it difficult for the author to claim rights reversion.
A clause that requires the author to wait an unreasonably long time after requesting reversion before the rights revert.
A clause that doesn't specify a timeframe for the publisher to respond to a reversion request.
What to ask for instead
Ask for a clear definition of "out of print" that includes specific sales thresholds or availability criteria. Also, ensure there is a timeframe (e.g., 12 months) for the publisher to reprint the book after your request, after which the rights will automatically revert to you.
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.