The Latest Posts

• Copyright Protection and AI-Generated Work: Can You Copyright AI-Assisted Writing? April 12, 2026
  Writers: you can still copyright your novel if you used AI—but only the human-authored portions are protectable. Here’s a clear, practical breakdown of what counts, what doesn’t, and how to file without creating problems later. The post Copyright Protection and AI-Generated Work: Can You Copyright AI-Assisted Writing? appeared first on Sidebar Saturdays.
  Matt Knight
• When AI Crosses the Line: What SHY GIRL Means for Writers March 28, 2026
  In a move that’s sending ripples through the publishing industry, Hachette Book Group recently cancelled the U.S. and U.K. publication of Shy Girl by Mia Ballard after evidence surfaced that the manuscript was heavily generated using artificial […] The post When AI Crosses the Line: What SHY GIRL Means for Writers appeared first on Sidebar Saturdays.
  Matt Knight
• How to Negotiate a Publishing Contract Without Killing the Deal March 7, 2026
  Most authors worry that negotiation will sink their book deal. In reality, the clauses you don’t question are the ones that follow you for years. Here's a practical guide on how to negotiate a publishing contract without burning bridges. The post How to Negotiate a Publishing Contract Without Killing the Deal appeared first on Sidebar […]
  Matt Knight
• Small Press Publishing Contract Checklist: What Authors Should Review Before Signing February 28, 2026
  For many writers, an offer from a small press feels like validation wrapped in a PDF. The language is friendlier than a Big Five contract. The editor seems accessible. The terms look “standard.” It’s tempting […] The post Small Press Publishing Contract Checklist: What Authors Should Review Before Signing appeared first on Sidebar Saturdays.
  Matt Knight
• What Publishing Contracts Won’t Tell You (Especially Small Press Contracts) January 31, 2026
  Sidebar Saturdays is back. Version 2.0. Same author. Slightly more opinionated. I took a break from the blog to finish writing a book. The blog went quiet, but publishing law—and the publishing industry—most definitely did […] The post What Publishing Contracts Won’t Tell You (Especially Small Press Contracts) appeared first on Sidebar Saturdays.
  Matt Knight
• Crafting The Perfect Copyright Page May 4, 2024
  As an author, pouring your heart and soul into a manuscript is just the beginning of your journey. Protecting your intellectual property and ensuring proper acknowledgment are crucial steps in the publishing process. The copyright […] The post Crafting The Perfect Copyright Page appeared first on Sidebar Saturdays.
  Matt Knight
• Writing Podcasts April 13, 2024
  I love a good podcast. Especially if it’s about writing. Podcasts are a great way to learn, get inspired, and tap into the writing community. If you need a few suggestions, check out these podcast […] The post Writing Podcasts appeared first on Sidebar Saturdays.
  Matt Knight
• Seven Questions for Finding the Right Hybrid Publisher March 23, 2024
  Most writers dream of being published by a major traditional publisher and becoming a bestselling author. It can take a while to realize that the number of writers with that kind of luck is vanishingly […] The post Seven Questions for Finding the Right Hybrid Publisher appeared first on Sidebar Saturdays.
  Gabi Coatsworth
• Artificial Intelligence Generated Work – Copyright Protection and Infringement March 2, 2024
  As AI technologies evolve, it becomes crucial to understand the nuances of copyright protection and infringement in the context of AI-generated works. The post Artificial Intelligence Generated Work – Copyright Protection and Infringement appeared first on Sidebar Saturdays.
  Matt Knight
• Using Song Lyrics In Fiction August 5, 2023
  I hear this question often — “Can I use song lyrics in my fiction?” I completely understand. Music provides great inspiration for writers. A few lines from “In Da Club” by 50 Cent could be […] The post Using Song Lyrics In Fiction appeared first on Sidebar Saturdays.
  Matt Knight