Modify book and sell it ?

[ths1104]

Can I modify a book and then:
- Sell it
- Distribute it for free
?
Additional Details
If no, could you provide the reference article ?

[Old Salt]

You need to consult with the author or the holder of his copyright.

As a retired technical writer, I have seen a lot of lawsuits regarding 'plagiarism.' Like a lot of things in law, the logical interpretation is not always accurate. It’s how the court sees it.

So the best thing is to agree with the author before you start, as the cost of defending a lawsuit is infinite.

How much of the book is copied word-for-word, usually determines whether there has been a copyright violation. However, it is often argued that the simple act of quoting a small passage violates the copyright.

And once you overcome that hurdle, then there is the concept that you may have damaged the value of the original publication.

Sorry if I have ruined your good idea, but I can assure you, there is no simply yes or no answer when lawyers and money are involved. And it seems that everyone has a correct (in his eyes) view of what violates copyright.

Good luck………..

and be sure to buy a suit of body armour before you start

Old Salt

[Khandro]

No, you can't.

[beso]

JK Rowling is has taken another author to court for writing a guide to Harry Potter. So even discussing the content of another author's work can be troublesome.