DCP & Writers’ How-to Series | The Writers' Union of Canada

<article data-history-node-id="466" about="/writers-how-to-series" class="publications-store full clearfix"> <div class="content"> <div class="home_page_banner independent_banner banner_height_adhust" style="background-color: #00759B;"> <div class="container"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-12"> <div class=""> <h1 class="publication_store_banner_text talign_center">DCP & Writers’ How-to Series</h1> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="home_page_banner independent_banner" style="background-color: #f3f2f3;"> <div class="container"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-12"> <div class=""> <h2 class="call_to_text talign_center">Are you a member?</h2> </div> </div> <div class="col-sm-12"> <div class="col-sm-7 col-xs-12 call_to_url box_center talign_center"> <a target="_blank" href="https://portal.writersunion.ca/member-resources">Click here to access the DCP and Writers’ How-to Series for free!</a> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="publications_short_description talign_center"> <div class="container"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-12"> <div class="start_point end_point"> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><p>Like all business, getting published is a complex undertaking. To provide guidance to writers on getting published (traditional and self-published), navigating relationships with agents and editors, and understanding the business of writing (taxes, archives, literary estates), the Union has created a series of How-to guides available for purchase (or free for members) as downloadable PDFs. The Directory of Canadian Publishers is a searchable online database available as a one-year subscription. </p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="canadian_publishers" style="background-color: #f2f2f2;"> <div class="container"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-12"> <div class="start_point end_point"> <div class="field field--name-field-how-to-series-canadian-pub field--type-block-field field--label-hidden field--item"><section class="views-element-container block block-views block-views-blockhow-to-series-canadian-publisher-block-1 clearfix" id="block-views-block-how-to-series-canadian-publisher-block-1"> <div class="form-group"><div class="view view-how-to-series-canadian-publisher view-id-how_to_series_canadian_publisher view-display-id-block_1 js-view-dom-id-a3d80907bcbddccbb5865793e656a479f2c330fc8da6d7fe7d3c307e53a2fe5e"> <div class="view-content"> <div id="dcp" class="whts_cadp"> <div> <h2 class="hts_cadp">DIRECTORY OF CANADIAN PUBLISHERS</h2> </div> <div class="" style="margin-bottom: 60px;"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-4 col-xs-12"> <img class="img-responsive" src="/sites/default/files/2022-03/ca_feature_image.PNG"/> </div> <div class="col-sm-8 col-xs-12"> <p>This searchable online database lists Canadian publishers who currently accept unsolicited manuscripts. Listings include information about genres, categories, and any specific submission instructions. The DCP also includes quick tips on finding a publisher, submitting a manuscript, and negotiating a contract.</p><p>Please note: <strong>A subscription to the DCP is NOT a membership in the Union. </strong>To learn more about membership, please click <a href="https://writersunion.ca/become-a-member" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p>Click the Add To Cart button to purchase a one-year subscription to the DCP for $10.00.</p><p>Once your order is processed, you will be emailed instructions on how to access the DCP through our website.</p><p>Access is free for members through the <a href="https://portal.writersunion.ca/publisher-guide-search" target="_blank" rel=" noopener" tabindex="-1">TWUC Member Portal</a> (login required).</p><p> </p> </div> <div class="col-sm-12" style="margin-top: 60px;"> <div class="hide_hun_cap"> <div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content">Directory of Canadian Publishers (DCP)</span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-book-featured-image"><div class="field-content"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/2022-03/ca_feature_image.PNG" width="323" height="492" alt="" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-body"><div class="field-content"><p>This searchable online database lists Canadian publishers who currently accept unsolicited manuscripts. Listings include information about genres, categories, and any specific submission instructions. The DCP also includes quick tips on finding a publisher, submitting a manuscript, and negotiating a contract.</p><p>Please note: <strong>A subscription to the DCP is NOT a membership in the Union. </strong>To learn more about membership, please click <a href="https://writersunion.ca/become-a-member" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p>Click the Add To Cart button to purchase a one-year subscription to the DCP for $10.00.</p><p>Once your order is processed, you will be emailed instructions on how to access the DCP through our website.</p><p>Access is free for members through the <a href="https://portal.writersunion.ca/publisher-guide-search" target="_blank" rel=" noopener" tabindex="-1">TWUC Member Portal</a> (login required).</p><p> </p></div></div><div class="views-field views-field-variations-target-id"><span class="field-content"><drupal-render-placeholder callback="commerce_product.lazy_builders:addToCartForm" arguments="0=4&1=_custom&2=&3=en" token="gnH3psMG52Qr3mnAXQtkVRNQRiY2dGSfK5JaAIc3QUs"></drupal-render-placeholder></span></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div> </div> </div> </div> </section> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="how_to_publications"> <div class="container"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-12"> <div class="start_point end_point"> <div class="field field--name-field-how-to-series-publications field--type-block-field field--label-hidden field--item"><section class="views-element-container block block-views block-views-blockhow-to-series-publications-block-1 clearfix" id="block-views-block-how-to-series-publications-block-1"> <div class="form-group"><div class="view view-how-to-series-publications view-id-how_to_series_publications view-display-id-block_1 js-view-dom-id-963da39560a70a35a52e9e17182ef532ecc866c38ca46a2a9ff2df8d2f1bd135"> <div class="view-content"> <div id="publications" class="whts_op"> <div> <h2 class="hts_ps">PUBLICATIONS</h2> </div> <div class="" style="margin-bottom: 60px;"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-md-12 col-xs-12 how_to_publications_description" style="margin: 30px 0; text-align: center;"> <p class="text-align-center">The Writers’ How-to Series offers professional guides on a variety of topics for writers. Individual digital copies available for purchase below. Access is free for members through the <a href="https://portal.writersunion.ca/writers-how-to-series" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TWUC Member Portal</a> (login required).</p><p class="text-align-center"> </p><h2 class="text-align-center">Purchase the whole set of Writers’ How-to publications</h2><p class="text-align-center">Download every publication in the series for information and advice on all of the topics below.</p> <div class="hide_hun_ps"> <div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content">Whole Set of Publications</span></div><div class="views-field views-field-body"><div class="field-content"><p class="text-align-center">The Writers’ How-to Series offers professional guides on a variety of topics for writers. Individual digital copies available for purchase below. Access is free for members through the <a href="https://portal.writersunion.ca/writers-how-to-series" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TWUC Member Portal</a> (login required).</p><p class="text-align-center"> </p><h2 class="text-align-center">Purchase the whole set of Writers’ How-to publications</h2><p class="text-align-center">Download every publication in the series for information and advice on all of the topics below.</p></div></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-book-price"><div class="field-content"> <div class="field field--name-field-book-price field--type-commerce-price field--label-above"> <div class="field--label">Book price</div> <div class="field--item">$90.00</div> </div> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-variations-target-id"><span class="field-content"><drupal-render-placeholder callback="commerce_product.lazy_builders:addToCartForm" arguments="0=5&1=_custom&2=&3=en" token="XBg83vHLnaaNX9w5k6nlJt0wYtcvTmVfbeTXFzVVrb8"></drupal-render-placeholder></span></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div> </div> </div> </div> </section> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="how_to_latest_publications"> <div class="container"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-12"> <div class="start_point end_point"> <div class="field field--name-field-how-to-series-latest-publi field--type-block-field field--label-hidden field--item"><section class="views-element-container block block-views block-views-blockhow-to-series-latest-publications-block-1 clearfix" id="block-views-block-how-to-series-latest-publications-block-1"> <div class="form-group"><div class="view view-how-to-series-latest-publications view-id-how_to_series_latest_publications view-display-id-block_1 js-view-dom-id-ea26570936b1eb0e517f56f037c9aa0ab0a8bb93c5291be1fc8ab77891e0e0d8"> <div class="view-content"> <div id="latest-publications" class="whts_op"> <div><div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-12"> <h2 class="hts_lp"><span>Latest Publications</span></h2> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-sm-12" style="margin-bottom: 60px; padding-left: 0;"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-md-3 col-sm-4 col-xs-6 col-xxs-12" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <img class="img-responsive" src="/sites/default/files/2026-03/AuthorandAgent-Booklet-cover.jpg"/> </div> <div class="col-md-9 col-sm-8 col-xs-12 "> <h3 class="lps_title" style="margin-top: 5px;">Author & Agent (2026)</h3> <p><b>By Michael Redhill</b></p> <p><p>This publication aims to demystify the process of finding a literary agent. It outlines the relationship between author and agent, including important insights into what agents are looking for, how they work with their clients, when it’s time to look for an agent, and what you should look for in an agent.</p></p> <a target="_blank" style="link_orange" href="/sites/default/files/2026-03/TOC_TWUC-AuthorandAgent-Booklet-2026.pdf">Preview the Table of Contents.</a> <br><br> <div class="hide_hun_lp"> <div class="views-field views-field-field-book-featured-image"><div class="field-content"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/2026-03/AuthorandAgent-Booklet-cover.jpg" width="396" height="612" alt="Author & Agent cover" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content">Author & Agent (2026)</span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-author-by"><div class="field-content">Michael Redhill</div></div><div class="views-field views-field-body"><div class="field-content"><p>This publication aims to demystify the process of finding a literary agent. It outlines the relationship between author and agent, including important insights into what agents are looking for, how they work with their clients, when it’s time to look for an agent, and what you should look for in an agent.</p></div></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-table-of-contents"><div class="field-content"><span class="file file--mime-application-pdf file--application-pdf icon-before"><span class="file-icon"><span class="icon glyphicon glyphicon-file text-primary" aria-hidden="true"></span></span><span class="file-link"><a href="https://writersunion.ca/sites/default/files/2026-03/TOC_TWUC-AuthorandAgent-Booklet-2026.pdf" type="application/pdf; length=1782370" title="Open file in new window" target="_blank" data-toggle="tooltip" data-placement="bottom">TOC_TWUC-AuthorandAgent-Booklet-2026.pdf</a></span><span class="file-size">1.7 MB</span></span></div></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-book-price"><div class="field-content"> <div class="field field--name-field-book-price field--type-commerce-price field--label-above"> <div class="field--label">Book price</div> <div class="field--item">$9.99</div> </div> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-variations-target-id"><span class="field-content"><drupal-render-placeholder callback="commerce_product.lazy_builders:addToCartForm" arguments="0=16&1=_custom&2=&3=en" token="pZuQzEQ1KRIEOi7mDfRS3zDIyg-KIYGeYGiE7K239F4"></drupal-render-placeholder></span></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="col-sm-12" style="margin-bottom: 60px; padding-left: 0;"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-md-3 col-sm-4 col-xs-6 col-xxs-12" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <img class="img-responsive" src="/sites/default/files/2026-02/GuidetoGrants-Booklet-2026-cover.jpg"/> </div> <div class="col-md-9 col-sm-8 col-xs-12 "> <h3 class="lps_title" style="margin-top: 5px;">Writers’ Guide to Grants (2026)</h3> <p><b>By C.E. Gatchalian</b></p> <p><p>A practical guide on grants for writers in Canada. This booklet includes a breakdown of grants available to writers, including types of public funders and types of grants, general advice for grant writing, tips for navigating success and rejection, and additional resources. </p></p> <a target="_blank" style="link_orange" href="/sites/default/files/2026-02/TOC_TWUC-GuidetoGrants-Booklet-2026.pdf">Preview the Table of Contents.</a> <br><br> <div class="hide_hun_lp"> <div class="views-field views-field-field-book-featured-image"><div class="field-content"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/2026-02/GuidetoGrants-Booklet-2026-cover.jpg" width="398" height="615" alt="Writers’ Guide to Grants cover" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content">Writers’ Guide to Grants (2026)</span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-author-by"><div class="field-content">C.E. Gatchalian</div></div><div class="views-field views-field-body"><div class="field-content"><p>A practical guide on grants for writers in Canada. This booklet includes a breakdown of grants available to writers, including types of public funders and types of grants, general advice for grant writing, tips for navigating success and rejection, and additional resources. </p></div></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-table-of-contents"><div class="field-content"><span class="file file--mime-application-pdf file--application-pdf icon-before"><span class="file-icon"><span class="icon glyphicon glyphicon-file text-primary" aria-hidden="true"></span></span><span class="file-link"><a href="https://writersunion.ca/sites/default/files/2026-02/TOC_TWUC-GuidetoGrants-Booklet-2026.pdf" type="application/pdf; length=247726" title="Open file in new window" target="_blank" data-toggle="tooltip" data-placement="bottom">TOC_TWUC-GuidetoGrants-Booklet-2026.pdf</a></span><span class="file-size">241.92 KB</span></span></div></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-book-price"><div class="field-content"> <div class="field field--name-field-book-price field--type-commerce-price field--label-above"> <div class="field--label">Book price</div> <div class="field--item">$9.99</div> </div> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-variations-target-id"><span class="field-content"><drupal-render-placeholder callback="commerce_product.lazy_builders:addToCartForm" arguments="0=20&1=_custom&2=&3=en" token="Th06TTo7VPb3YYmfaWJahgWdfi0LmTqL4Lriclll6y8"></drupal-render-placeholder></span></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="col-sm-12" style="margin-bottom: 60px; padding-left: 0;"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-md-3 col-sm-4 col-xs-6 col-xxs-12" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <img class="img-responsive" src="/sites/default/files/2025-12/TraditionalPublishing-Booklet-2025-cover.jpg"/> </div> <div class="col-md-9 col-sm-8 col-xs-12 "> <h3 class="lps_title" style="margin-top: 5px;">Navigating Traditional Publishing (2025)</h3> <p><b>By Sal Sawler</b></p> <p><p>This publication provides an overview of the traditional publishing process, including the differences between traditional, hybrid, and self-publishing. It also covers the steps of researching publishers and agents, submitting your work, and handling acceptance and rejection.</p></p> <a target="_blank" style="link_orange" href="/sites/default/files/2025-12/TOC_TWUC_TraditionalPublishing-Booklet-2025.pdf">Preview the Table of Contents.</a> <br><br> <div class="hide_hun_lp"> <div class="views-field views-field-field-book-featured-image"><div class="field-content"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/2025-12/TraditionalPublishing-Booklet-2025-cover.jpg" width="398" height="615" alt="Navigating Traditional Publishing cover" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content">Navigating Traditional Publishing (2025)</span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-author-by"><div class="field-content">Sal Sawler</div></div><div class="views-field views-field-body"><div class="field-content"><p>This publication provides an overview of the traditional publishing process, including the differences between traditional, hybrid, and self-publishing. It also covers the steps of researching publishers and agents, submitting your work, and handling acceptance and rejection.</p></div></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-table-of-contents"><div class="field-content"><span class="file file--mime-application-pdf file--application-pdf icon-before"><span class="file-icon"><span class="icon glyphicon glyphicon-file text-primary" aria-hidden="true"></span></span><span class="file-link"><a href="https://writersunion.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/TOC_TWUC_TraditionalPublishing-Booklet-2025.pdf" type="application/pdf; length=208800" title="Open file in new window" target="_blank" data-toggle="tooltip" data-placement="bottom">TOC_TWUC_TraditionalPublishing-Booklet-2025.pdf</a></span><span class="file-size">203.91 KB</span></span></div></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-book-price"><div class="field-content"> <div class="field field--name-field-book-price field--type-commerce-price field--label-above"> <div class="field--label">Book price</div> <div class="field--item">$9.99</div> </div> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-variations-target-id"><span class="field-content"><drupal-render-placeholder callback="commerce_product.lazy_builders:addToCartForm" arguments="0=23&1=_custom&2=&3=en" token="5iUSuwhlZm2NRZY465uPE-kCXR22v4bo13WkFMes3kg"></drupal-render-placeholder></span></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="col-sm-12" style="margin-bottom: 60px; padding-left: 0;"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-md-3 col-sm-4 col-xs-6 col-xxs-12" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <img class="img-responsive" src="/sites/default/files/2025-11/SellYourBook-Booklet-2025-cover.jpg"/> </div> <div class="col-md-9 col-sm-8 col-xs-12 "> <h3 class="lps_title" style="margin-top: 5px;">Sell Your Book: An Author’s Guide to Publicity and Promotion (2025)</h3> <p><b>By Suzanne Alyssa Andrew</b></p> <p><p>This publication provides ideas for publicity and promotional activities that work, including a blueprint for your own personal book marketing plan and worksheets. It features tips from authors Margaret Bryant, Claire Cameron, Chris Chambers, Farzana Doctor, Christine Fischer Guy, Lisa Levy, Maria Meindl, Heidi Reimer, Lana Starchuck, with industry advice from Sales Director at Orca Books, Margaret Bryant, and Sue Carter, literature officer, Ontario Arts Council, and former editor, <em>Quill & Quire</em>.</p></p> <a target="_blank" style="link_orange" href="/sites/default/files/2025-11/TOC_TWUC_Sell-Your-Book-2025.pdf">Preview the Table of Contents.</a> <br><br> <div class="hide_hun_lp"> <div class="views-field views-field-field-book-featured-image"><div class="field-content"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/2025-11/SellYourBook-Booklet-2025-cover.jpg" width="398" height="615" alt="Sell Your Book: An Author's Guide to Publicity and Promotion (2025) By Suzanne Alyssa Andrew" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content">Sell Your Book: An Author’s Guide to Publicity and Promotion (2025)</span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-author-by"><div class="field-content">Suzanne Alyssa Andrew</div></div><div class="views-field views-field-body"><div class="field-content"><p>This publication provides ideas for publicity and promotional activities that work, including a blueprint for your own personal book marketing plan and worksheets. It features tips from authors Margaret Bryant, Claire Cameron, Chris Chambers, Farzana Doctor, Christine Fischer Guy, Lisa Levy, Maria Meindl, Heidi Reimer, Lana Starchuck, with industry advice from Sales Director at Orca Books, Margaret Bryant, and Sue Carter, literature officer, Ontario Arts Council, and former editor, <em>Quill & Quire</em>.</p></div></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-table-of-contents"><div class="field-content"><span class="file file--mime-application-pdf file--application-pdf icon-before"><span class="file-icon"><span class="icon glyphicon glyphicon-file text-primary" aria-hidden="true"></span></span><span class="file-link"><a href="https://writersunion.ca/sites/default/files/2025-11/TOC_TWUC_Sell-Your-Book-2025.pdf" type="application/pdf; length=194529" title="Open file in new window" target="_blank" data-toggle="tooltip" data-placement="bottom">TOC_TWUC_Sell-Your-Book-2025.pdf</a></span><span class="file-size">189.97 KB</span></span></div></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-book-price"><div class="field-content"> <div class="field field--name-field-book-price field--type-commerce-price field--label-above"> <div class="field--label">Book price</div> <div class="field--item">$9.99</div> </div> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-variations-target-id"><span class="field-content"><drupal-render-placeholder callback="commerce_product.lazy_builders:addToCartForm" arguments="0=10&1=_custom&2=&3=en" token="0eqa_7qTQRJtY9kSweTzH3MLIh4IwoBtVFCPIXqzesY"></drupal-render-placeholder></span></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="col-sm-12" style="margin-bottom: 60px; padding-left: 0;"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-md-3 col-sm-4 col-xs-6 col-xxs-12" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <img class="img-responsive" src="/sites/default/files/2025-11/AuthorandEditor-Booklet-2025_cover.jpg"/> </div> <div class="col-md-9 col-sm-8 col-xs-12 "> <h3 class="lps_title" style="margin-top: 5px;">Author & Editor (2025)</h3> <p><b>By Margo LaPierre</b></p> <p><p>A booklet describing the relationship between author and editor, including expectations and a list of dos and don’ts for both parties.</p></p> <a target="_blank" style="link_orange" href="/sites/default/files/2025-11/TOC_TWUC_AuthorandEditor-Booklet-2025.pdf">Preview the Table of Contents.</a> <br><br> <div class="hide_hun_lp"> <div class="views-field views-field-field-book-featured-image"><div class="field-content"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/2025-11/AuthorandEditor-Booklet-2025_cover.jpg" width="398" height="615" alt="Author & Editor cover" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content">Author & Editor (2025)</span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-author-by"><div class="field-content">Margo LaPierre</div></div><div class="views-field views-field-body"><div class="field-content"><p>A booklet describing the relationship between author and editor, including expectations and a list of dos and don’ts for both parties.</p></div></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-table-of-contents"><div class="field-content"><span class="file file--mime-application-pdf file--application-pdf icon-before"><span class="file-icon"><span class="icon glyphicon glyphicon-file text-primary" aria-hidden="true"></span></span><span class="file-link"><a href="https://writersunion.ca/sites/default/files/2025-11/TOC_TWUC_AuthorandEditor-Booklet-2025.pdf" type="application/pdf; length=318489" title="Open file in new window" target="_blank" data-toggle="tooltip" data-placement="bottom">TOC_TWUC_AuthorandEditor-Booklet-2025.pdf</a></span><span class="file-size">311.02 KB</span></span></div></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-book-price"><div class="field-content"> <div class="field field--name-field-book-price field--type-commerce-price field--label-above"> <div class="field--label">Book price</div> <div class="field--item">$9.99</div> </div> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-variations-target-id"><span class="field-content"><drupal-render-placeholder callback="commerce_product.lazy_builders:addToCartForm" arguments="0=15&1=_custom&2=&3=en" token="qElKKH46SixqbzaFRa6jInQXrZKFk3gZgFa1L1zfXkc"></drupal-render-placeholder></span></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="col-sm-12" style="margin-bottom: 60px; padding-left: 0;"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-md-3 col-sm-4 col-xs-6 col-xxs-12" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <img class="img-responsive" src="/sites/default/files/2025-11/FinalChapter-Booklet-2025-cover.jpg"/> </div> <div class="col-md-9 col-sm-8 col-xs-12 "> <h3 class="lps_title" style="margin-top: 5px;">The Final Chapter: Estate and Legacy Planning for Writers (2025)</h3> <p><b>By Susan Goldberg</b></p> <p><p>This publication covers wills and powers of attorney, literary estates and appointing a literary executor, and how to plan your literary archive. It includes comments from Shauna Singh Baldwin, Terry Fallis, Lawrence Hill, Robert J. Sawyer, Susan Swan, Alana Wilcox, and others.</p></p> <a target="_blank" style="link_orange" href="/sites/default/files/2025-11/TOC_TWUC_FinalChapter-Booklet-2025.pdf">Preview the Table of Contents.</a> <br><br> <div class="hide_hun_lp"> <div class="views-field views-field-field-book-featured-image"><div class="field-content"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/2025-11/FinalChapter-Booklet-2025-cover.jpg" width="398" height="615" alt="The Final Chapter: Estate and Legacy Planning for Writers (2025) By Susan Goldberg" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content">The Final Chapter: Estate and Legacy Planning for Writers (2025)</span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-author-by"><div class="field-content">Susan Goldberg</div></div><div class="views-field views-field-body"><div class="field-content"><p>This publication covers wills and powers of attorney, literary estates and appointing a literary executor, and how to plan your literary archive. It includes comments from Shauna Singh Baldwin, Terry Fallis, Lawrence Hill, Robert J. Sawyer, Susan Swan, Alana Wilcox, and others.</p></div></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-table-of-contents"><div class="field-content"><span class="file file--mime-application-pdf file--application-pdf icon-before"><span class="file-icon"><span class="icon glyphicon glyphicon-file text-primary" aria-hidden="true"></span></span><span class="file-link"><a href="https://writersunion.ca/sites/default/files/2025-11/TOC_TWUC_FinalChapter-Booklet-2025.pdf" type="application/pdf; length=346779" title="Open file in new window" target="_blank" data-toggle="tooltip" data-placement="bottom">TOC_TWUC_FinalChapter-Booklet-2025.pdf</a></span><span class="file-size">338.65 KB</span></span></div></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-book-price"><div class="field-content"> <div class="field field--name-field-book-price field--type-commerce-price field--label-above"> <div class="field--label">Book price</div> <div class="field--item">$9.99</div> </div> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-variations-target-id"><span class="field-content"><drupal-render-placeholder callback="commerce_product.lazy_builders:addToCartForm" arguments="0=8&1=_custom&2=&3=en" token="t8k1m3RIDJ5Ecs5ws90Wa-gMNKwdupISkNRPgpCFnWY"></drupal-render-placeholder></span></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="col-sm-12" style="margin-bottom: 60px; padding-left: 0;"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-md-3 col-sm-4 col-xs-6 col-xxs-12" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <img class="img-responsive" src="/sites/default/files/2022-03/Taxes-Cover-Big.jpg"/> </div> <div class="col-md-9 col-sm-8 col-xs-12 "> <h3 class="lps_title" style="margin-top: 5px;">Everything You Never Wanted to Know About Taxes (2025)</h3> <p><b>By Joel Fishbane</b></p> <p><p>A practical tax guide for those in the business of writing that covers types of income and expenses, details about the GST, and incorporation. This publication contains information useful to all writers, whether you file your own taxes or have them filed by a professional.</p> </p> <a target="_blank" style="link_orange" href="/sites/default/files/2025-07/TOC_TWUC-Everything-You-Never-Wanted-to-Know-About-Taxes-2025.pdf">Preview the Table of Contents.</a> <br><br> <div class="hide_hun_lp"> <div class="views-field views-field-field-book-featured-image"><div class="field-content"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/2022-03/Taxes-Cover-Big.jpg" width="1650" height="2550" alt="Cover image with the publication title and pile of papers." typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content">Everything You Never Wanted to Know About Taxes (2025)</span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-author-by"><div class="field-content">Joel Fishbane</div></div><div class="views-field views-field-body"><div class="field-content"><p>A practical tax guide for those in the business of writing that covers types of income and expenses, details about the GST, and incorporation. This publication contains information useful to all writers, whether you file your own taxes or have them filed by a professional.</p> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-table-of-contents"><div class="field-content"><span class="file file--mime-application-pdf file--application-pdf icon-before"><span class="file-icon"><span class="icon glyphicon glyphicon-file text-primary" aria-hidden="true"></span></span><span class="file-link"><a href="https://writersunion.ca/sites/default/files/2025-07/TOC_TWUC-Everything-You-Never-Wanted-to-Know-About-Taxes-2025.pdf" type="application/pdf; length=106865" title="Open file in new window" target="_blank" data-toggle="tooltip" data-placement="bottom">TOC_TWUC-Everything-You-Never-Wanted-to-Know-About-Taxes-2025.pdf</a></span><span class="file-size">104.36 KB</span></span></div></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-book-price"><div class="field-content"> <div class="field field--name-field-book-price field--type-commerce-price field--label-above"> <div class="field--label">Book price</div> <div class="field--item">$9.99</div> </div> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-variations-target-id"><span class="field-content"><drupal-render-placeholder callback="commerce_product.lazy_builders:addToCartForm" arguments="0=7&1=_custom&2=&3=en" token="VMHveee0vUufh-2CMPzdLAHdc70Wd0Ow8CUyovKXeZ4"></drupal-render-placeholder></span></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div> </div> </div> </div> </section> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="how_to_latest_publications"> <div class="container"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-12"> <div class="start_point end_point"> <div class="field field--name-field-how-to-series-self-help-pa field--type-block-field field--label-hidden field--item"><section class="views-element-container block block-views block-views-blockhow-to-series-self-help-package-block-1 clearfix" id="block-views-block-how-to-series-self-help-package-block-1"> <div class="form-group"><div class="view view-how-to-series-self-help-package view-id-how_to_series_self_help_package view-display-id-block_1 js-view-dom-id-a45d9bcecb3b0480f02cd35f4ac9edc869cb24ac7d6e276021f0ce2d825d0573"> <div class="view-content"> <div id="contracts-self-help-package" class="whts_op"> <div> <h2 class="hts_csp" style="margin-top: 60px;"> <span>Contracts Self-Help Package</span> </h2> </div> <div class="" style="margin-bottom: 60px;"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-md-12 col-xs-12"> <p>If you have been offered a contract by a publisher, or anticipate such an offer in the near future, help is available. This package helps writers evaluate and negotiate contracts offered by publishers. The Model Trade Book Contract is an example of an equitable publishing agreement between an author and publisher. Help Yourself to a Better Contract (written for the Union by legal-counsel Marian Hebb) is a guide to the negotiation process, including a checklist of favourable contract provisions.</p> <div class="hide_hun_csp"> <div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content">Contracts Self-Help Package</span></div><div class="views-field views-field-body"><div class="field-content"><p>If you have been offered a contract by a publisher, or anticipate such an offer in the near future, help is available. This package helps writers evaluate and negotiate contracts offered by publishers. The Model Trade Book Contract is an example of an equitable publishing agreement between an author and publisher. Help Yourself to a Better Contract (written for the Union by legal-counsel Marian Hebb) is a guide to the negotiation process, including a checklist of favourable contract provisions.</p> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-book-price"><div class="field-content"> <div class="field field--name-field-book-price field--type-commerce-price field--label-above"> <div class="field--label">Book price</div> <div class="field--item">$15.00</div> </div> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-variations-target-id"><span class="field-content"><drupal-render-placeholder callback="commerce_product.lazy_builders:addToCartForm" arguments="0=11&1=_custom&2=&3=en" token="PkaAlP4o6CHYdK1d42QVMm3la4aKH5FXM6u9gfUCZ8M"></drupal-render-placeholder></span></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div> </div> </div> </div> </section> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="how_to_latest_publications"> <div class="container"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-12"> <div class="start_point end_point"> <div class="field field--name-field-how-to-series-self-help-p- field--type-block-field field--label-hidden field--item"><section class="views-element-container block block-views block-views-blockhow-to-series-self-help-package-book-block-1 clearfix" id="block-views-block-how-to-series-self-help-package-book-block-1"> <div class="form-group"><div class="view view-how-to-series-self-help-package-book view-id-how_to_series_self_help_package_book view-display-id-block_1 js-view-dom-id-63c47b504e1fd1a3de70caafc37dadb3fa62b3356537b7ef463f4453d747d66d"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="whts_op"> <div class=""> <div class="row"> <div class="col-md-6 col-sm-12 col-xs-12" style="margin-bottom: 45px;"> <div class="col-md-3 col-sm-4 col-xs-4 col-xxs-12" style="padding-left: 0; margin-bottom: 20px;"> <img class="img-responsive" src="/sites/default/files/2022-03/MTBC-2021.jpg"/> </div> <div class="col-md-9 col-sm-8 col-xs-8 col-xxs-12 pad0_mob"> <h3 class="ops_title" style="margin-top: 0;">Model Trade Book Contract (2023)</h3> <div style="margin: 20px 0;"> <p>This comprehensive model contract provides reasonable minimum terms for trade book contracts and is a useful comparative tool for evaluating your publisher’s contract.</p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="col-md-6 col-sm-12 col-xs-12" style="margin-bottom: 45px;"> <div class="col-md-3 col-sm-4 col-xs-4 col-xxs-12" style="padding-left: 0; margin-bottom: 20px;"> <img class="img-responsive" src="/sites/default/files/2022-03/HelpYourselfToABetterContract.jpg"/> </div> <div class="col-md-9 col-sm-8 col-xs-8 col-xxs-12 pad0_mob"> <h3 class="ops_title" style="margin-top: 0;">Help Yourself to a Better Contract (2006)</h3> <p><b>By Marian Hebb</b></p> <div style="margin: 20px 0;"> <p>Checklist of favourable book contract provisions with advice on what to ask and what to watch for. Designed to aid writers in book contract negotiations with their publishers.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div> </div> </div> </div> </section> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="how_to_latest_publications"> <div class="container"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-12"> <div class="start_point end_point"> <div class="field field--name-field-self-help-package-more field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field--item"><p>Please be aware of the following: The Contract Self-Help Package usually answers most writers<span>’</span> questions about publishing contracts, and the Union encourages writers to evaluate and negotiate their own contract. A publisher<span>’</span>s contract (like other personal contracts) is not written in stone — it is a document to be negotiated. The publisher should provide sixty days in which you may consider the contract offer and seek advice. If you wish to use any of the Union<span>’</span>s Contract Services, you should contact the Union as soon as possible after receiving a publishing offer.</p></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="how_to_latest_publications"> <div class="container"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-12"> <div class="start_point end_point"> <div class="field field--name-field-how-to-series-other-public field--type-block-field field--label-hidden field--item"><section class="views-element-container block block-views block-views-blockhow-to-series-other-publications-block-1 clearfix" id="block-views-block-how-to-series-other-publications-block-1"> <div class="form-group"><div class="view view-how-to-series-other-publications view-id-how_to_series_other_publications view-display-id-block_1 js-view-dom-id-239988a0ee44011eb6cc138a914ca2a8e596d1daca702f2076303004cb766feb"> <div class="view-content"> <div id="other-publications" class="whts_op" style="float: left; margin-bottom: 60px;"> <div> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-12" style="margin-top: 60px;"> <h2 class="hts_oa"><span>Other Publications</span></h2> </div> </div> </div> <div class="col-sm-12" style="margin-bottom: 60px; padding-left:0;"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-md-2 col-sm-4 col-xs-6 col-xxs-12" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <img class="img-responsive" src="/sites/default/files/2023-11/2023%20cover.png"/> </div> <div class="col-md-10 col-sm-8 col-xs-12 "> <h3 class="ops_title" style="margin-top: 5px;">How to Self-Publish (2023)</h3> <p>By Eve Silver (2017); Updated by Arthur Slade (2023)</p> <p style="margin: 30px 0;">This in-depth guide covers the how and why of self-publishing, from editing and design to distribution and marketing. It includes information suitable for authors with both unpublished and previously published materials.</p> <div class="hide_hun"> <div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content">How to Self-Publish (2023)</span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-book-featured-image"><div class="field-content"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/2023-11/2023%20cover.png" width="400" height="615" alt="How to Self-Publish by Eve Silver (2017), updated by Arthur Slade (2023)" typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-author-by"><div class="field-content">Eve Silver (2017); Updated by Arthur Slade (2023)</div></div><div class="views-field views-field-body"><div class="field-content"><p>This in-depth guide covers the how and why of self-publishing, from editing and design to distribution and marketing. It includes information suitable for authors with both unpublished and previously published materials.</p></div></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-book-price"><div class="field-content"> <div class="field field--name-field-book-price field--type-commerce-price field--label-above"> <div class="field--label">Book price</div> <div class="field--item">$9.99</div> </div> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-variations-target-id"><span class="field-content"><drupal-render-placeholder callback="commerce_product.lazy_builders:addToCartForm" arguments="0=9&1=_custom&2=&3=en" token="AzcohaJ7Pr8FDjHpnioOTV1k_l7PQf7GFZK0042XNSI"></drupal-render-placeholder></span></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="col-sm-12" style="margin-bottom: 60px; padding-left:0;"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-md-2 col-sm-4 col-xs-6 col-xxs-12" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <img class="img-responsive" src="/sites/default/files/2022-03/Archives.jpg"/> </div> <div class="col-md-10 col-sm-8 col-xs-12 "> <h3 class="ops_title" style="margin-top: 5px;">Thinking About Your Archives? It’s Never Too Late to Consider the Future of Your Past (2021)</h3> <p>By Sarah Hillier</p> <p style="margin: 30px 0;">This guide to literary archives covers basic archival principles and what’s important to keep, how to maintain and organize your files, digital considerations, selecting the right archival repository, how to negotiate the donation or sale of your archives, and more.</p> <div class="hide_hun"> <div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content">Thinking About Your Archives? It’s Never Too Late to Consider the Future of Your Past (2021)</span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-book-featured-image"><div class="field-content"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/2022-03/Archives.jpg" width="396" height="612" alt="Cover image with a laptop and a pile of folders." typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-author-by"><div class="field-content">Sarah Hillier</div></div><div class="views-field views-field-body"><div class="field-content"><p>This guide to literary archives covers basic archival principles and what’s important to keep, how to maintain and organize your files, digital considerations, selecting the right archival repository, how to negotiate the donation or sale of your archives, and more.</p></div></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-book-price"><div class="field-content"> <div class="field field--name-field-book-price field--type-commerce-price field--label-above"> <div class="field--label">Book price</div> <div class="field--item">$9.99</div> </div> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-variations-target-id"><span class="field-content"><drupal-render-placeholder callback="commerce_product.lazy_builders:addToCartForm" arguments="0=6&1=_custom&2=&3=en" token="eFHEsq0aM__6ijMZGdvGYWmr8wQMkbwc_xA4oFskAbA"></drupal-render-placeholder></span></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="col-sm-12" style="margin-bottom: 60px; padding-left:0;"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-md-2 col-sm-4 col-xs-6 col-xxs-12" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <img class="img-responsive" src="/sites/default/files/2022-03/AnthologyRatesAndContracts.jpg"/> </div> <div class="col-md-10 col-sm-8 col-xs-12 "> <h3 class="ops_title" style="margin-top: 5px;">Anthology Rates and Contracts (2006)</h3> <p style="margin: 30px 0;">This document provides notes on contributions to anthologies, suggests minimum rates, and provides a suggested anthology contract. </p> <div class="hide_hun"> <div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content">Anthology Rates and Contracts (2006)</span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-book-featured-image"><div class="field-content"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/2022-03/AnthologyRatesAndContracts.jpg" width="396" height="612" alt="Cover image with the title of the publication." typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-author-by"><div class="field-content"></div></div><div class="views-field views-field-body"><div class="field-content"><p>This document provides notes on contributions to anthologies, suggests minimum rates, and provides a suggested anthology contract.</p> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-book-price"><div class="field-content"> <div class="field field--name-field-book-price field--type-commerce-price field--label-above"> <div class="field--label">Book price</div> <div class="field--item">$7.00</div> </div> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-variations-target-id"><span class="field-content"><drupal-render-placeholder callback="commerce_product.lazy_builders:addToCartForm" arguments="0=14&1=_custom&2=&3=en" token="_A9rFRX0HJKCoVR3AW0OoQb78Ps0vj6z1ZsPlkpKcRI"></drupal-render-placeholder></span></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="col-sm-12" style="margin-bottom: 60px; padding-left:0;"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-md-2 col-sm-4 col-xs-6 col-xxs-12" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <img class="img-responsive" src="/sites/default/files/2022-03/GlossaryOfPublishingTerms.jpg"/> </div> <div class="col-md-10 col-sm-8 col-xs-12 "> <h3 class="ops_title" style="margin-top: 5px;">Glossary of Publishing Terms (2003)</h3> <p style="margin: 30px 0;">An aid to authors when dealing with the book publishing industry — usually during contract negotiations. Intended as a user-friendly, alphabetical reference guide to terms commonly used within the industry. </p> <div class="hide_hun"> <div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content">Glossary of Publishing Terms (2003)</span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-book-featured-image"><div class="field-content"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/2022-03/GlossaryOfPublishingTerms.jpg" width="396" height="612" alt="Cover image with the title of the publication." typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-author-by"><div class="field-content"></div></div><div class="views-field views-field-body"><div class="field-content"><p>An aid to authors when dealing with the book publishing industry — usually during contract negotiations. Intended as a user-friendly, alphabetical reference guide to terms commonly used within the industry.</p> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-book-price"><div class="field-content"> <div class="field field--name-field-book-price field--type-commerce-price field--label-above"> <div class="field--label">Book price</div> <div class="field--item">$7.00</div> </div> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-variations-target-id"><span class="field-content"><drupal-render-placeholder callback="commerce_product.lazy_builders:addToCartForm" arguments="0=19&1=_custom&2=&3=en" token="Ad9Wj6n5rrEaSbiNQAntAaxM2CaCcO2kDhqNfcP1K40"></drupal-render-placeholder></span></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="col-sm-12" style="margin-bottom: 60px; padding-left:0;"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-md-2 col-sm-4 col-xs-6 col-xxs-12" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <img class="img-responsive" src="/sites/default/files/2022-03/FromPageToScreen.jpg"/> </div> <div class="col-md-10 col-sm-8 col-xs-12 "> <h3 class="ops_title" style="margin-top: 5px;">From Page to Screen (1999)</h3> <p style="margin: 30px 0;">A reference guide regarding options, film, and TV contracts for original literary works, including information on minimum and maximum rates paid. </p> <div class="hide_hun"> <div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content">From Page to Screen (1999)</span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-book-featured-image"><div class="field-content"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/2022-03/FromPageToScreen.jpg" width="396" height="612" alt="Cover image with the title of the publication." typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-author-by"><div class="field-content"></div></div><div class="views-field views-field-body"><div class="field-content"><p>A reference guide regarding options, film, and TV contracts for original literary works, including information on minimum and maximum rates paid.</p> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-book-price"><div class="field-content"> <div class="field field--name-field-book-price field--type-commerce-price field--label-above"> <div class="field--label">Book price</div> <div class="field--item">$7.00</div> </div> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-variations-target-id"><span class="field-content"><drupal-render-placeholder callback="commerce_product.lazy_builders:addToCartForm" arguments="0=17&1=_custom&2=&3=en" token="h2SLnSGEJzz_4ApQxGgLBq8ZR8t0MgQULWKjRBA_h_8"></drupal-render-placeholder></span></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="col-sm-12" style="margin-bottom: 60px; padding-left:0;"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-md-2 col-sm-4 col-xs-6 col-xxs-12" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <img class="img-responsive" src="/sites/default/files/2022-03/Ghostwriting.jpg"/> </div> <div class="col-md-10 col-sm-8 col-xs-12 "> <h3 class="ops_title" style="margin-top: 5px;">Ghostwriting (1995)</h3> <p>By Marian Hebb</p> <p style="margin: 30px 0;">This publication includes various details to consider when negotiating a ghost writing agreement, including a sample contract. </p> <div class="hide_hun"> <div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content">Ghostwriting (1995)</span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-book-featured-image"><div class="field-content"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/2022-03/Ghostwriting.jpg" width="396" height="612" alt="Cover image with the title of the publication." typeof="foaf:Image" class="img-responsive" /> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-author-by"><div class="field-content">Marian Hebb</div></div><div class="views-field views-field-body"><div class="field-content"><p>This publication includes various details to consider when negotiating a ghost writing agreement, including a sample contract.</p> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-book-price"><div class="field-content"> <div class="field field--name-field-book-price field--type-commerce-price field--label-above"> <div class="field--label">Book price</div> <div class="field--item">$7.00</div> </div> </div></div><div class="views-field views-field-variations-target-id"><span class="field-content"><drupal-render-placeholder callback="commerce_product.lazy_builders:addToCartForm" arguments="0=18&1=_custom&2=&3=en" token="OWMxNXrMqMlCC4QZeGaKgEz6f4Xoii4SoYzR_tx4IN0"></drupal-render-placeholder></span></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </section> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </article>