Richard Curtis, the acclaimed New Zealand-born screenwriter and director, captured hearts around the world with his heartwarming romantic comedies and poignant dramas that blend humor, romance, and social commentary. From his collaborations with Hugh Grant on films like "Four Weddings and a Funeral" and "Love Actually" to his advocacy for global humanitarian causes through initiatives like Comic Relief, Curtis' storytelling prowess and commitment to making the world a better place have earned him admiration and acclaim both in Hollywood and beyond.
"I tend to turn down books originally published as e-books. As for selling books directly to e-book publishers, I would do so only if all traditional publishers had turned them down."
"We are taking a business-as-usual position at my agency, though business before 9/11 wasn't that hot either!"
"You have to remember that in addition to running a literary agency, I am also an ebook publisher."
"We now open our mail with gloves and mask, though I can't imagine why anyone would target a literary agency!"
"Laboratories can reduce risk by implementing a proven and internationally accepted quality assurance technology that is applicable across the globe."
"Again, we turn down most books that have been self-published unless they have a special track record. We have taken a small number on, however, and sold them to major publishers for a nice sum. But that is an exception to the rule."
"We are forced by the major publishers to include electronic rights in the contracts we make with publishers for new books. And there's very little we can do about that."
"I do send out information about my books. Very few people buy the books that way, but I always feel that if they want to know more about the process, they can get the information from my books."
"It's always a mistake for writers to key their submissions to world events, because they move so quickly and unpredictably, as has certainly proven the case in Afghanistan."
"The real effect of the WTC calamity has been depressed spirits, anxiety, and uncertainty among publishers, and of course those emotions are not restricted to publishers."
"The key factor is whether the agent is a member of the Association of Authors' Representatives, which screens its members and requires them to uphold a Canon of Ethics."