David Estes Fans and YA Book Lovers Unite! discussion

Hi everyone! I have a question about the copyright laws in regards to using either a quote or character from a book or movie in a scene in the book I am writing. For example: I have a scene where one of my characters has a coffee mug with her favorite quote from one of her favorite book series on it, or talking about dressing up as a character for a movie release party, is this against copyright laws? I have researched it online but I haven't found an exact answer. Thanks for your help.

I always wondered about this, too, but I'm not sure of the answer! My guess is you're OK, as long as you're giving credit to the source for the quote. Dressing up as a character wouldn't be an issue at all. You are certainly permitted to make reference to pop culture, but when you're using a direct quote, I'm not sure of the rules, but my guess is you only have to give credit to the source of the quote (book, movie, etc.)

I know from other books, I've seen someone include lyrics to an entire song- citing the source - but it had to be removed because that was a copyright issue. They ended up being able to reference it, say how someone was singing and dancing - just not quote the whole song.

Many other books I've read make pop-culture and trademark company names/brand references - and they specifically put a forward or whatever listing each and every item, and who it's Trademarked by and that the author does not own any of those trademarks.

Sorry it's not really a overly specific detailed answer including a simple yes or no, but thought I'd relay my reading experiences when coming across this.

Thank you David and Alana. That info is very helpful.