Discussion:
What is the name of your state? Minnesota
Okay, I know that this is going to sound a bit strange, but...
In 1997 or 1998 I began to write a young adult book. I have a degree in English and just got inspired one day. While the book is not finished, the main concepts are there and pretty much elaborated. I entered into graduate school around that time, so I could not commit a lot of time to developing the book.
Flash forward to now...I was at the movie theatre a few weeks ago. One of the trailer was for a new teen series on a major network. My main concepts were flashed on the screen to a "T!!" My jaw just dropped! Coincidence? Hard to say.
I discussed small parts of the book with some fellow co-workers back in 1997 or 1998. Unfortunately, many of the people were aspiring writers.
I am not accusing anyone-yet. It is just too much of a coincidence. I did not submit the draft to any publisher, so I am not worried about that.
What are your thoughts on this? Just blow it off? I have tried to research the creators of the show to find out if I worked with them. I just can't get over the similiarities.
Answer:
I hope you take this as it is meant, but next time KEEP YOUR MOUTH SHUT!
You have no claim for anything because an idea cannot be copyrighted. Your first mistake was sharing your ideas with others you KNEW were writers.
Next time you have an idea, bounce it off someone you can trust or just keep it to yourself until you have an agent.
Answer:
There isn't any way to protect a "concept" anyway, so I wouldn't worry about it. If the character names are the same as in your book, then that's one thing, but just the concept itself is not protectable under copyright.