For those wondering why large portions of science fiction writer Isaac Asimov’s voluminous backlist remain unavailable, a recent dispute between the author’s estate and Trident Media Group may provide a partial answer. The case is also worth watching for any literary agency based in New York (or with New York clients) that has an automatic renewal clause. The essence of the dispute is this: The Asimov estate, overseen by his widow Janet and daughter Robyn, sought to terminate their representation agreement with Trident in November 2013 after 5 years of working together. TMG told them they would have to wait until the expiration […]