MY BOOK IS NEARING PUBLICATION . . . It was about two years ago that I wrote about the way my two weblogs led directly to a book deal with James Publishing. That post was called "Multi-Tasking Weblogger Gets Book Deal." At the time, I wasn't allowed to give away the title of the book or even the topic, other than to say it concerned "an aspect of civil litigation."

That changed about a month ago, when I gave more details in my latest podcast, "Advanced Deposition Techniques--Part 1." Now I'm ready to put the details into writing, since the marketing materials are finished and readers of Trial magazine will be receiving a lengthy brochure about the book shrink-wrapped with an upcoming issue.

The book is called Deposition Checklists and Strategies. For anyone interested in learning more about what's in the book, you can read the brochure here (pdf). The cost is $99, which also includes the book's full contents on a searchable CD. Ordering information is here. The book will be updated annually; the cost will be $69.

As for the writing style, it's similar to what you'll find at the Illinois Trial Practice Weblog. If you like the weblog, you'll probably like the book, keeping in mind that the book is intended mostly for plaintiffs' lawyers, which isn't true of the weblog. If you aren't familiar with the weblog, you can take a look at my collected deposition posts to get a feel for how I think about depositions. Of course, other than the writing style, there is little overlap between the book and the weblog. The vast bulk of the book is completely new. Any ideas that appeared first at the weblog were in most cases reworked and rewritten.

And that's the news about the book. For all fans of depositions like me--or even those who have had only horrible deposition experiences, like my very first one about sixteen years ago--I hope you like it!*

*A concluding note. One of the nice things about the book is that its author, as a weblog proprietor, is very accessible. That means I'll be ready and eager to hear any comments, criticisms, or suggestions for future yearly updates. If you want something added, I'll add it. If you have a new perspective on a topic, I'll consider changing mine. Think of the book as a weblog (that's updated every year, not every day).

Comments

[david giacalone]

Congratulations on attracting and completing a big assignment. The brochure makes a very good impression (as does the male model you got to sit in for your photo). I also want to congratulate p/i plaintiffs, who will surely be able to take advantage of their lawyer's quicker preparation time by negotiating lower contingency fees.

[Jonathan]

Evan -

Congratulations. It looks like you put a ton of time and thought into this. Every attorney can learn something, even those who don't practice and choose to sit on the sidelines and take potshots at you. I can't think of a finer person to write this book and James Publishing made a great choice.

Jonathan

[Dave!]

Congrats!! It looks like it must have been quite an undertaking...

One question, though... T? :)

[Evan]

Dave! -- T's for "Thomas."

[Jennifer]

Evan, congratulations! I'm really looking forward to the book, which is just what new practitioners like me need! I am constantly amazed at the dearth of practical information available to help struggling new lawyers. So at least now I'll be a pro at depos in no time!