Frequently asked questions

Entrusting your family history for publication

 

Do I have to pay to have my story published?

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No.
The proposed program is based on a shared editorial commitment between Rencontre Réconciliation and SopaLangues.
The initial costs (support, writing, editorial work, proofreading, formatting, and digital publication) are covered entirely by the partner organizations.
The storyteller does not have to pay any upfront costs.
The only costs that may remain at their expense, if they so wish, are:

• the purchase of printed copies,

• the acquisition of digital versions.

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Why is this process free of charge for the witness?
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Because these stories are part of an effort to preserve memory, culture, and citizenship.
The goal is not to make witnesses bear the cost of publication, but to enable the expression of stories that have often been silenced for a long time, without financial barriers.
 

Who is writing the story?

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The text is written by SopaLangues, based on your testimony.
Depending on the format chosen:

• a guided questionnaire may be proposed,

• or in-depth interviews may be conducted.

The writing faithfully reflects your words, your sensibilities, and the framework we have defined together.
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Can I review the text before publication?

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Yes, systematically.
No story is published without:

• your careful proofreading,

• the consideration of your comments,

• and your final written approval.

These choices are defined at the start of the project and formalized in writing.

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Who owns the copyright to the story?

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The written text constitutes a written work.
As such, the copyright of the text belongs to SopaLangues, which is responsible for its writing and editing.
The storyteller:

• is recognized as a witness and source of the story,

• retains moral rights over their personal story (respect for the meaning, intention, and words conveyed),

• approves the text before publication.

The terms of distribution (publication, translations, educational or cultural uses) are contractually regulated within a transparent framework.

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Can the story be altered or fictionalized?

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It depends on the format chosen:

• faithful account: strict adherence to the facts and what was said,

• fictionalized biography: narrative writing, without betraying the essence of the story.

The framework is defined with you before work begins.

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Where and how will the story be broadcast?

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Publications can take various forms:

• individual eBooks,

• more substantial works,

• collective thematic anthologies.

Distribution is part of the cultural and editorial activities carried out by Rencontre Réconciliation and SopaLangues.
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Can the story be translated?

 

Yes, some stories may be translated, particularly from a European perspective.
All translations are subject to your prior approval.
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Can I interrupt the project?

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Yes.
As long as the publication is not contractually binding, you can terminate the process.
Respect for the witness always takes precedence.

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How to get started?

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An initial, no-obligation discussion allows us to evaluate together:

• the nature of your story,

• the most suitable format,

• the terms of publication

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