Tater Tot Sunday Publishing

Origin Story

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I wrote a poem called “The Upside-down Fish” and turned it into a story/coloring book, then I sent it out to major publishers. I never heard back from any of them. But, it wasn’t long before I noticed a book with the same title. I looked into its pages and saw that it was unmistakably plagiarized from my story; they hadn’t changed it enough to hide the fact. With legal counsel beside me, I contacted the publishing house and was given a run-around about specifics of copyright, which was all blah blah blah considering they didn't even try to hide the fact that they plagiarized it. So, I decided to self-publish. It was a thorny road of poverty and learning. Eventually, I wanted to do more. I did not enjoy the feeling of self-promotion. I wanted to do more for others. With our powers combined, my painter wife and I created a new publishing studio. As we built it from vapor, we wondered what to call it… On Sundays, after the children are taught their genealogy, we gather with family to let them play and let ourselves relax while making an endless array of dinner recipes centered on potatoes. It came to be known as Tater Tot Sunday.    

 

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- Richard MacNeill   

Co-founder, Chief Editor

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Post Script: I refuse to slander the entire company who stole my story, as I am sure the decision was made by only a few thieves and not the whole of the publishing house. As they are business-bound to protect themselves against any legal follies, I do not begrudge them their complicity in the crime, either. However, I will not remain silent on their doorstep. If anyone were to ask my opinion, which I note they’re not, I would advise them to strongly consider the mucky dishonesty lurking within the submissions department.