Until recently, General Books has been a private society of preeminent
authors collaborating with executive patrons to create works of
significant literary merit. As interest grew, a common sentiment arose
that the society should play an active role in standardizing the
transactions between member authors and patrons, and establish
criteria as to whom should do business with whom and on what terms.

Author membership is by invitation only to those of significant
literary merit. Full members have sold at least 10,000 copies within
the past five years. Junior members have sold at least 5000 copies
within the pas five years.  Additionally, it must be determined by the
society that the author has the integrity, commitment and discipline
to carry out his/her obligations to patrons.

Patrons must demonstrate that they have the personal and/or
professional merit, discipline, sophistication and economic resources
to complete the project and to collaborate successfully with a
professional author.