Permission when writing about others?

If in my book I want to write about someone. Do I need their permission? Like if I want to talk about Joe Smith, who started ABC company and did well and would be a great example to talk about. Do I need Joe Smith's permission to talk about him? I'm not going to make any speculations about him. Just write about facts. Joe smith is telling me I do.

This is a subjective line which is a matter of opinion. I had to buy some books on this matter, one which I found valuable was

The Copyright Permission and Libel Handbook
A Step-by-Step guide for Writers, Editors, and Publishers

by Lloyd Jassin

Must read for any author.

To answer your question, anything you write about someone is litigable unless they are a public official ... the book tries to explain the gray area. Bottomline, anything can be challenged, what you say is fact, they might say is a blurring of fact. Truth is always a defense to libel but that truth can be questioned.

Why won't he give you permission?

I've seen some bios that just state that they are unauthorized. I would think that would help skirt some of the potential legal issues.