Permission - complicated? (moved from Christian)

In writing my first (non-fiction) book, I am discovering the difficulties of permissions. I am wanting to use a summary of an article by one author in the introduction of another author’s book. I have contacted the publisher. But my questions are:
1. Did the book author need permission from the publisher of the article? How about from the author of the article (In this case he is deceased, so his estate)? 2. If so, will I need them for my book?
3. Do you need permission to summarize something you read and publish it? What if specific details are eliminated? Can you say "I read an article this morning about a young woman who" - do you need permissions anyway?
Sometimes, I find it pretty hard to even ask (e.g. old posting in forums).

I've read several articles on permissions, but haven't found anything on these questions. Advise?

Permissions - complicated?

Thanks for the answers and the redirection to nonfiction. What specifically I am talking about is a short story. But I am wanting to work out the principles of permission for testimonies as well. I also may want to reference a scene or character in a movie. I appreciate proper direction before I get myself in trouble. :{)}

Permission - complicated?

Sorry for the confusion. The original article is a fictional short story, but the summary of this story I'm wanting to use is from a non-fiction. I am also writing a non-fiction. Now you may get why permission gets complicated.