Read for Relief

TOTALS, or: you guys are amazing!

2011-09-29T13:01:00.001-04:00

$10,869

Yup. That's how much we raised in just ten days of bidding. You guys have been absolutely phenominal.

Another big thank you to all our donors. Without their generous item donations, this auction would not have happened. And thank you again, bidders, for your amazing bids. If you could see the emails we sent to each other over these last few days it wouldn't even begin to sum up how floored we are by your generosity. Which may be just as well. Most of those emails didn't even make sense. It was basically a lot of this: omg, !!!, *faints*, can you believe this?!

The writing community is truly a wonderful one. Perhaps we shouldn't have been so surprised. :)

Hurricane Irene now seems like a distant memory to those of us that were lucky enough to avoid damage, but in some places, the recovery is going to be slow and steady. If you would still like to donate to the Red Cross, we encourage you to do so directly.

Thank you again. We'd say "see you next time," but that would mean another disaster, and we are all hoping that won't be necessary.

A Big Thank You!

2011-09-21T22:15:00.000-04:00

10 days of bidding...
Over 70 auction items...
And over 700 bids...

The Read for Relief auction has now come to a close!

We'd like to give all of you a big THANK YOU for donating items, bidding on items, and spreading the word about the auction! We've been humbled by the response we've received, and we are so grateful for your patience and support. We couldn't have done any of this without you guys!

So thank you, thank you for helping us raise funds for Hurricane Irene relief! We know the proceeds will go toward helping the victims still recovering from the storm's aftermath.

Stay tuned for a full recap post, including how much the auction raised for the American Red Cross!

Day 6, Item 13: Signed Books and See Your Name in MIND GAMES

2011-09-19T00:13:00.000-04:00

From YA author Kiersten White:

Win a signed hardcover copy of Paranormalcy AND Supernaturally, plus your name (first and last) in MIND GAMES, Kiersten's upcoming winter 2013 novel!

A note from Kiersten: "The name will be a name drop only, NOT a character in the novel. I retain veto rights. For example, you can't make up a silly name like Fanny McFannypants and expect me to use it. (Besides which, Fanny McFannypants is the MC in another one of my novels.) (Not really.) If you don't want it to be your name, I would be open to it being, say, your MC's name or your daughter's name or something fun like that. So, to sum up: Your name in my book. One chance only!

Note: This item is open to U.S. and international bidders.

Kiersten White is the New York Times bestselling author of the Paranormalcy series. She consumes superhuman amounts of sugar and writes like a woman possessed. Future books include MIND GAMES in winter 2013, FLOOD AND STONE in fall 2013, and a couple other books in 2014 as well. Assuming she has access to enough sugar. She also blogs at kierstenwrites.blogspot.com, tweets regularly, and loathes facebook.

Learn more about Kiersten on her blog, on Facebook, and on Twitter.

This item will close on Wednesday, September 21. Highest bid timestamped 10PM (EST) or earlier wins.

Day 6, Item 12: Signed copy of LIKE MANDARIN and a Query/Partial Critique

2011-09-19T00:12:00.000-04:00

From YA author Kirsten Hubbard:

Win a signed copy of Like Mandarin, swag from various authors, and a query + first three pages critique.

Note: Open to U.S. and Canadian bidders only.

A travel writer and young adult author, Kirsten Hubbard has hiked ancient ruins in Cambodia, dived with wild dolphins in Belize (one totally looked her in the eye), slept in a Slovenian jail cell, and navigated the Wyoming badlands (without a compass) in search of transcendent backdrops for her novels. She graduated from UCSD with a B.A. in Writing. When she’s not off wandering, she lives in San Diego, California. Her debut YA novel, Like Mandarin, will be published by Delacorte Press/Random House on March 8th, 2011. Her second novel, Wanderlove, will be published in spring 2012.Learn more about Kirsten on her blog and on Twitter.

This item will close on Wednesday, September 21. Highest bid timestamped 10PM (EST) or earlier wins.

Day 6, Item 11: Signed copy of MATCHED and an ARC of CROSSED

2011-09-19T00:11:00.000-04:00

From Penguin Group:

Win a signed copy of MATCHED and a galley of CROSSED by Ally Condie.

Note: This item is open to U.S. and international bidders.

Penguin Group (USA) Inc. is also a global leader in children's publishing, through its Young Readers Group, with preeminent imprints such as Dial Books, Dutton, Grosset & Dunlap, Philomel, Puffin, Speak, Firebird, G. P. Putnam's Sons, Razorbill, Viking, and Frederick Warne. These imprints are home to Laurie Halse Anderson, Frank Beddor, Judy Blume, Jan Brett, Eric Carle, Roald Dahl, Tomie dePaola, John Green, Eric Hill, Anthony Horowitz, Brian Jacques, Mike Lupica, Richard Peck, Patricia Polacco, and dozens of other popular authors. Penguin Young Readers Group is also proud of perennial favorites such as The Little Engine That Could and the Nancy Drew and Hardy Boys series.

Learn more about the Penguin Group at their website and on Twitter.

This item will close on Wednesday, September 21. Highest bid timestamped 10PM (EST) or earlier wins.

Day 6, Item 10: Signed Copy of HOURGLASS and book swag

2011-09-19T00:10:00.000-04:00

From YA author Myra McEntire:

Win a signed copy of HOURGLASS, a pin with the cover, and a signed poster.

ETA: Myra will also throw in an ARC of Book 2 (a sequel to HOURGLASS)! This will be mailed out on February 14th, or whenever Myra receives her ARCs.

Note: This item is open internationally.

Myra McEntire knows the words to every R&B hit of the last decade, but since she lives in Nashville, the country music capital of America, her lyrical talents go sadly unappreciated. She’s chosen, instead, to channel her “mad word skills” into creating stories infused with her love of music. Her young adult book, HOURGLASS, debuted in June.

Learn more about Myra at her blog and on Twitter.

This item will close on Wednesday, September 21. Highest bid timestamped 10PM (EST) or earlier wins.

Day 6, Item 9: 50-Page Critique

2011-09-19T00:09:00.001-04:00

From YA writers Jenny Martin and April Tucholke:

A critique of the first 50 pages of your MG or YA manuscript.

Update: If bidding breaks $100, Jenny and April will throw in a query critique, too!

Jenny Martin writes YA about dark, tender, and trippy stuff. (She's so not kidding about interstellar street racers and con-artist ghosts). She's represented by Sara Crowe at Harvey Klinger Agency. She is also a school librarian, a baker, and a certified Beatle-maniac. As a librarian, she's a member of ALA, TLA, and AASL. As a writer, she's a member of DFW Writer’s Workshop. As a Beatle-maniac Baker, she belongs to the imaginary Fab Four Stickybuns Society.

April Genevieve Tucholke is a YA writer who digs dark, smart, scary things. She knew how to shoot a rifle by the time she was ten. Her favorite book might be JONATHAN STRANGE & MR NORRELL, or maybe JANE EYRE. She lives in the sunny shadow of the Cascades in Bend, Oregon, and is represented by Joanna Volpe at Nancy Coffey Literary Agency.

Learn more about Jenny at her blog and on Twitter. Learn more about April on her website.

This item will close on Wednesday, September 21. Highest bid timestamped 10PM (EST) or earlier wins.

Day 6, Item 8: Mega Critique from YA Highway

2011-09-19T00:08:00.003-04:00

From the gals at YA Highway:

A Mega Pack of Critiques
At least two members each will critique:
- A query letter
- A synopsis, and
- a 30-page partial MS!

We're a group of young adult authors from all over the world. come join us on our global road trip as we read, write, and adore all things YA!

Learn more about YA Highway at their blog and on Twitter.

This item will close on Wednesday, September 21. Highest bid timestamped 10PM (EST) or earlier wins.

Day 6, Item 7: A signed copy of WHAT WAR? TESTIMONIES OF MAYA SURVIVORS

2011-09-19T00:07:00.000-04:00

From Author Laurie Levinger

A signed copy of WHAT WAR? TESTIMONIES OF MAYA SURVIVORS, the story of Maya young adults reflecting on their experiences during the 36 year- long Guatemalan civil war.

Also, a copy of ROSA'S CHILDREN, the story of five orphans in the highlands of Guatemala, written in Spanish and English and illustrated by Guatemalan artist Carlos Chavez.

Laurie Levinger is a retired clinical social worker turned writer. Her books include: WHAT WAR? TESTIMONIES OF MAYA SURVIVORS and a memoir, JUST A DROPPED STITICH. A new book, LOVE AND REVOLUTIONARY GREETING: AN OHIO BOY DURING THE SPANISH CIVIL WAR will be published in the near future.

Learn more about Laurie at her website.

Note: Open to U.S. and international bidders.

This item will close on Wednesday, September 21. Highest bid timestamped 10PM (EST) or earlier wins.

Day 6, Item 6: Two Books by Leanna Renee Hieber

2011-09-19T00:06:00.000-04:00

From YA author Leanna Renee Hieber

Win one author copy of DARKER STILL: A Novel of Magic Most Foul along with author swag, and winner's choice of any book from the STRANGELY BEAUTIFUL series.

Note: Leanna will receive DARKER STILL sometime in October.

Leanna is an actress, playwright and the award-winning, bestselling author of the Strangely Beautiful series of Gothic Victorian Fantasy novels. The Strangely Beautiful Tale of Miss Percy Parker hit Barnes & Noble's Bestseller lists, won the 2010 Prism Awards for Best Fantasy Romance and Best First Book, and has been optioned for musical theatre adaptation currently in development. Her YA Gothic Victorian debut, DARKER STILL: A Novel of Magic Most Foul, releases 11/8/11 from Sourcebooks Fire. A member of performer unions AEA, SAG and AFTRA she lives in New York City and works often in film and television.

Learn more about Leanna at her website, her blog, on Facebook, and on Twitter.

Note: Open to U.S. bidders only.

This item will close on Wednesday, September 21. Highest bid timestamped 10PM (EST) or earlier wins.

Day 6, Item 5: Editorial Gift Certificates

2011-09-19T00:05:00.000-04:00

From Editor Cassandra Marshall:

TWO $35 gift certificates to editorcassandra.com, which can be used for a submissions package edit (query + first ten pages), a ten page partial edit, or a synopsis critique (up to four single spaced pages). Certificates can also be used towards the cost of a full edit or gifted to other writers.

Note: The top two bidders will win the certificates.

Cassandra Marshall is a freelance editor, lit agent intern, YA writer, and loves to play with her dog Mollie. She dreams of one day owning a small house near the water, preferably in England, with a shelf full of books she has written and has helped others to write. Her past clients have gone on to secure agents and many now have book deals. She wept like a baby the first time she held a client's finished and published book. She specializes in YA, but loves MG and unique adult books too.

Learn more about Cassandra at her writing website, her editing website, and on Twitter.

This item will close on Wednesday, September 21. Highest bid timestamped 10PM (EST) or earlier wins.

Day 6, Item 4: Editor Non-Fiction Proposal Critique

2011-09-19T00:04:00.000-04:00

From Editor Michele Wells:

Win a critique of your non-fiction proposal.

Michele Wells has fifteen years of experience in publishing, both in print and multimedia. Currently working as a senior editor for DK Publishing editing illustrated nonfiction for children and adults, she previously acquired adult nonfiction for McGraw-Hill and Penguin Group USA, and edited series nonfiction for children and young adults.

Learn more about Michele at her personal website, at the DK Publishing site, or on Twitter.

This item will close on Wednesday, September 21. Highest bid timestamped 10PM (EST) or earlier wins.

Day 6, Item 3: Agent Full Manuscript Critique

2011-09-19T00:03:00.000-04:00

From Agent Jennifer Laughran:

One Full Manuscript Critique from agent Jennifer Laughran of The Andrea Brown Literary Agency for a middle-grade or young-adult manuscript not to exceed 80,000 words.

An update (9/21): Jennifer is offering to critique the winning bidder's query as well!

Note: The winner of the auction will have one year from date of win to submit a manuscript. The winner will receive an editorial letter highlighting the manuscripts' strengths and opportunities within four weeks of submission. Please note this is not a line edit.

Jennifer Laughran has been an agent at Andrea Brown Literary Agency since 2007. She represents authors of YA and Children's books. Perhaps more importantly, though, she lives and works in Dutchess County, spitting distance from the Catskills, an area that was very much affected by Hurricane & Tropical Storm Irene.

Learn more about Jennifer at her blog, on Twitter, or the Andrea Brown Literary Agency website.

This item will close on Wednesday, September 21. Highest bid timestamped 10PM (EST) or earlier wins.

Day 6, Item 2: A copy of BEACH RENTAL

2011-09-19T00:02:00.000-04:00

From author Grace Greene:

Win a copy of Beach Rental, Grace's debut novel.

*Note: If the winner resides in the U.S., Grace will provide a trade paperback or e-book, according to the winner's preference. Outside of the U.S., Grace will donate her novel in e-format.

Grace Greene writes fiction with love, suspense and inspiration - always with a strong heroine at its heart. Beach Rental is her debut release.

Learn more about Grace at her website or follow her on Twitter.

This item will close on Wednesday, September 21. Highest bid timestamped 10PM (EST) or earlier wins.

Day 6: Item 1: Critique and Your Choice of Signed Book

2011-09-19T00:01:00.000-04:00

From YA writer Samantha Mabry

Win a query OR short story critique (up to three rounds of feedback - a limit of 20 pages for the story). I will also send you a personalized signed copy of a book from any of the authors (choose one) who are a doing a signing at the upcoming Austin Teen Book Festival.

Note: Open to U.S. bidders only.

Samantha Mabry is a young adult writer represented by Michelle Andelman of Regal Literary. Her short stories have been featured in WEIRDYEAR and H_NGM_N. In addition, Samantha teaches writing at the college level and is the moderator of Flash Paranormal Fiction which celebrates "short bursts of creepy creativity."

Learn more about Samantha at her blog, on Twitter, or at the Flash Paranormal Fiction website.

This item will close on Wednesday, September 21. Highest bid timestamped 10PM (EST) or earlier wins.

Day 5 Recap

2011-09-16T23:00:00.001-04:00

We sound like broken records now, but thank you, thank you, thank you! Another fabulous day's worth of auction items has closed, and that means more support for Irene victims via the Red Cross.

A quick note: No new auction items will be posted this weekend. Bidding on currently open items will remain open, with Day 4's items closing on Saturday, September 17, and Day 5's items closing on Sunday, September 18. Highest bid timestamped 10PM EST or earlier wins! Keep those bids coming, folks! You guys are amazing.

We will return for one final day of items on Monday.

And there will be some absolutely FANTASTIC things up for grabs next week, so don't forget to check back in. We'll be tweeting to remind everyone. Trust us, you will not want to miss these items!

Day 5, Item 14: Critique and PB Prize Pack

2011-09-16T00:14:00.000-04:00

From the Apocalypsies

The Apocalypsies have offered another mega prize pack, this time with for picture book writers. Prize pack includes:

a picture book manuscript critique by Ame Dyckman and Tiffany Strelitz Haberand

a copy of Audrey Vernick's TEACH YOUR BUFFALO TO PLAY DRUMS, signed and doodled on by the illustrator Daniel Jennewein, donated by Lenore Appelhans

ETA: a signed print from illustrator Monica Carnesi

The Apocalypsies is a group blog of 2012 debut authors who write for children and young adults. Learn more about the Apocalypsies on their blog and on Twitter.

This item will close on Sunday, September 18, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 5, Item 13: ARC of INCARNATE + Swag

2011-09-16T00:13:00.001-04:00

From author Jodi Meadows

Win one signed ARC of INCARNATE plus whatever stickers Jodi grabs when sealing the envelope!

and...

If the winning bid is above $50: Jodi will critique the first 1,000 words of a manuscript and add another 1,000 words every $10, up to 10,000 words. (You can also include a query in the total words.)

Note: this item is open internationally

Jodi Meadows lives and writes in the Shenandoah Valley, Virginia, with her husband, a Kippy*, and an alarming number of ferrets. She is a confessed book addict, and has wanted to be a writer ever since she decided against becoming an astronaut. INCARNATE will be released January 31, 2012 from HarperCollins/Katherine Tegen Books.
*A Kippy is a cat.

Learn more about Jodi on her website, and on Twitter.

This item will close on Sunday, September 18. Highest bid timestamped 10PM (EST) or earlier wins.

Day 5, Item 12: THE VESPERTINE prize pack

2011-09-16T00:12:00.001-04:00

From author Saundra Mitchell

Win a prize pack including a signed copy of THE VESPERTINE and a signed ARC of THE SPRINGSWEET. PLUS: a signed train pass, a Lover's Garden Seed Collection from American Meadows, classic tea collection from Tea Forté, and a lampwork bottle pendant.

Update: Saundra will give away an identical prize pack for free on her blog if bids go over $200. So keep the bids coming!

Saundra Mitchell is an author of YA novels including SHADOWED SUMMER, THE VESPERTINE, THE SPRINGSWEET, the forthcoming AETHERBORNE and MISTWALKER. She’s also the editor of the forthcoming YA anthology, DEFY THE DARK.

Learn more about Saundra on her website.

This item will close on Sunday, September 18. Highest bid timestamped 10PM (EST) or earlier wins.

Day 5, Item 11: Editor 10-Page Critique

2011-09-16T00:11:00.000-04:00

From HarperTeen Editor Kari Sutherland

Win a critique of the first 10 pages of your children's manuscript (YA, MG, chapter or picture book).

Kari Sutherland, Editor, HarperTeen - Kari lives in Northeastern New Jersey and can now attest to just how high the river near her house comes after a hurricane. While she and her library of books are lucky enough to be above that line, she is thrilled to be a part of this auction to help those who were more directly impacted by Hurricane Irene. Kari has spent the past four years at HarperCollins Children's where she works primarily on YA novels including the #1 New York Times bestselling Pretty Little Liars series by Sara Shepard, Firelight by Sophie Jordan, and Desires of the Dead by Kimberly Derting.

Kari is brand new to Twitter, but once she gets used to it she will begin tweeting like mad. Or, more accurately, once a week.

This item will close on Sunday, September 18. Highest bid timestamped 10PM (EST) or earlier wins.

Day 5, Item 10: Partial Critique

2011-09-16T00:10:00.000-04:00

From author Elizabeth Miles

Elizabeth will critique 20-30 pages of the winning bidder's manuscript.

Elizabeth Miles is the author of FURY, the debut YA novel recently published by Simon Pulse. FURY is a paranormal thriller with a pinch of horror and a dash of contemporary realism, all flavored with a soupcon of Greek mythology. Elizabeth grew up in Chappaqua, New York, and graduated cum laude from Boston University in 2004. Today, she lives in Portland, Maine, and writes for an alternative weekly newspaper. The sequels in the Fury series - ENVY and ETERNITY - are in the works.

Learn more about Elizabeth on her website, her book's series site, and on Twitter.

This item will close on Sunday, September 18. Highest bid timestamped 10PM (EST) or earlier wins.

Day 5, Item 9: Signed Galley of LOLA AND THE BOY NEXT DOOR

2011-09-16T00:09:00.000-04:00

From author Stephanie Perkins

Win a signed galley of LOLA AND THE BOY NEXT DOOR, plus a signed ANNA AND THE FRENCH KISS bookmark.

Note: This item is U.S. only

Stephanie Perkins is the author of ANNA AND THE FRENCH KISS. Her second novel, LOLA AND THE BOY NEXT DOOR, is due out from Dutton at the end of this month and her third, ISLA AND THE HAPPILY EVER AFTER, will be available in 2012.

Learn more about Stephanie on her website, blog, and on Twitter.

This item will close on Sunday, September 18. Highest bid timestamped 10PM (EST) or earlier wins.

Day 5, Item 8: 50-Page Critique

2011-09-16T00:08:00.000-04:00

From author Talli Roland

Win a 50-page critique and copy edit of your manuscript from Talli. Manuscript should be women's fiction, chick lit, YA, or romance.

When she's not slurping coffee or wine, Talli Roland writes humorous romantic fiction. Her debut novel, THE HATING GAME (Prospera Publishing), is in stores now. WATCHING WILLOW WATTS is due out in Nov 2011.

Learn more about Talli on her website, blog, and on Twitter.

This item will close on Sunday, September 18. Highest bid timestamped 10PM (EST) or earlier wins.

Day 5, Item 7: ARCs of HOW TO SAVE A LIFE and THE SCORPIO RACES

2011-09-16T00:07:00.000-04:00

From writer (and fellow Read for Read Organizer) Sarah Enni

Win ARC editions of Sara Zarr's HOW TO SAVE A LIFE and Maggie Stiefvater's THE SCORPIO RACES. Note: This item is US only.

Sarah is an aspiring YA author and contributor to YA Highway. She believes that books are pretty powerful things, and thinks this auction proves that on many levels.

Learn more about Sarah on her website, and on Twitter.

This item will close on Sunday, September 18. Highest bid timestamped 10PM (EST) or earlier wins.

Day 5, Item 6: Your Own Grisly (and Fictional) Death

2011-09-16T00:06:00.000-04:00

From author Dan Wells

Win Your Own Grisly Death (Fictional Edition) All your life you've longed to be immortalized in art, and now your time has come. The winner of this auction will appear, by name, in one of Dan Wells's books, where he or she will be brutally and creatively murdered. Generations of eager bibliophiles and/or forensic pathologists will read your name and wonder how anyone could end up so amazingly dead.

Highest bidder will be contacted for information, such as; first and last name, age, gender, height, eye and hair color and any other information that may be requested from the author.

Dan Wells is the author of several supernatural thrillers, including I AM NOT A SERIAL KILLER, MR. MONSTER, and I DON’T WANT TO KILL YOU. He is a co-host on the podcast Writing Excuses, for which he has won two Parsec awards; his podcast has been nominated for a Hugo this year, and Dan has been nominated for a Campbell award for best new writer. He plays a lot of games, reads a lot of books, and eats a lot of food, which is pretty much the ideal life he imagined for himself as a child.

Learn more about Dan on his website, facebook page, and on Twitter, or listen to his podcast.

This item will close on Sunday, September 18. Highest bid timestamped 10PM (EST) or earlier wins.

Day 5, Item 5: Query + First Chapter Critique

2011-09-16T00:05:00.000-04:00

From author Kris Waldherr

Win a critique of your query letter and first chapter (historical or literary novel manuscript). This critique will include inline comments.

Kris Waldherr is a much-published author, illustrator, and designer whose art has been exhibited in the National Museum of Women in the Arts. She is the author of DOOMED QUEENS: ROYAL WOMEN WHO MET BAD ENDS (Broadway/Doubleday), THE LOVER'S PATH, and THE BOOK OF GODDESSES (Abrams), and creator of The Goddess Tarot which has over 200,000 copies in print.

Learn more about Kris on her website, and on Twitter.

This item will close on Sunday, September 18, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 5, Item 4: Set of 24 Note Cards

2011-09-16T00:04:00.000-04:00

From Stephanie Ruble

Win a set of 24 note cards (4 each of 6 designs) featuring puppy dogs galore! Puppies that want to say hello, happy birthday, or entice you to look for rainbows (or maybe Superman). These cards are great for sending notes, or to say thank you, or even to give as a gift. Printed on bright white linen paper with matching envelopes. All cards have a caption on the outside and are blank on the inside.

Stephanie Ruble (a.k.a. sruble) is an author and artist. She has been drawing and painting ever since she could hold a crayon and making up stories since she learned to talk. She's currently making art and working on a project with a bunch of unruly chickens.

Learn more about Stephanie on her website, blog, and on Twitter.

This item will close on Sunday, September 18. Highest bid timestamped 10PM (EST) or earlier wins.

Day 5, Item 3: Signed copy of SWEET TEA AND SECRETS

2011-09-16T00:03:00.000-04:00

From author Nancy Naigle

Win a signed copy of Sweet Tea and Secrets along with a tagalong of Harney & Sons Tea (one of Nancy's favorite blends) and some sweet tea candy.

Nancy Naigle writes love stories from the crossroad of small town and suspense. After spending most of her life on the Virginia coast, she and her husband left the Virginia coast for greener pastures a little further inland in Southampton County. They now live on a 76 acre goat farm where Nancy spends every spare moment working on her next book. Her debut novel, Sweet Tea and Secrets, came out this summer. The second in her Adams Grove series, titled Out of Focus, will be out in November.

Learn more about Nancy on her website, blog, and on Twitter.

This item will close on Sunday, September 18. Highest bid timestamped 10PM (EST) or earlier wins.

Day 5, Item 2: 30-Page Group Critique

2011-09-16T00:02:00.000-04:00

From the gals at Tangled Up In Words:

A group critique of the first 30 pages (or 3 chapters) of a manuscript. Winner will get critiques from at least 4 of the Tangled Girls as well as our resident published author, Jennifer L. Armentrout (at least 5 in all).

We are 5 girls who write and decided to blog about it together! Our members include: Christina Ferko, Danielle Bunner, Patricia Osei, Cindy Thomas, and Drea Chapman. Tangled is a place where we can talk about the writing journey, about different aspects of writing, and (our biggest goal) build a community of writers. We need each other and we can learn so much from each other. That is why we are here.

Our Resident Published Author is Jennifer L. Armentrout, author of YA & Adult books including, HALF-BLOOD 10/18/2011 (Spencer Hill Press) and OBSIDIAN 12/2011 (Entangled).

Learn more about Tangled Up In Words at the blog or follow them on Twitter.

This item will close on Sunday, September 18. Highest bid timestamped 10PM (EST) or earlier wins.

Day 5, Item 1: Signed ARC of CROAK

2011-09-16T00:01:00.000-04:00

From author Gina Damico

Win a signed ARC of Gina's debut YA novel, Croak. She's also throwing in a small scythe pendant. (She promises sythes are integral to the story.)

Gina grew up under four feet of snow in Syracuse, New York. She received a degree in theater and sociology from Boston College, where she was active with the Committee for Creative Enactments, the country’s only collegiate murder mystery improv comedy troupe, which may or may not have sparked an interest in wildly improbable bloodshed. Croak is her first novel. Gina lives in Boston with her husband, two cats, and a closet full of black hoodies.

Learn more about Gina on her website, blog, and on Twitter.

This item will close on Sunday, September 18. Highest bid timestamped 10PM (EST) or earlier wins.

Fourth Day Recap

2011-09-15T20:00:00.006-04:00

Wow, guys, you’ve blown us away with your bids. A giant-sized thank you to everyone who donated items for the auction and to everyone whose bidding is helping us raise funds for those in need. Keep those bids coming!

Just a little note: All items from Day 2 of the auction are closing TONIGHT at 10:00PM EST.

That’s two hours from right now. So hurry up with those bids to win critiques from HarperCollins Children’s Book editor Sarah Dotts Barley, Operation Awesome writers, and agent Joanna Volpe. Don't forget the books still up for grabs: THE NEAR WITCH, A NEED SO BEAUTIFUL, four LGBT YA books, and more! They're all so excited to have your bids. Really.

Don’t forget to check in tomorrow when we will auction off items like a signed galley of LOLA AND THE BOY NEXT DOOR, a 50-page critique from author Tali Rolland, a signed ARC of INCARNATE and (if bidding goes high enough) a partial manuscript critique from author Jodi Meadows, and a 10-page critique from HarperTeen editor Kari Sutherland!

But wait, there’s more!

That’s right, Read for Relief has been such a success—thanks to all of your generous donations and bids—that we’ve decided to extend the auction until Monday. Here’s the deal:

Friday’s auction items will close on Sunday, as planned.
We’re taking the weekend off, but we’ll be back Monday with what we consider is an auction day constructed out of pure awesomeness. (Don’t worry, we’ll drop some hints tomorrow. For now, just know that you want to stay tuned. Trust us.)

Today's items will remain open to bidding until Saturday at 10:00PM EST.

Day 4 Is Now Open!

2011-09-15T01:51:00.001-04:00

First, thank you so much for your lovely bids to the Read for Relief auction! We've been amazed by the response so far, and we are so excited to generate more proceeds for the American Red Cross.

If this is your first time visiting the Read for Relief auction, welcome! To recap how the auction works:

To place a bid, simply leave a comment.
There is a minimum starting bid of $10.
Include your bid in US dollar ($) amounts along with your email address so we can contact you if you win.
Please use comments only for bidding.
Bidders will have three days to bid in the comments of an item. (Thursday's items will close on Saturday at 10:00PM EST.)

For more information on the auction, please visit our How It Works page.

Happy bidding!

Note: We are still taking donations for the auction if you'd like to give something! (A book, an ARC, a critique...basically anything publishing-related.) To donate, please fill out this form. Thank you!

Day 4, Item 14: Agent Query Critique

2011-09-15T00:14:00.001-04:00

From agent Kristin Miller

Win a query critique.

Kristin Miller is a literary agent at D4EO Literary Agency representing Picture Books, Middle Grade & Young Adult novels. She is also a music fiend & haunter of Seattle cafes and happy hours.

Learn more about Kristin on Twitter.

This item will close on Saturday, September 17, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 4, Item 13: Signed Copy of FREEFALL

2011-09-15T00:13:00.002-04:00

From author Mindi Scott

Win a signed copy of FREEFALL.

Mindi Rochelle Scott lives near Seattle, Washington, USA with her drummer husband in a house with a non-sound-proof basement. FREEFALL, her first novel, was published in 2010. Her second novel, LIVE THROUGH THIS, is scheduled for release by Simon Pulse in fall of 2012.

Learn more about Mindi on her website.

This item will close on Saturday, September 17, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 4, Item 12: Editor 10-Page Critique

2011-09-15T00:12:00.001-04:00

From HarperCollins Children’s Book editor Sarah Sevier

Win a critique of the first 10 pages of your children’s manuscript (YA, MG, chapter or picture book)

Sarah Sevier is an Editor at HarperCollins Children's Books, where her primary focus is on middle grade and teen fiction. Sarah has worked with a talented group of authors such as Ben H. Winters, R.L. Stine, Thanhha Lai, Peter Hannan, Erin Hunter, author of the New York Times bestselling Seekers series, and Pittacus Lore, author of the New York Times bestselling I AM NUMBER FOUR and THE POWER OF SIX. Upcoming projects include the middle grade novel THE MYSTERY OF THE MISSING EVERYTHING by Ben H. Winters, and OTHERWORLD CHRONICLES: THE INVISIBLE TOWER by Nils-Johnson Shelton, the first book in an action-packed new series.

This item will close on Saturday, September 17, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 4, Item 11: 50-Page Critique

2011-09-15T00:11:00.002-04:00

From agent assistant Sarah Goldberg

Win a 50-page manuscript critique

Sarah Goldberg has interned for FinePrint Literary Management and Nancy Coffey Literary and worked as assistant to agent Suzie Townsend at FinePrint. When she is not gushing over client manuscripts or trawling the slush pile, she is working toward her PhD and teaching in the department of Latin American and Spanish Literature at Columbia University. She specializes in YA, MG, fantasy, and science fiction, but will be delighted to review a manuscript in any genre.

Learn more about Sarah on Twitter.

This item will close on Saturday, September 17, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 4, Item 10: Query Critique, 50-Page Critique, and POSSESSION prize package

2011-09-15T00:10:00.005-04:00

From author Elana Johnson

Win a query critique, 50-page critique of a YA manuscript, and a POSSESSION prize package including signed book and swag.

Note: This item is open to U.S. bidders only.

Elana Johnson’s debut novel, POSSESSION, published by Simon Pulse (Simon & Schuster), is available now everywhere books are sold. Her popular ebook, FROM THE QUERY TO THE CALL, is available for download. School teacher by day, Query Ninja by night, you can find her online at her personal blog or Twitter. She also co-founded the Query Tracker blog, and contributes to the League of Extraordinary Writers.

Learn more about Elana on her website.

This item will close on Saturday, September 17, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 4, Item 9: Signed First Edition of THE HOUR I FIRST BELIEVED, Signed Copy of KILL ME, and Barnes & Noble Membership

2011-09-15T00:08:00.002-04:00

From Jill Giordano

Win a signed first edition of THE HOUR I FIRST BELIEVED by Wally Lamb, a signed copy of KILL ME by Stephen White, and a Barnes & Noble membership.

Note: This item is open to U.S. bidders only.

Jill Giordano is a bookstore manager by trade and an unabashed bookworm at heart. She lives in Massachusetts, where she spends way too much time making sure books on the shelves stick out just the right amount.

This item will close on Saturday, September 17, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 4, Item 8: Signed ARC of BORN WICKED and ARC of CINDER

2011-09-15T00:07:00.010-04:00

From author Jessica Spotswood

Win a A signed ARC of BORN WICKED and an ARC of CINDER by Marissa Meyer.

Note: Open to both U.S. and international bidders

Jessica Spotswood is the author of BORN WICKED, Book 1 in The Cahill Witch Chronicles, coming Feb. 7, 2012 from Putnam. She hearts books, theatre, tea, twirly dresses, the color pink, and the sound of bells chiming the hour.

Learn more about Jessica at her website or on Twitter.

This item will close on Saturday, September 17, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 4, Item 7: 10-Page Critique

2011-09-15T00:06:00.001-04:00

From authors Miranda Kenneally and Robin Talley

Win a 10-page critique of a YA manuscript from both Miranda and Robin.

Robin Talley writes young adult fiction focusing on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender characters. She is represented by literary agent Jim McCarthy of Dystel & Goderich. You can reach her at her website, on her blog, or on Twitter.

Miranda Kenneally is the author of CATCHING JORDAN, a contemporary YA novel about football, femininity, and hot boys, coming in December 2011. Other books include PLAYING PARKER (fall 2012) and BAD, BAD THING (spring 2013). Miranda is the co-creator of Dear Teen Me. The Dear Teen Me Anthology will be published in late 2012. She enjoys reading and writing young adult literature, and loves Star Trek, music, sports, Mexican food, Twitter, coffee, and her husband. Learn more about her at her website, on Twitter or Facebook. Miranda is represented by Sara Megibow at Nelson Literary Agency.

This item will close on Saturday, September 17, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 4, Item 6: Signed Copy of THE JAGUAR STONES, Book 1 and 2

2011-09-15T00:05:00.004-04:00

From authors J&P Voelkel

Win signed copies of THE JAGUAR STONES, BOOK ONE: MIDDLEWORLD (paperback) and THE JAGUAR STONES, BOOK TWO: THE END OF THE WORLD CLUB (hardcover).

The winner will also receive a gift card with the first name of their choice inscribed in Maya glyphs.

J&P Voelkel used to work in advertising, but now they co-write and illustrate The Jaguar Stones books, published by Egmont USA. These are the first two books in a fast-paced and funny Maya-themed adventure series, set in the jungles of Central America. The perfect gift for boys and girls, ages 9 to 14. When they’re not writing, they’re usually exploring the jungles of the Maya, or visiting schools all over America. Appearances have included The Today Show, the Boston Museum of Science, KIDSlive! at the New York Public Library, and Kidlit at the San Francisco Public Library. They live with their three children in Vermont.

Learn more about J&P Voelkel at their website or on Twitter.

This item will close on Saturday, September 17, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 4, Item 5: Signed copy of VARIANT

2011-09-15T00:04:00.013-04:00

From author Robison Wells

Win a signed hardcover of VARIANT and a hard-copy of the revision, with annotated notes from the author, if you're interested in peeking at those! You’ll also win a shout-out on the Appendix, a weekly podcast featuring writing advice, discussion of the industry and a look into the lives of authors, for your book, website, blog, or Twitter.

Note: This item is for U.S. bidders only.

Rob Wells is the author of the upcoming YA dystopian-ish novel, VARIANT, which will be released October 18, 2011 from HarperTeen. He also runs a weekly podcast with writers Sarah Eden and Marion Jensen.

Find out more about Robison on his website and on Twitter.

This item will close on Saturday, September 17, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 4, Item 4: Typewriter Key Necklace

2011-09-15T00:03:00.006-04:00

From YA writer Christina Lee

Note: This item is for U.S. and Canadian bidders only.

Win a Typewriter Key Necklace from Christina’s Tags-n-Stones hand-stamped jewelry site. The necklace is sterling silver and comes with your choice of letter. You may also choose a Swarovski crystal or freshwater pearl (any color).

Christina Lee writes young adult fiction and creates hand-stamped jewelry. Learn more about Christina at her website and on Twitter. Find out more about her jewelry on the Tags-n-Stones website.

ETA: This item also comes with your choice of letter.

This item will close on Saturday, September 17, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 4, Item 3: 30-Page Critique

2011-09-15T00:02:00.002-04:00

From the Sisters in Scribe

The Sisters in Scribe are offering to each critique the first 30 pages of the manuscript of the winning bidder. That’s three thorough crits for one manuscript! Since we all write YA, this prize is for YA and upper MG manuscripts only, in any genre. (Contemporary, sci-fi, paranormal, dystopian, fantasy—you name it!)

Sisters in Scribe is made up of YA writers (and crit parnters) Kristi Helvig, Valerie Kemp, and Lacey (L.J.) Boldyrev. They blog about all things writing. Learn more about the Sisters in Scribe on their blog.

This item will close on Saturday, September 17, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 4, Item 2: Signed copy of THE PEA IN PEANUT BUTTER

2011-09-15T00:01:00.004-04:00

From author Allyn Stotz

Win a signed copy of THE PEA IN PEANUT BUTTER and a doggy bag containing a bookmark, magnet, reading journal and a few items from Louisiana in it.

Allyn is a children’s book writer who has a deep love for a child’s imagination, honesty, and zest for life. Writing picture books allows her to become a child all over again. Although she has no “human” children of her own, she draws her inspiration from co-workers children, nieces and nephews, and of course her “cat and dog” children. Allyn has been published in various children’s magazines but THE PEA IN PEANUT BUTTER, published by FutureWord Publishing, is her first children’s picture book.

Learn more about Allyn at her website.

This item will close on Saturday, September 17, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 4, Item 1: Signed Copy of ALEX

2011-09-15T00:00:00.006-04:00

From author Dianne Hartsock

Win a signed copy of ALEX.

Note: This item is for U.S. bidders only.

Dianne Hartsock lives the beautiful Willamette Valley of Oregon with her husband. Currently, she’s working as a floral designer in a locally owned gift shop. Which is the perfect job for her. When not writing, she expresses herself through the rich colors and textures of flowers and foliage.

Learn more about Dianne at her website, on Facebook, and on Twitter.

This item will close on Saturday, September 17, at 10:00PM EST.

Third Day Recap

2011-09-14T20:00:00.000-04:00

Wow! Guys, your generosity is truly amazing. A huge thank you, both to our donors (who are so gracious), and our bidders (for continually laying down their bids!) What a fabulous third day at the Read for Relief auction!

We wanted to note that all items from Day 1 of the auction are closing TONIGHT at 10:00PM EST.
That's just two hours away, and you don't want to miss out on a chance to win a critique from HarperTeen editor Erica Sussman or agent Jim McCarthy. Plus there's all those books/ARCs, like SHATTER ME, CARRIER OF THE MARK, and ASHFALL, not to mention a handful of other awesome items. Maybe you'd like to head back a few pages, check out those items, and mark down your final bids. *nudge, nudge*

And be sure to check in tomorrow where we will have some awesome items up for grabs, including a query critique from agent Kristin Miller of D4EO, signed copies of VARIANT by Robison Wells (hardcover) and BORN WICKED by Jessica Spotswood (ARC), and a query + prize pack from Elana Johnson, author of POSSESSION!

Today's items will remain open to bidding until Friday at 10:00PM EST.

Day 3 Items Now Open!

2011-09-14T10:11:00.001-04:00

We've had such a fantastic response on Day 1 and Day 2 of the auction, and we are so excited to bring you a new batch of items here on Day 3!

If this is your first time visiting the Read for Relief auction, welcome! Here are how things work 'round these parts:

To place a bid, simply leave a comment.
There is a minimum starting bid of $10.
Include your bid in US dollar ($) amounts along with your email address so we can contact you if you win.
Please use comments only for bidding.
Bidders will have three days to bid in the comments of an item. (Wednesday's items will close on Friay at 10:00PM EST.)

For more information on the auction, please visit our How It Works page.

Happy bidding!

Day 3, Item 12: ARC of THE FUTURE OF US

2011-09-14T00:10:00.002-04:00

From Penguin Young Readers

Win an ARC of THE FUTURE OF US by Jay Asher and Carolyn Mackler.

Penguin Group (USA) Inc. is also a global leader in children's publishing, through its Young Readers Group, with preeminent imprints such as Dial Books, Dutton, Grosset & Dunlap, Philomel, Puffin, Speak, Firebird, G. P. Putnam's Sons, Razorbill, Viking, and Frederick Warne. These imprints are home to Laurie Halse Anderson, Frank Beddor, Judy Blume, Jan Brett, Eric Carle, Roald Dahl, Tomie dePaola, John Green, Eric Hill, Anthony Horowitz, Brian Jacques, Mike Lupica, Richard Peck, Patricia Polacco, and dozens of other popular authors. Penguin Young Readers Group is also proud of perennial favorites such as The Little Engine That Could and the Nancy Drew and Hardy Boys series.

Learn more about Penguin on their website, and on Twitter.

This item will close on Friday, September 16th, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 3, Item 11: Critique and YA ARC Prize Pack

2011-09-14T00:10:00.001-04:00

From the Apocalypsies

The Apocalypsies have offered a mega prize pack of critiques and YA ARCs:

15-page critiques from Jenny Torres Sanchez, Jay Kristoff, Kat Zhang, Debra Driza, Kimberly Sabatini, and McCormick Templeman

10-page + query critique from Nicole Maggi

1st chapter + query critique from Anne Greenwood Brown

YA ARCs: SLIDE, donated by the author, Jill Hathaway, Boy 21 by Matthew Quick and How to Save a Life by Sara Zarr, donated by Tiffany Schmidt, and TEMPEST by Julie Cross, donated by Elizabeth Norris

The Apocalypsies is a group blog of 2012 debut authors who write for children and young adults. Learn more about the Apocalypsies on their blog and on Twitter.

This item will close on Friday, September 16th, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 3, Item 10: Super Critique Pack

2011-09-14T00:10:00.000-04:00

From YA writers Pam Harris, Marquita Hockaday, Alicia Gregoire, Holly Dodson, Erinn Manack, and Katherine Owens

6 YA writers and critique partners come together to give you a critique package that will make your manuscript submission-ready. (NOTE: Manuscript must be YA and ready for critique by March 30, 2012.)

The package includes:

1 query critique: Pam Harris
1 synopsis critique (1-2 page limit): Holly Dodson
1 first pages critique (10-15 page limit): Marquita Hockaday
1 first 50 pages critique: Alicia Gregoire
1 full manuscript (up to 90K words) “in-depth” critique: Katharine Owens
1 full manuscript (up to 90K words) “big picture” critique: Erinn Manack

About the critiquers:

Pam Harris is a school counselor by day and YA writer by night. She is a contributor to Paper Hangover and is represented by the lovely Sarah LaPolla at Curtis Brown, Ltd. You can learn more about her on her blog and on Twitter.
Holly Dodson is Super Mom, YA writer, and eater of many Sweettarts. She is a contributor to Paper Hangover. You can learn more about her on her blog and on Twitter.
Marquita Hockaday is 20-something, constantly reading or writing YA, throwing in time to teach history to our youth (saving them essentially) while stalking the finest literary agents and Hollywood actors. You can learn more about her on her blog and on Twitter.
Alicia Gregoire writes edgy YA fiction while combating the machinations of her two cats. You can learn more about her on her blog and on Twitter.
Katharine Owens is a YA and MG writer, mom, professor, environmental nerd, amateur naturalist, and lover of all things bug. You can learn more about her on her blog and on Twitter.
Erinn Manack is a YA writer, middle school teacher, and a contributor to The Patch. She’s written five books but has beta read many more. You can learn more about her on her blog and on Twitter.

This item will close on Friday, September 16th, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 3, Item 9: Editor 10-Page Critique

2011-09-14T00:09:00.000-04:00

From editor Rachel Abrams

Win a critique of the first 10 pages of your children's manuscript (YA, MG, chapter or picture book).

Rachel Abrams is an assistant editor at HarperCollins Children's books. Since joining HarperCollins in 2007, she has worked closely with authors Avi, Neil Gaiman, Chris Lynch, Lemony Snicket, and Rachel Vail, as well as illustrators, Brett Helquist, Dave McKean, Charles Vess, Adam Rex, Maira Kalman, and Vladimir Radunsky. Rachel earned her Bachelor's degree at New York University and is a graduate of the Columbia Publishing Course. She currently works on books for teens, middle grade readers, and young readers.

This item will close on Friday, September 16th, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 3, Item 8: Signed ARC of THE VEIL

2011-09-14T00:08:00.000-04:00

From author Cory Putman Oakes

Win a signed ARC of THE VEIL.

Cory Putman Oakes was born in Basel, Switzerland, but grew up in Novato, California. In 2004, Cory graduated from Cornell Law School with a Juris Doctorate Degree and her husband, Mark (the first was the intended consequence of attending the school, the second was a bonus). Since then, she has been an associate at a big law firm, taught business law to undergraduates at Texas State University and written several books for young people.

Learn more about Cory at her website, and on Twitter.

This item will close on Friday, September 16th, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 3, Item 7: 30-Page Critique

2011-09-14T00:07:00.000-04:00

From author Ellen Oh

Win a 30-page critique for a YA manuscript.

Ellen Oh is a writer, lawyer, college instructor, donut-slayer, chocolate lover, and mother of three beautiful girls. Originally from Brooklyn, NY, she currently lives in Bethesda, MD (because her husband is afraid of New York City) and finds herself on a neverending quest to find a decent bagel. Her debut novel, Prophecy: The Dragon King Chronicles, Book 1, is being published by HarperCollins Childrens for release in Winter 2013. She is repped by the fantastic Joe Monti of the awesome Barry Goldblatt Agency.

Learn more about Ellen at her website, and on Twitter.

This item will close on Friday, September 16th, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 3, Item 6: SHUT OUT Audiobook

2011-09-14T00:06:00.001-04:00

From author Kody Kelpinger

Win an audiobook copy of Kody's SHUT OUT.

Note: This item is available for U.S. bidders only.

Kody was born and raised in rural western Kentucky, where she attended high school and began writing her first long pieces of fiction. Kody wrote THE DUFF during her senior year in high school. Kody is now twenty and lives in New York City, where she continues to write YA novels. SHUT OUT, her second novel, will be out in September 2011 and another, A MIDSUMMER'S NIGHTMARE, due in 2012..

Learn more about Kody at her website, and on Twitter.

This item will close on Friday, September 16th, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 3, Item 5: Agent Query Critique + 10-Page Critique

2011-09-14T00:05:00.000-04:00

From agent Sara Crowe

Win a critique of your query and first 10 pages.

Sara is a literary agent at Harvey Klinger, Inc. where she represents adult fiction and nonfiction and children's fiction. Her clients include NYT Bestselling authors Leslie Banks and Jonathan Maberry, Ben Dolnick, Nina LaCour, Michael Northrop, Lisa Schroeder, Kristen Tracy and Dan Wells.

Learn more about Sara at her website, and on Twitter.

This item will close on Friday, September 16th, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 3, Item 4: ARC of TO WALK THE NIGHT

2011-09-14T00:04:00.000-04:00

From author E.S. Moore

Win a signed ARC and cover flat of TO WALK THE NIGHT, Moore's adult urban fantasy.

NOTE: This item is US only

E.S. Moore is the author of TO WALK THE NIGHT, the first in an urban fantasy series due out from Kensington Publishing in January 2012. He is represented by Jim McCarthy of Dystel & Goderich Literary Management.

Learn more about E.S. Moore at his website, facebook page, and on Twitter.

This item will close on Friday, September 16th, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 3, Item 3: Signed Paperback of TORN + ARC of TANGLED

2011-09-14T00:03:00.000-04:00

From author Erica O'Rourke

Win a signed trade paperback of TORN and an ARC of the sequel, TANGLED, both of which will ship ASAP (which is a real treat -- TANGLED doesn't come out until February!)

Erica will also through in some swag (including bookmarks, trading cards, and a copy of the Notes from A Dead Girl postcards).

NOTE: This item is open internationally

Erica writes books about girls who make their own fate and fall for boys they shouldn't. Her debut, TORN, came out in July from K Teen/Kensington Books and the sequel, TANGLED will be available Februrary 2012.

Learn more about Erica at her website, and on Twitter.

This item will close on Friday, September 16th, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 3, Item 2: Query Critique & ARC Pack

2011-09-14T00:02:00.000-04:00

From writer Lindsey Roth Culli:

Win a query critique (to the point of it being pitch perfect or three rounds of back and forth) plus a grab bag of ARCs (including Legend by Marie Lu, The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater, and Tris & Izzie by Mette Ivie Harrison).

NOTE: ARCs are US only

Lindsey is a YA writer represented by Amy Tipton of Signature Literary Agency. She has an MFA in Creative Writing and she also interns for an agent.
She has great appreciation for the semicolon (and those who know how to use it), good coffee, and books.

Learn more about Lindsey at her website and on Twitter.

This item will close on Friday, September 16th, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 3, Item 1: 30-Page Critique

2011-09-14T00:01:00.000-04:00

From author Nova Ren Suma:

Win a 30-page critique (or the first two chapters) of a YA or middle-grade novel.

Nova Ren Suma is the author of the YA novel IMAGINARY GIRLS (Dutton) and the middle-grade novel DANI NOIR (Aladdin). She has an MFA in fiction from Columbia University and has been awarded fiction fellowships from the New York Foundation for the Arts, the MacDowell Colony, and Yaddo, and will be a resident artist at Djerassi this spring. She is originally from the Catskill Mountains and now lives in New York City.

Learn more about Nova at her website, blog, and on Twitter.

This item will close on Friday, September 16th, at 10:00PM EST.

Second Day Recap

2011-09-13T20:30:00.016-04:00

Whew! What a fantastic second day at the Read for Relief auction!

We are so grateful to the donors who graciously gave to the auction, and we are very, very thankful for your bids! (Keep 'em coming!) There will be a batch of new items posted tomorrow, but you can still bid on today's items until Thursday at 10:00PM EST.

A few housekeeping items:

Please remember to include your email address when you bid. This way, we can get in touch with you if you win!
If you'd like to donate to the auction, we are still taking items! Please fill out this form and we'll contact you once your item goes live. Thank you so much!
A blog reader pointed out yesterday that the American Red Cross donation page only accepts U.S. credit cards. Fortunately for our international participants, organizer Erin Bowman found a way around this! If you are an international bidder who wins an item, please choose "Amazon Payment" as your pay method on the Red Cross site. Then hit "Continue" and you will be redirected to Amazon where you may make your donation. (Thanks to Bec Sampson for bringing this up!)

Be sure to check in tomorrow where we will have some awesome items up for bid, including a query and 10-page critique from agent Sara Crowe, a group critique and ARCs from The Apocalypsies, and a 30-page critique from Nova Ren Suma, author of IMAGINARY GIRLS!

Day 2, Item 10: Query/First Chapter Critique and Signed Copy of A NEED SO BEAUTIFUL

2011-09-13T00:10:00.000-04:00

From YA writer Suzanne Young:

Win a signed copy of A NEED SO BEAUTIFUL, and a query/first chapter critique.

Suzanne Young is a brilliant scientist. Not really. But she is a former middle school teacher turned zookeeper (mother). When Suzanne’s not fending off zombie squirrels she can be found writing obsessively. Suzanne is the author of A NEED SO BEAUTIFUL and several other YA titles.

Learn more about Suzanne at her blog and on Twitter.

This item will close on Thursday, September 15th, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 2, Item 9: Editor 10-page Critique

2011-09-13T00:09:00.004-04:00

From editor Sarah Dotts Barley:

Win a critique of the first 10 pages of a children's manuscript (YA, MG, chapter or picture book) by associate editor at HarperCollins Children's Books, Sarah Dotts Barley.

Sarah Dotts Barley is an associate editor at HarperCollins Children's Books. Authors she works with include Georgia Byng, Holly Cupala, Gwendolyn Heasley, Geraldine McCaughrean, and with her editorial director, Donna Freitas and Joyce Carol Oates. Recent books that she has edited include DEAR BULLY: 70 AUTHORS TELL THEIR STORIES, edited by Megan Kelley Hall and Carrie Jones and DON'T BREATHE A WORD by Holly Cupala.

Learn more about Sarah Dotts Barley on Twitter.

This item will close on Thursday, September 15th, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 2, Item 8: Signed Copy of THE NEAR WITCH

2011-09-13T00:08:00.000-04:00

From YA writer Victoria Schwab:

Win a signed copy of THE NEAR WITCH.

Victoria is the product of a British mother, a Beverly Hills father, and a southern upbringing. Because of this, she has been known to say “tom-ah-toes”, “like”, and “y’all”. She also tells stories.

Learn more about Victoria Schwab at her website and on Twitter.

This item will close on Thursday, September 15th, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 2, Item 7: A 30-page Group Critique

2011-09-13T00:07:00.000-04:00

From writing group Operation Awesome:

Win a 30-page groupcritique from the six writers of Operation Awesome.

Operation Awesome is a group of authors in various stages of the publishing journey. On their blog, they share author interviews, book reviews, writing tips, book tours, and host a monthly Mystery Agent contest. Their goal is to strive for awesomeness... one word at a time.

Learn more about Operation Awesome at their blog and on Twitter.

This item will close on Thursday, September 15th, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 2, Item 6: Set of LGBT YA Books

2011-09-13T00:06:00.000-04:00

From writer Robin Talley:

Win a prize pack of four LGBT YA books:

LUNA by Julie Anne Peters
BOY MEETS BOY by David Levithan
I AM J by Cris Beam
ASH by Malinda Lo
* Items in this prize pack can be switched out for other queer YA novels if you already have any of these four. So no need to worry about duplicates!

Note: This item is open to U.S. bidders only.

Robin Talley writes young adult fiction focusing on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender characters. She is represented by literary agent Jim McCarthy of Dystel & Goderich.

Learn more about Robin Talley at her website and on Twitter.

This item will close on Thursday, September 15th, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 2, Item 5: Agent Query Critique

2011-09-13T00:05:00.000-04:00

From agent Joanna Volpe:

Win a query critique from agent Joanna Volpe with Nancy Coffey Literary & Media Representation, who represents authors like Veronica Roth, Kody Keplinger, and Lee Nichols.

Joanna is a literary agent with Nancy Coffey Literary & Media Representation. She represents a variety of children's and adult books, fiction and non-fiction.

Learn more about Joanna Volpe at her agency's website and blog.

This item will close on Thursday, September 15th, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 2, Item 4: Signed copy of INKBLOT

2011-09-13T00:04:00.000-04:00

From YA writing team Johnson Naigle:

Win a signed copy of YA suspense novel INKBLOT.

Eighteen-year-old web entrepreneur Ronnie Wright owns the virally popular website, INKBLOT. Determined to sweep local newspaper reporter, Chelsea Pressman, off her feet, he tries to wow her with his internet success.

Chelsea has one goal, making it big as a reporter. Unfortunately the editor isn’t tossing any good stories her way. Her luck changes and she is first in line to cover a string of bizarre crimes. The notoriety she’s gaining from the front-page stories is addictive.

The police finally trace the crimes to a common link – INKBLOT.

Now, Ronnie has to clear his name as the number one suspect in Chelsea’s headline crimes.

Johnson Naigle is the writing team of Virginia authors, Nancy Naigle and Phyllis C. Johnson. This is their first novel together.

Learn more about Johnson Naigle at their website and on Twitter.

This item will close on Thursday, September 15th, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 2, Item 3: Signed Hardcover of OVER AND UNDER THE SNOW

2011-09-13T00:03:00.000-04:00

From children's writer Kate Messner:

Win a signed hardcover of OVER AND UNDER THE SNOW, coming out this fall from Chronicle Books.

Over the snow, the world is hushed and white. But under the snow exists a secret kingdom of squirrels and snow hares, bears and bullfrogs, and many other animals that live through the winter safe and warm, awake and busy, under the snow. Discover the wonder and activity that lies beneath winter’s snowy landscape in this magical book.

Note: This item may also be personalized!

Kate Messner is a middle school teacher and the award-winning author of several books for young readers, including Sea Monster’s First Day, the Marty McGuire chapter book series with Scholastic, Sugar and Ice, and E.B. White Read Aloud Award winner The Brilliant Fall of Gianna Z. (both from Walker/Bloomsbury), and the forthcoming Eye of the Storm. Kate lives on Lake Champlain with her family.

Learn more about Kate Messner at her website, Twitter, and Facebook.

This item will close on Thursday, September 15th, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 2, Item 2: Copy of THE FOREST FOR THE TREES

2011-09-13T00:02:00.000-04:00

From YA writer Lynn Colt:

Win a copy of Betsy Lerner's THE FOREST FOR THE TREES: AN EDITOR'S ADVICE TO WRITERS.

Lerner worked as an editor at Houghton-Mifflin, Ballantine, Simon & Schuster, and Doubleday. Now working now as a literary agent, she shares an insider's perspective on the publication side of writing. Definitely not a "how-to" book or a style manual, this chatty, informal volume is anecdotal and encouraging to the novice or amateur writer.

The first part describes various types of writers Lerner has worked with over the years and how a writer's personality influences both the writing and the ability to get published. The second covers the process of manuscript submission and offers concrete advice about literary agents, query letters, multiple submissions, working with editors and publicists, and dealing with rejection and writer's block.

Note: This item is open to U.S. bidders only.

Lynn is a YA author in the Washington DC area, repped by Ginger Clark of Curtis Brown, Ltd. She writes about selkies and cheerleaders (though not at the same time. Yet!).

Learn more about Lynn Colt on her blog and on Twitter.

This item will close on Thursday, September 15th, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 2, Item 1: Full MS Critique

2011-09-13T00:01:00.000-04:00

From Rachel Bateman:

Win proofreading/line-editing critique on a FULL manuscript. Rachel will note in detail any issues with punctuation, grammar, consistency, misspelling, word choice/appropriateness, structure (sentence, paragraph, and overall). She will also make minor notes on plot and character development, voice, setting, and dramatic tension, but the real focus of the edit will be on the line level.

Rachel Bateman is an aspiring author and freelance proofreader. She also previously worked as a line editor for a publishing company.

Learn more about Rachel at her website and on Twitter.

This item will close on Thursday, September 15th, at 10:00PM EST.

First Day Recap

2011-09-12T20:19:00.000-04:00

Whew! What a fantastic first day at the Read for Relief auction!

We are so grateful to the donors who graciously gave to the auction, and we are very, very thankful for your bids! (Keep 'em coming!) There will be a batch of new items posted tomorrow, but you can still bid on today's items until Wednesday at 10:00PM EST.

A few housekeeping items:

Please remember to include your email address when you bid. This way, we can get in touch with you if you win!
If you'd like to donate to the auction, we are still taking items! Please fill out this form and we'll contact you once your item goes live. Thank you so much!
A blog reader pointed out yesterday that the American Red Cross donation page only accepts U.S. credit cards. Fortunately for our international participants, organizer Erin Bowman found a way around this! If you are an international bidder who wins an item, please choose "Amazon Payment" as your pay method on the Red Cross site. Then hit "Continue" and you will be redirected to Amazon where you may make your donation. (Thanks to Bec Sampson for bringing this up!)

Be sure to check in tomorrow where we will have some awesome items up for bid, including a query critique from Joanna Volpe, a group critique from Operation Awesome, and a signed copy of Suzanne Young's A Need So Beautiful!

Thank you and happy bidding!

Let the Auction Begin!

2011-09-12T00:12:00.000-04:00

The Read for Relief auction is now open!

We have a great line-up of items today, including a variety of query critiques, partial critiques, and signed ARCs! (I'm pretty tempted to bid on a few myself!)

To recap our auction policies:

1. Bidders will have three days to bid in the comments of an item. (Monday's items will close on Wednesday at 10:00PM EST.)
2. There is a minimum starting bid of $10.
3. Include your bid in US dollar ($) amounts along with your email address so we can contact you if you win.
4. Please use comments only for bidding.

For more information on the auction, please visit our How It Works page.

Happy bidding!

ETA: We are still taking donations for the auction if you'd like to give something! (A book, an ARC, a critique...basically anything publishing-related.) To donate, please fill out this form. Thank you!

Day 1, Item 1: Query and 30-Page Critique

2011-09-12T00:11:00.000-04:00

From the Read for Relief Organizers:

A critique of your query and first 30 pages from each of us! (We all write mainly YA or MG, so keep this in mind!)

Erin Bowman is the author of THE LAICOS PROJECT, a first in a YA trilogy coming from Harper Teen in the winter of 2013. When not writing, Erin can often be found designing things (websites, mainly). Or reading. She tweets a lot too; it's sort of an addiction.

Caroline Tung Richmond is a MG/YA writer represented by Jim McCarthy of DGLM. One day, she would like to own a cupcake factory, a mini horse, and a Nimbus 3000.

Tracey Neithercott is a health journalist and YA writer who thinks reading is more fun than partying and cleaning is a better stress reliever than ice cream. She's a firm believer that book nerds make the best friends.

Sarah Enni is a YA writer whose love for books is only rivaled by her dedication to completing the Triforce and defeating Ganondorf.

Learn more about Erin, Caroline, Tracey, and Sarah on the About Us page.

This item will close on Wednesday, September 14th, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 1, Item 2: Editor 10-Page Critique

2011-09-12T00:10:00.000-04:00

From HarperTeen Editor Erica Sussman:

Win a critique of the first 10 pages of your children's manuscript (YA, MG, chapter or picture book).

Erica Sussman is a senior editor at HarperCollins Children's Books, where she acquires and edits teen and tween fiction. She works with many authors, including Kiersten White, Amy Garvey, Leigh Fallon, Erin Bowman, and Robison Wells. Upcoming projects include the middle grade novel Storybound by Marissa Burt and the teen novel The Selection by Kiera Cass. She is also the editor of the #1 New York Times bestselling Warriors series and she is closely involved with the Little House program.

Learn more about Erica by following her on Twitter.

This item will close on Wednesday, September 14th, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 1, Item 3: Agent Query Critique

2011-09-12T00:09:00.000-04:00

From Agent Jim McCarthy:

Win a query critique from the agent who represents authors like Richelle Mead, Carrie Ryan, Jackson Pearce, and Jessica Spotswood.

Jim McCarthy interned for DGLM while studying urban design at New York University. Upon graduating in 2002, Jim realized he would much rather continue working with books than make the jump (as he had originally intended) to the field of city planning. Jim was raised just outside of NYC and currently lives in Manhattan.

Learn more about Jim at DGLM's blog.

This item will close on Wednesday, September 14th, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 1, Item 4: Signed ARC of CARRIER OF THE MARK

2011-09-12T00:08:00.000-04:00

From YA author Leigh Fallon:

Win a signed ARC of CARRIER OF THE MARK.

Note: This item is open to U.S. and international bidders.

Leigh Fallon was born in South Africa, raised in Dublin, Ireland, and moved to Cork in her twenties. Her debut novel, CARRIER OF THE MARK, will be available in the U.S. and Canada on October 4th, 2011, and in the U.K. and Ireland on September 29th, 2011.

Learn more about Leigh on her website and Facebook page, or follow her on Twitter.

This item will close on Wednesday, September 14th, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 1, Item 5: Query and 10-Page Critique

2011-09-12T00:07:00.001-04:00

From YA author Natalie Whipple:

Natalie will critique your query letter and the first 10 pages of your manuscript.

Natalie Whipple is a YA writer repped by Anna Webman of Curtis Brown, LTD, and her novel, TRANSPARENT, will be out Summer 2013 from HarperTeen! When she's not writing, she cooks, draws, and watches more anime than she should.

Learn more about Natalie at her blog or follow her on Twitter.

This item will close on Wednesday, September 14th, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 1, Item 6: Partial Critique and a Signed Copy of COLD KISS

2011-09-12T00:05:00.000-04:00

From YA author Amy Garvey:

Win a signed hardcover of COLD KISS and a critique of the first 30 pages of your manuscript.

Note: This item is open to U.S. bidders only.

Amy Garvey grew up reading everything she could get her hands on, watching too much TV, and wishing she was Samantha Stevens from Bewitched. (She still wishes that, actually.) COLD KISS is her first novel for young adults.

Learn more about Amy at her blog or follow her on Twitter.

This item will close on Wednesday, September 14th, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 1, Item 7: Hardcover of SHATTER ME

2011-09-12T00:04:00.000-04:00

From YA author Tahereh Mafi:

Win a hardcover copy of SHATTER ME.

Note: This item is open to U.S. bidders only.

SHATTER ME is Tahereh Mafi's first novel, and the first of a trilogy, coming from Harper/HarperCollins on November 15, 2011. Film rights have been optioned by 20th Century Fox.

Learn more about Tahereh at her blog or follow her on Twitter.

This item will close on Wednesday, September 14th, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 1, Item 8: Vermont-related Books and Prize Pack

2011-09-12T00:03:00.001-04:00

From YA writer Stephanie Kuehn:

Since the state of Vermont was hit hard by Hurricane Irene, this item includes a couple Vermont children's books, Vermont maple syrup, and Ben and Jerry's swag.

Note: This item is open to U.S. bidders only.

Stephanie Kuehn is a YA writer represented by Michael Bourret of Dystel and Goderich Literary Management. She also writes about reading and writing with YA Highway. She loves sports, languages, Santa Cruz, autumn leaves, stone fruit, and anything that can make her laugh out loud. In literature and life, she is drawn to realistic worlds and under-represented voices.

Learn more about Steph at her website and follow her on Twitter.

This item will close on Wednesday, September 14th, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 1, Item 9: Full Manuscript Critique

2011-09-12T00:02:00.000-04:00

From Teen Eyes Editor Taryn Albright:

Win a full manuscript read through with critique notes from the perspective of a teen. This is something only a teen can give: what your future reader would like to see. Although you initially have to impress editors and agents, your ultimate goal is for your story to resonate with teenagers. The ability to connect with your audience will determine whether or not your book will sell once published.

Taryn Albright is an editor with Teen Eyes, an editing service which offers a teen's perspective on your YA manuscript. Taryn is also a literary agency intern, and a querying writer.

Learn more about Taryn at Teen Eyes Editing Service.

This item will close on Wednesday, September 14th, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 1, Item 10: Signed Hardback of ASHFALL

2011-09-12T00:01:00.000-04:00

From YA author Mike Mullin:

Win an autographed first edition hardback of Mike's debut novel, ASHFALL, which will release on October 11th, 2011. ASHFALL is about a teen struggling to survive and find his family after the Yellowstone supervolcano erupts.

Note: This item is open to U.S. and Canadian bidders only.

Mike Mullin wrote his first novel in sixth grade, Captain Poopy's Sewer Adventures. Luckily for you, he's not giving that away.

Learn more about Mike on his website, blog, and follow him on Twitter.

This item will close on Wednesday, September 14th, at 10:00PM EST.

Day 1, Item 11: Critique and MG ARC Prize Pack

2011-09-12T00:00:00.000-04:00

From the Apocalypsies:

The Apocalypsies have offered a mega prize pack of critiques, ARCs, and author swag!

15-page critiques from Lynne Kelly, AC Gaughen, Jenny Lundquist, Gina Rosati, and Suzanne Lazear
10-page + query critique from Gennifer Albin and Katy Longshore
Query critique from KM Walton
Middle grade ARCs of STORYBOUND, donated by the author Marissa Burt; TUESDAYS AT THE CASTLE by Jessica Day George & DOWN THE MYSTERLY RIVER by Bill Willingham, donated by Claire Legrand
An Apocalypsies tote bag with author swag

The Apocalypsies is a group blog of 2012 debut authors who write for children and young adults.

Learn more about the Apocalypsies on their blog or follow them on Twitter.

This item will close on Wednesday, September 14th, at 10:00PM EST.

Auction Preview!

2011-09-09T10:48:00.000-04:00

With the Read for Relief auction opening on Monday -- only three days away! -- we thought we'd preview a few items that will be up for bidding. (You know, to get you super excited!) We have been so lucky to receive donations from authors, agents, and editors; and we are looking forward to raising funds for Hurricane Irene relief with your help.

So please check in next week to bid on items like:

Query critiques from agents (Jim McCarthy, Joanna Volpe, and Sara Crowe, to name a few)
Partial critiques from editors (like HarperTeen editor Erica Sussman)
Group critiques (the gals of YA Highway are offering a great one!)
Signed ARCs (like LOLA AND THE BOY NEXT DOOR by Stephanie Perkins and BORN WICKED by Jessica Spotswood)
Signed first edition hardcovers (like ASHFALL by Mike Mullin and VARIANT by Robison Wells)
And much, much more!

For more information about the auction, feel free to check out our How It Works page and our FAQs. If you'd like to donate an item, you are more than welcome to! We are accepting donations of books, ARCs, swag, critiques, and anything else industry-related you can think of. Feel free to get creative! Click here to fill out our donation form, or get more info on our Give an Auction Item page.

And a huge thank you to everyone that has blogged, tweeted, and spread the word about Read for Relief.

See you all on Monday!

Welcome

2011-09-06T19:37:00.000-04:00

Just a week and a half ago, Hurricane Irene worked her way up the east coast, leaving devastation in her wake. Millions were left without power to face flooding, damaged roads, and destroyed homes. From the Carolinas, up through New York, and even into Vermont, this storm has crippled communities.

In the past, the writing community has worked together to raise funds for a variety of causes. Knowing how gracious and giving this community is, we are hoping that we can once again rally together and raise money for the areas affected by one of the worst hurricanes the east coast has seen in decades.

Starting Monday, we will be hosting an auction featuring a variety of fabulous industry-related items (books, arcs, critiques, etc). We hope you come back and bid on some of them!

In the meantime, please help us spread the word! Tweet about Read for Relief and follow us on Twitter. Stick one of our glorious badges in your blog's sidebar. Maybe you even have a book or critique or something similar to donate to the auction. If so, please read more about how to Give an Auction Item and then fill out our donation form.

We'll see you back here in a few days!

The Effects of Hurricane Irene

2011-09-06T18:51:00.003-04:00

In late August 2011, Hurricane Irene swept over the Caribbean and up the U.S. East Coast, leaving extensive wind and flood damage in its wake. Early damage estimates have climbed above $7 billion in the United States alone.

Although cities like Washington, D.C. and New York City were spared from the heaviest devastation, towns across New England and the Mid-Atlantic were hit hard with flash floods and landslides. New York farmers lost over $45 million in crops, and states like Vermont and New Jersey experienced the worst flooding in decades.

Below, we have compiled photographs that hopefully capture the weight of this storm and why we have decided to hold this auction for hurricane relief.

A woman walks on the remains of Highway 12, the route that connected Cape Hatteras National Seashore to the North Carolina mainland. (Image courtesy of Buzzfeed.com)

A view of Main Street in Margaretville, NY. (Image courtesy of Buzzfeed.com)

The Stinson family sits on the steps of their Nags Head cottage in North Carolina. Built in 1903, their house was swept away during the hurricane. (Image courtesy of Buzzfeed.com)

The Wells Memorial Library in Upper Jay, New York lost its entire collection of picture books during Hurricane Irene. (Image courtesy of Kate Messner)

In Fleischmanns, New York, a bridge was destroyed after Hurricane Irene caused surging waters on the Delaware River. (Image courtesy of Monika Graff/Getty Images)

A week after the hurricane, homes still sat submerged in Bloomingdale, New Jersey. (Image courtesy of AP Photo/Mel Evans)

Destroyed roads and downed trees in Killington, VT (Image courtesy of Buzzfeed.com)

A before and after of Bartsonville, Vermont's historic covered bridge, which was lost to raging waters (Image courtesy of Buzzfeed.com)

If you would like to read more about the damage that Hurricane Irene brought, then please feel free to browse through the following articles:

"Irene: Deaths, Flooding, Power Losses State by State" from Bloomberg.com

"Flooding, Power Failures, Rainfall and Damage from Hurricane Irene" from NYTimes.com