A Little Help

The enormity of what’s happened in Japan is difficult to comprehend. I’m sure that like me you’ve had recent moments of thinking ‘the world’s gone mad’ and ‘what’s the point?’ But what’s inspiring is the quiet bravery and dignity of the people who have been affected by the tsunami – at least, that’s the story the news photos is telling us, I can only begin to imagine the trauma – and so it makes me think that doing something, even if it seems like a very little thing, is worthwhile.

Someone who has been working very hard to make a difference is YA author Keris Stainton, who has started a new auction that might seem familiar to those of you who regularly visit my site – I was one of four authors who organised the Authors For Queensland auction this year, which raised over $20,000, and now Keris has opened up Authors For Japan. The items on offer are just amazing for book-lovers and aspiring writers – and indeed established writers (we never stop needing a second opinion) – because there are assessments on offer, mentoring, naming book characters, signed copies and all sorts.

The auction is open internationally but you must bid in UK pounds and you’d better get in there fast because bidding has already started. I’ll certainly be having a bid – perhaps I’ll see you in there.

p.s. For those who would like an editorial assessment of a children’s or YA novel, there’s one available by me here.