Quote:
Originally Posted by Iphinome
She put hers up bit by bit and took donations in exchange for posting the next chapter. Think of it as someone building a castle and every day people who think castles are pretty cool come by and drop off a few home depot gift cards to keep the project going. Then when the castle is finished someone picks it up with a helicopter and flies it away. The people who offered their help stand there stunned saying what the hell.
Her choice, no laws broken, no promise to keep the castle where it was built. Just... I don't have the words. uncool I guess. If i were the publicist I'd be offering people who donated over a certain level autographed hardcovers or something to try to smooth ruffled feathers and maybe everyone who donated a coupon for a discount on the hardcover. Something to show those people that they really do matter because they probably feel used right now. But that's just me, I think a short term hit in income beats long term bad will.
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First explanation I've seen that I can wrap my head around. Thanks. I don't quite agree with the analogy, but at least we're no longer arguing at cross purposes.
To me, the fact that she had the book up for a fair length of time is sufficient honoring of her side of the implicit bargain. I acknowledge that there can be a difference of opinion about that. And certainly about whether it's a smart move strategically. But just on the point of honor, I don't see a justification for excoriating her.
BTW, my bad on calling her award a Nebula. It was the Andre Norton Award for outstanding YA SF. It is awarded with the Nebulas, but is not a Nebula itself. (I should not have made that mistake, considering that I was part of the group that
created the Norton award, and I chair the rules committee that governs both.
)
To the comment someone else made about authors seeking fame and fortune--give me a break. Authors want to earn a decent living from their work. Few can. If actual fame and fortune come, that's amazing and special. It happens to few of us. I know
very few authors who take fans for granted.