Worldbuilders

Those of you who have been following the blog for a while probably remember last year’s fundraiser.

For those of you that are new to the blog, here’s the short version: Last year I thought I’d try to raise a couple thousand dollars for my favorite charity. However I underestimated the awesomeness of my fans and the geek community at large. Things quickly spiraled out of control, and in the end we raised over $110,000 for Heifer International.

(If you want the long version of the story, you can read the blogs from last year.)

While last year’s fundraiser was a success, it wasn’t very well organized. I was just too overwhelmed. I told myself the next time I did something like this, I’d make it better, more streamlined. I might even have a name for the fundraiser other than “The Heifer Fundraiser.”

So, Ladies and Gentlemen, without any further ado, I’d like to introduce you to Worldbuilders.

(We even have a logo. How cool is that?)

Last year, in less than a month, a bunch of fantasy and sci-fi geeks raised over 100,000 dollars to help people all over the world improve their lives.

This year, things will be even better.

How is this year going to be different? Well I’m glad you asked….

Way more prizes.

Last year we had hundreds of books to give away as prizes. This year we have way more. Way way more. Over a thousand. Maybe close to two thousand.

Auctions.

Last year, all the prizes were given out in a big raffle. This year, you’ll have the chance to bid on certain special items and services.

Want a professional agent to read your fledgling manuscript and give you feedback? No problem. Want a rare signed book or a manuscript? We’ve got those too.

We’re going to be auctioning off signed, limited edition stuff from Neil Gaiman, a piece of iron that fell from the sky, and a rockstar’s guitar. I’m not even kidding.

An official sponsor.

One of our best donors from last year, Subterranean Press, has stepped up to the plate with gusto for the launch of Worldbuilders. Not only are they donating over 10,000 dollars of gorgeous signed and limited edition books as prizes, but they’re also going to be helping me match donations.

This is really nice, as it means I won’t have to sell my house.

More stuff available for sale.

For those of you looking for Christmas presents, I’ll be offering some stuff directly for sale. You can get copies of the Name of the Wind, or rare copies of the out-of-print College Survival Guide or Tales of Dark Fantasy. All of them signed however you like.

Maps. Gorgeous posters. Worldbuilders t-shirts. All manner of things I’m just dying to show you…

The official launch of the fundraiser will be on Monday. I’ll be giving all the details then. I just couldn’t let thanksgiving go by without giving y’all a little peek at what’s to come.

The truth is, last year’s fundraiser was the best thing I’ve ever done in my life, and I’m thankful that I get to do it again this year. With your help, I’m hoping it can be even bigger and better than before.

Have a good Turkey Day, and remember: We are the music-makers, and we are the dreamers of dreams.

pat

P.S. More news about the raffle winners soon. I’m still getting in touch with people and working out the details.

P.P.S. If you just can’t wait until Monday, you can donate a little early on my Heifer page over here.

This entry was posted in cool things, Heifer International, Worldbuilders 2009By Pat34 Responses

34 Comments

  1. Tyson
    Posted November 26, 2009 at 10:29 AM | Permalink

    Completely awesome! I can’t wait to see what kind of stuff I can bid on that I normally would never pay for but can justify under the “it’s going to a good cause” umbrella.

  2. Alicia
    Posted November 26, 2009 at 11:07 AM | Permalink

    You are the most awesome person I’ve come across, and I’m glad you get to keep your house :) Hopefully this will become a phenomenon like Childs Play :)

    -A-

  3. Elicius
    Posted November 26, 2009 at 1:02 PM | Permalink

    Man, this is going to be awesome! Fighting with my fellow fanatics for some awesome Pat-ness, but with money, instead of fists!

    Ahh, the life of a internet….person.

    I’m really glad you decided to do this again this year Pat, you are the awesomest of the awesome. I have my fingers crossed for you to break last year’s record!

  4. marky
    Posted November 26, 2009 at 1:34 PM | Permalink

    Yes! It’s that time of year again. Fear me piggy bank! Fear me!

  5. Ex-UWSP Physics Guy
    Posted November 26, 2009 at 2:02 PM | Permalink

    Very awesome. (in addition to all of the other ‘awesome’ comments already) The fundraiser rocked last year, this year sounds amazing! Count me in!

  6. Amanda
    Posted November 26, 2009 at 3:24 PM | Permalink

    I’m super excited for this :) It sounds like there’s gonna be a lot of great stuff to win, plus it’s gonna be super successful. I can’t wait to be a part of it.

    Also, I covertly painted “we are the music makers, and we are the dreamers of dreams,” on my high school choir room ceiling before I graduated. I get all warm and fuzzy every time someone says it.

  7. AC
    Posted November 26, 2009 at 4:01 PM | Permalink

    Freakin awsome!!! I missed last years fundraiser so I’m stoaked to be able to participate this time around. I need a signed book from you to make my book collecting life complete. My poor piggy bank is going to be hurting :D

    You are all sorts of epic cool Pat .bd.

  8. Anonymous
    Posted November 26, 2009 at 4:07 PM | Permalink

    Yes! yes yes Y.E.S. Yes! Haha ok a little too much, but this year is the year Pat! I can finally put in some money! Thanks for being all awesome with this. Never forget to say “I love you” to Oot!

    -Germaine

  9. VSchmitt
    Posted November 26, 2009 at 4:44 PM | Permalink

    The fundraiser(s) are awesome, but shouldn’t Oot be the best thing you’ve ever done in your life? :) (With a “little” help from Sarah, of course!)

  10. Anonymous
    Posted November 26, 2009 at 5:48 PM | Permalink

    A good day for charity.Happy Thanksgiving to Pat, his loving family and everyone of his fans in USA.

    ps. Is it rude not to wish happy thanksgiving to people who don’t celebrate it or to do so?

    -plucky

  11. missalena
    Posted November 26, 2009 at 7:27 PM | Permalink

    Best Thanksgiving gift I’ve ever received. I can’t wait to see what prizes you have this year! (and hopefully get one of them!)

    ~Alena

    P.S. word verifier thingy: nalsier

  12. maarten
    Posted November 26, 2009 at 10:33 PM | Permalink

    This is really the thing I’ve been waiting for. Last fundraiser was amazing. I got myself a signed copy of The Name of The Wind. Even better: At this point I’ve got three signed copy’s of NOTW!! One Saying “A pig for a book is a good trade” (signed in Amsterdam, woohoo!). Maybe a pig for a world map poster this time?
    Man I’m excited!
    Way to go Pat. I’m sure it will be a great succes!

  13. Anonymous
    Posted November 27, 2009 at 1:59 AM | Permalink

    “The truth is, last year’s fundraiser was the best thing I’ve ever done in my life, and I’m thankful that I get to do it again this year.”

    Why not finish the second book? That might be better…

  14. Marc
    Posted November 27, 2009 at 2:43 AM | Permalink

    >Anonymous said…
    >”Why not finish the second book?That might be better…”

    I believe that’s the stupidest comment I’ve read in a long time. You need to take a look at yourself if you place reading a book over other people’s basic needs.

  15. Anonymous
    Posted November 27, 2009 at 3:40 AM | Permalink

    Finishing what you started is more important than constantly starting new projects and never finishing your main one.

    Procrastination is a bad habit to form.

  16. Renee
    Posted November 27, 2009 at 5:27 AM | Permalink

    Anonymous -Each of us checking Pat’s blog is anxious in anticipation of book two. And yes, once finished it will be a huge accomplishment. However, had you ever taken the time to devote yourself to a cause not centered around yourself or to your own personal benefit, you would then be able to understand the feeling of achievement and reward that comes from time and effort spent reaching out to those around you. I doubt you’ve ever been humble enough to consider this though. Books are wonderful to be sure, but there is much more to live and see and do in this world. It is my thought that such distractions could only help speed things along. My commendations to you Pat. I finished the first book about a month ago and have been checking here for updates ever since. This is the first comment I’ve written. It’s been really neat learning that the person behind one of my favorite books is also kind and generous. Don’t let anyone bring you down, I have faith in your choices and would gladly wait longer for a book knowing some of your time is being devoted to helping others. Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!

  17. Renee
    Posted November 27, 2009 at 5:31 AM | Permalink

    ps. if helping others is considered a bad habit to form then sign me up…guilty as charged!

  18. Anonymous
    Posted November 27, 2009 at 5:41 AM | Permalink

    Art can not be rushed. Charity can be done today!

    I have a riddle here for you. What is freely given but never True. What is said about others but all about you.
    An insult my friend. And let us not pretend.
    You think your self clever in this just-less endeavor.
    But for one who does not know of the joys of giving on such a day you just missed. I strive and fail not to find your mind ,sadly, moronically kissed.

    I am glad I am not on your Christmas List.

    -plucky

  19. Marc
    Posted November 27, 2009 at 5:46 AM | Permalink

    >Finishing what you started is more important than constantly starting new projects and never finishing your main one.

    >Procrastination is a bad habit to form.

    Let’s not pretend this has anything to do with the prevention of bad habits. This has to do with your own self-centeredness.
    Additionally, how much interaction have you had with Patrick Rothfuss to know if he procrastinates or not?
    We’re all eager for the second book. But in the meantime, let’s do something truly worthwhile.

  20. Bombie
    Posted November 27, 2009 at 8:05 AM | Permalink

    I love how mature the people here respond to the odd boorish anonymous ego. Pat, you attract the best of audiences.

    You keep on being nobody’s bitch, you keep on being this wonderful individual of exceptional holiness.

    Love the name and the logo.

  21. Zack Truel
    Posted November 27, 2009 at 9:03 AM | Permalink

    Still hoping to get that phone call Pat… ;)

  22. alwaysoptimistc
    Posted November 27, 2009 at 9:25 AM | Permalink

    “Each of us checking Pat’s blog is anxious in anticipation of book two”.

    Actually, I’m not.

    (Not that anyone asked [or most likely cares], but) I arrived here through a link from George R.R. Martin’s blog and that was the first that I had heard of the worthy and honorable Patrick Rothfuss. After some clicking, I made the discovery that Mr. Rothfuss is a fan of the gloriousness known as Firefly. For that alone, he is Good People.

    And so, I have often made the perilous journey here from my home page.

    I did purchase one of those book-thingies, and it does appear to be quite impressive, but to actually attempt to read it?

    Hm.

    That seems like a no-win scenario. If I enjoy the book, then I shall wish to read another, and that way might lead to madness (or at the least, grumpiness). Yet, if I were to read it and it were not to live up to my anticipation, then I would be quite saddened.

    Therefore, not reading the book seems the best choice. I do hope that the book gets written, so that Mr Rothfuss can find peace (or at least as much peace as he might with a young child) and I know that it will make the multitudes who have read the first one happy.

    But until that Second-Book-Is-Done-Day occurs, I shall visit often, yet never be tempted towards anxiousness, anticipation, anger, annoyance, aggravation, or any other ‘a’ words that may hold a negative connotation.

    Meanwhile, the Auction sounds like quite a bit of fun and I very much look forward to bidding on some items by authors whose work I am also completely unfamiliar with.

  23. Tesse
    Posted November 27, 2009 at 12:16 PM | Permalink

    I have a feeling that this year will raise even more money. You’ll hit the 1/2 million mark and get media attention.

    Ok, enough prophesy. something must have gone wrong. I have not yet had a phonecall or email about me sending in a name while you say that you are already contacting people. I am open to suggestions for changing the name. I’m even willing to pretend that one of the names you pick is an altered version of my name…..

    About the auction. Yeah….as a student I don’t think I’ll ever win an auction. But I’m feeling lucky and I’ll join in on the lottery. Just be sure to make paypal available…..it will add a lot of donations I think!

    Good job Pat. Glad you’re doing this awesomeness.

  24. eric
    Posted November 27, 2009 at 4:27 PM | Permalink

    Awesomeness — the name is perfect, and that logo is really cool too. gonna have to get a few of those t-shirts…

  25. Izola
    Posted November 27, 2009 at 8:15 PM | Permalink

    Izola the World Builder.
    That has international best selling sequel written all over it.

  26. Anonymous
    Posted November 27, 2009 at 11:17 PM | Permalink

    Awesome can’t wait to make a donation. Pat did you know they have finished season 2 of The Legend of Neil with the final two episodes?

  27. The Authentic
    Posted November 28, 2009 at 1:22 AM | Permalink

    okay, fundraisers are really cool and all (they really are and its cool that you do them) but I read the name of the wind for the 3rd time today – its like a motivational story for me – and I have a newfound, burning need to know when the wise man’s fear is coming out. Now, I don’t care when it comes out as long as its perfect, I just get frustrated always seeing stories unrelated to the book on your blog (I know you have a life outside the book, but just a little more information on it would hold off my desire for the book to come out).

  28. Anonymous
    Posted November 29, 2009 at 7:23 AM | Permalink

    Yes Pat, Please please please please please please please please please please please please please please please please please please please please please please please please please, POST AN EXCERPT FROM BOOK TWO ON THE BLOG TO FEED A SMALL BIT OF OUR CRAVING FOR BOOK TWO!!!

  29. Stacey and Taylor
    Posted November 29, 2009 at 8:14 PM | Permalink

    All I want to say is that each time I visit your sight to check on the status of book 2 I am always blown away with your kindness and great humor. Thank you so much for sharing so much of who you are and of course for helping others who are in such need. Take your time and keep up the amazing work. YOU ROCK!!!!

  30. domee
    Posted November 29, 2009 at 11:12 PM | Permalink

    hi pat i know it is late for the contest , but i like to say to you a name that i think it can be used…how i can ppropose it to you?
    sorry for my bad english but i ‘m from Italy.
    send me a mail please :):):)
    byebye bigPat

  31. Karen
    Posted November 30, 2009 at 4:28 AM | Permalink

    Awesome and wonderful. I’m looking forward to seeing the list of items when it’s ready. And thanks for doing this!

  32. Fragmented Glass
    Posted December 1, 2009 at 2:19 AM | Permalink

    Awesome. I’m so excited.
    And reading through the comments I’m also really happy that people commented on that ridiculous comment that you finish the book first. I waited 7 years for 1 book by Isobelle Carmody.
    I think we can wait patiently tuning into your blog for you to get wise mans fear to exactly how you want it to be, and should be. Anything less wouldn’t be your wish, but fans etc not understanding and rushing you and no one wants it to be rushed. Take as much time as you wish. We will still all be here.

    Trillian

  33. Vixen
    Posted December 1, 2009 at 9:47 AM | Permalink

    Hey Pat,

    Has anyone mentioned already how awesome you are? Hmk, never mind then.
    I wonder what cool stuff we’ll have this time. I can’t believe you have so much time on your hands, now with Oot and all. How much would a little pic of him go for in the fundraiser…

    Did you know Wise Mans Fear will be out in april in Holland? Yes, that was a surprise for me too. And it will have exactly 896 pages..
    Just thought it was funny.

    I hope everything is progressing the way you want it to.

    Love
    Vix

  34. Anonymous
    Posted December 3, 2009 at 8:55 PM | Permalink

    Off topic, but I wanted to tell you I’m waiting patiently (i.e. take your time to make it right) for volume two.

    I’m pretty sure you pass the minion test (i.e. use of the word “minion” demonstrates you have a lack of imagination and are writing derivative, fantasy trash).

    Thanks for being so entertaining.

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