Three Threes or Who Wants to Be A Beta Reader?

Hey there folks,

We’re coming up on the end of the fundraiser. As I type this, we’re at $417,000 and we’re closing in fast on last year’s total of 433,000 dollars.

Traditionally, this is the time of year where I kick something into the fundraiser that’s a little… unique. Something to give a little extra incentive for people to donate here at the end of things.

This year, I have three items that might be extra-appealing to readers of my books….

ALL THE COINS 2

Here are the three things I’m putting into the lottery today:

1. Prototype sets of Cealdish currency

2. Faerie stones

3. The chance to be one of my beta readers

I’m putting three of each of these into the lottery. Hence the title of today’s blog. Three threes.

Now, if you’re interested in winning these things, I need you to read carefully, because there’s a potential problem:

Back in the day, Worldbuilders used to mostly be fans of my books. But it’s grown over the years, and now we are strong with the collected might of many different geek clans.

And that’s a good thing. A *great* thing.

The problem is this: the things I’m putting into the lottery today are a little…. specialized. They’re the sorts of things some of you are going to geek out about. But other people aren’t going to care about them at all.

I’ve been trying to figure out how I give the hardcore Kingkiller geeks a chance to win these items, while keeping them out of the hands of people who aren’t interested. How can the Worldbuilders team pull some folks into a super-special Rothfussians-only lottery for these nine items?

So here’s what we’re going to do.

If you want to be eligible to win these items, you have to go and make a donation to Heifer International on the Worlduilders Team Page. Same rules as before: every $10 you kick in gets you another chance to win.

But if you want to be eligible to win these things, your donation should end with .33 cents.

Enough for honeybees? $30.33. Enough for a goat? $120.33. A Heifer? $500.33

You follow the pattern here?

If you donate with .33 at the end of your total, in addition to being entered in the main drawing for tens of thousands of dollars worth of books, you’ll also get entered into this smaller, side-lottery for the hardcore Rothfuss fans only….

What’s more, if you made other donations under the same name, we’ll include them in this separate lottery too.

So. Just to be clear. Let’s say you donated 60 bucks back in December. But you read this blog and want a piece of the action, so you go log onto our team heifer page and donate $33.33. That means your total donation would be $93.33. So you’d have nine entries in the main lottery, and nine entries in the Rothfuss-specific one too.

You got it? You can donate over here.

1. Three sets of prototype Cealdish currency.

Coins closeup

Here we have an iron drab, a copper jot, a silver talent, and a gold mark.

A few of you have seen the jots and drabs before, but this is the first time I’ve had a full set to show off.

I’m a bit of a geek for old coins. So I’ve been working with Tom Maringer from the Shire Post Mint to develop currency for my world. If Tom’s name sounds familiar to you, it should. Last week we showed off some of his handiwork when he donated a bunch of currency from Wheel of Time and Game of Thrones.

For the Cealdish currency in my world, we’re doing something a little different. Rather than starting with the modern coins (The coins that Kvothe would be using.) We’re actually developing the historical coins first, then evolving the currency forward in history.

This set of coins would have been from about 500-600 years ago. Back when they were only a few short steps removed from bartering tokens.

The jot is solid copper. The drab is steel with a fusion crust.

The talent is made of an alloy called billion. It’s 20% silver and 80% copper. It was commonly used for coins here in the real world. It’s normally a rosy color, not bright silver like these. You see, if you heat billion in a furnace, some of the silver naturally migrates to the surface. Then, if you hammer it, it spreads the silver out so it looks much brighter, like a solid silver coin.

That’s what they used to do before electroplating. And that’s what we’ve done here.

The gold mark actually has gold in it. Not a *ton* of gold, but a little. (Even a little gold is pricey.) The rest of it is silver and copper. It’s an odd molten red color I’ve never seen before, and it’s polished and buffed to the point where it looks like it’s been enameled.

We’re doing a limited run of these. We only made 1000 jots. And there will be fewer talents and marks. When they’re gone we’re moving on to the next batch. That set will be from 300 years in Kvothe’s past. The designs will be more developed, the alloys different, and the maker’s marks more complex.

We’ll be selling these in the store eventually, but first we have to make more of them, get packaging straightened out, develop the product descriptions, etc etc…

But I have three sets now. And you can win them if you donate.

2.  Three Faerie Stones.

Fairy Stone

For those of you whose educations have been sorely neglected: a faerie stone is a stone you find on the shore with a hole bored all the way through it. They’re supposed to protect you from the fair folk. The specifics vary from story to story, but it’s generally agreed that they help you see through glamour and guard you against their charms.

When I was in Brighton for World Fantasy last November, I went looking on the beach for faerie stones. And I found some. And I brought them home.

I gave one to Oot, who promptly used it to wish for a horse. I gave one to Sarah, because I don’t want the fae to be getting all seducy on her, or pulling any changeling shit with Cutie.

Why would I give them away? Well, here’s the thing…. Some traditions say that faerie stones are only effective if they’re given to you. A freely-given gift.

I have three of these stones left, and I’m putting them in the lottery.

3.  Three chances be my beta reader.

So ever since I talked about my writing process on the blog a couple years ago, I’ve had hundreds of people e-mail me, asking how they can get to be one of my beta readers.

Generally speaking, the simple answer is this: go back in time 15 years and get to know me back before I was published.

You see, back in the day, anyone could be my beta reader provided they were willing to slog through 250,000 words of unpublished fantasy novel.

These days, the main requirement is that I trust you.

Why? Because if an early version of Book Three gets leaked onto the internet, the results will be catastrophic for both me and my publisher.

But I *could* let someone beta my new novella about Auri….

AuriAmyWinterbreeze

(Art Courtesy of Amy on Deviantart.)

You’ll sill have to sign a truly draconian non-disclosure form. Then I’ll mail you a copy of the story with some instructions and a red pen. After you’ve had a chance to read it, and scribble some notes, I’ll give you a call, see what you thought, and pick your brain a little bit.

And maybe, *maybe* if things work out well, and I feel I can trust you, and the stars align. Then I might add you to my list of permanent beta readers….

If any of these things seem like they might be up your alley, remember, all you need to do is head over to the Worldbuilders Team Page and donate directly to Heifer International.

And don’t forget, end your donation with .33….

Good night, Nightvale.

Goodnight.

This entry was posted in calling on the legions, contests, Worldbuilders 2013. By Pat177 Responses

177 Comments

  1. Jörg Mosthaf
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 6:00 AM | Permalink

    Oh fudge… read that post just _after_ I donated…
    There is probably no way to change a donation, or register me for those specials even without the .33, is there?
    Anyway – love what you’re doing – inspired me to donate as well :)

    • Posted January 30, 2014 at 6:07 AM | Permalink

      I’m sorry. But this is the only way we can do it that won’t require people to go through some sort of laborious extra step that would involve logging in and filling out a form somewhere else.

      Even if people did want to go fill out a form. (They don’t.) And even if they all managed miraculously to fill it out correctly (They wouldn’t.) We’d still have to somehow integrate it with our other donation spreadsheet. And that would be a logistical nightmare that would eat up a ton of everyone’s time.

      We’d rather spend that time getting everyone’s books and prizes packaged up and mailed out to them quickly.

      • cynrtst
        Posted January 30, 2014 at 9:24 PM | Permalink

        I did the same thing. I donated about 3 weeks ago, but last night decided to donate again. THEN I read this! So I donated another $10.33. If it was after February 3rd I could have donated more, but I’m on disability and combined with my other donations, I’m over $60 for the month and that’s a huge chunk of my disposable income. All for a worthwhile cause, but you can’t get blood out of a turnip. If anyone is looking for another worthwhile cause and has some money to spend, there is a bison ranch that lost their water well and needs money to build a new one. The charity is called Water For Bison. I donated to them this month too. Who needs to eat?, lol.

      • Jörg Mosthaf
        Posted January 31, 2014 at 7:06 AM | Permalink

        Yeah – I can understand that.
        So I just donated again, with .33 :)
        Ramen are good for the soul, right? ;)

    • gryphia
      Posted January 30, 2014 at 9:17 AM | Permalink

      If I read Pat’s blog post right, you could donate, say, $1.33 under the same name, and then your previous donation would go into the special Pat pool, as well as whatever you donate a second time. That’s probably the easiest way.

      • RickT
        Posted January 30, 2014 at 9:56 AM | Permalink

        Sadly, this doesn’t work. There is a minimum donation requirement of $10. Which means to be eligible you need to donate at least $10.33……… Really to bad if you donated earlier.

        • LenaMeow
          Posted January 30, 2014 at 11:49 AM | Permalink

          An extra 10.33 should not be too bad for most people who were able to donate in the first place, and it is just more money to support this great cause, I donated once (did it only yesterday) and this just encouraged me to donate again today.

          • Posted January 30, 2014 at 3:04 PM | Permalink

            that isn’t necessarily true. A lot of Pat’s fans are awesome and donate money they can’t really spare because they love what’s happening here, and the awesome prizes don’t hurt either. I know it sucks not to be in the running for these new special prizes, but at least you’re still up for the rest, and you’re helping people around the world.

          • lolzbuckets
            Posted January 30, 2014 at 7:53 PM | Permalink

            This. I totally can’t afford to donate, but I am donating $10.33 anyway on the one-in-a-million chance that I get to be a beta reader. +_____+

            The other details are all just icing on the cake. I sincerely doubt I’m alone in this mentality.

  2. RegistrationIsStupid
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 6:30 AM | Permalink

    Just to clear it out, everyone with at least one donation ending in .33 is in the extra lottery or everyone whos donations under the same name add to a sum ending in .33 ?

    • Posted January 30, 2014 at 6:36 AM | Permalink

      Everyone with at least one donation ending in 33.

      Keep in mind, this is a way for us to identify you. We won’t be looking for fiddly reasons to exclude people. I *want* to identify the people who want to be in on this drawing.

      • RegistrationIsStupid
        Posted January 30, 2014 at 5:24 PM | Permalink

        I was just wondering if I donated 60.10 already do I donate 30.23 or 30.33 under the same name.
        I just didn’t know if you only take the total for each name and if that ends in .33 you are in the side lottery or if you need at least one donation ending in .33

        Things are clear now. Thanks.

  3. mutinyonthebay
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 6:30 AM | Permalink

    I don’t believe it.

  4. thegunslinger
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 6:42 AM | Permalink

    I guess… even a Brazilian fan, can be a beta reader too?! :)

    • Posted January 30, 2014 at 7:02 AM | Permalink

      Sure, provided you can read English….

      • thegunslinger
        Posted January 30, 2014 at 7:06 AM | Permalink

        Man… I’ve read your books (both of them) two times in portuguese and once in english. :)

        • Fellipe
          Posted January 30, 2014 at 10:15 AM | Permalink

          Btw I think Vera Ribeiro (the translator for brazilian portiguese) did an awesome job translating the currency names, they sound really good, don’t you think?

          • Fellipe
            Posted January 30, 2014 at 10:16 AM | Permalink

            Now I’m curious, Pat, do the translated names get to you for approval or something?

          • Oatmeal
            Posted January 30, 2014 at 10:41 AM | Permalink

            He has a whole forum as well as regular conversations with his translators. This is an interesting blog which tells you all about it. https://blog.patrickrothfuss.com/2011/08/fanmail-qa-why-does-it-take-so-long-to-translate-the-book/

          • Fellipe
            Posted January 30, 2014 at 1:17 PM | Permalink

            Thanks Oatmeal
            wow, the example Pat gave on that post you linked kinda made me afraid of translated stuff… Think I’m going to try the english one, maybe my opinion about Denna can change, who knows

  5. Kthaeh
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 7:20 AM | Permalink

    Oh, man….Here I thought only those who viewed the livestream were going to be in on this opportunity. Ah, well, can’t be too selfish I suppose. I’m doubling my WB contribution for a shot at being a reader of any sort. And I’m diverting this money from another perfectly worthy charity in order to do so. Pat, I can’t tell you how excited the prospect of reading your work in any stage of MS makes me. I would do just about anything to prove myself worthy of such an honor if I were ever so fortunate as to win.

    Just to clarify – any donation that ends in 33 cents gets *all* the entries earned with that donation put into the special lottery pool, yes? So, a $100.33 donation would get you 10 entries into the special lottery?

    • Amanda
      Posted January 30, 2014 at 9:45 AM | Permalink

      Yup!

    • Brett
      Posted January 30, 2014 at 4:36 PM | Permalink

      It’s cumulative as well, if I remember correctly. Heifer combines all the donations from an individual based on their names and contact info. So if you’ve already donated $50, and you add $10.33 now (using the same name and account), that’s a total of $60.33, which makes you eligible for Pat’s threes (as well as the rest of the lottery) 6 times.

  6. Posted January 30, 2014 at 7:32 AM | Permalink

    Awesome! I guess now I have to donate again, the three beta reader opportunities in the lottery are just too awesome (imho) to pass up.
    I promise not to leave your manuscripts on a train seat, if I happen to win ;)

  7. Found
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 8:23 AM | Permalink

    This was just too cool to not to. An Auri novella? To be published . . . ?

  8. Kalef
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 8:25 AM | Permalink

    With this, my dear Mr. Rothfuss, you will anihilate the 500K-border in a mere three Days.

    • Kthaeh
      Posted January 30, 2014 at 9:22 AM | Permalink

      Yeah. I don’t know what the usual rate of contributions is, but it looks like we geekfans are blowing the roof off on account of these extra special goodies. I estimate ~$5.5k contributed in four hours or less, since this post was put up.

      Smart move on holding these goodies in reserve till the end, Pat. I’m debating how many weeks I can subsist on beans and rice, in order to scrape together a few more chances at these prizes. No lie: Want. Want. Want.

      • Ritsenki
        Posted January 30, 2014 at 10:36 AM | Permalink

        Indeed. Through the roof! :)

    • Kalef
      Posted January 30, 2014 at 7:55 PM | Permalink

      Oh me of little faith… not three it is. It is one.

  9. Mephy
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 8:52 AM | Permalink

    Words cannot describe the want. :o

    About to be pay day, was going to donate $30, about to donate $120.33.

  10. Posted January 30, 2014 at 9:15 AM | Permalink

    Thanks for doing it this way! Since I don’t have much money, I’m glad that by making a new donation, all my previous ones count as well. I was about to be very disappointed before I read far enough through the blog.

    Incidentally, this will be my third donation. More threes!

  11. Uncanny Valet
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 9:19 AM | Permalink

    Welp, that tears it. Donating tonight!

  12. TheManiacWoodpecker
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 9:27 AM | Permalink

    Anybody knows how long Worldbuilder will run this year? Can’t remember the exact date

    • Mephy
      Posted January 30, 2014 at 9:30 AM | Permalink

      Think it ends Feb 2nd? If you go to worldbuilders.org, there is a handy countdown!

      • TheManiacWoodpecker
        Posted January 31, 2014 at 2:18 AM | Permalink

        Thanks Mephy :-)

  13. Axelrod
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 9:44 AM | Permalink

    Ah, Mr. Rothfuss, you devious man. How better to goose the donations – and prompt a second wave from those of us who have already donated – than with this irresistible offer.

    Well done, I say. Well done.

    Now where’s my wallet….

  14. Fletchaaa
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 9:50 AM | Permalink

    Definitely a good incentive for me to donate a little more (especially for being a beta reader or the coins)! Also what… AURI NOVELLA!?? When did that happen and how did I miss the announcement?

  15. GorillaGreg
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 9:52 AM | Permalink

    Well, you “milked” another donation out of me. Get it, “milked”? Eh? EH? Eh.

    • Brett
      Posted January 30, 2014 at 4:39 PM | Permalink

      *slow clap*

    • BigHugeFatGuy
      Posted January 30, 2014 at 7:01 PM | Permalink

      You donated an udder one?

  16. JohnWenger
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 9:55 AM | Permalink

    Pat, I just wanted you to know that I wasn’t sure I’d be able to donate this year (my wife left her job to go to grad school to become a teacher and money has been tight), but watching the livestream last night and hearing you talk about folks that didn’t have very much, but still wanted to donate to Worldbuilders inspired me. Thanks so much for doing this!

  17. Oatmeal
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 9:56 AM | Permalink

    Aaaand, there’s another $10.33 from me. Good job Pat, my first year donating, and between the stretch goals, and the random awesomeness I’ve donated 3 times AND made several purchases from the shop. I’m proud to participate, and I really hope to win the chance to beta-read the Auri novella.

  18. neurojen
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 9:58 AM | Permalink

    Oh, the joy I would experience in editing something that is not about brains or eyeballs. I bought a powerball ticket this morning, too. It’s going to be a very tough call at the end of the day to say which I fantasized about winning more.

  19. Inertia
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 10:02 AM | Permalink

    Added my $10.33 for another entry and my place in the fan auction. And we’re even in Wisconsin, so think how easy it’d be to add me as a beta reader!

    • Posted January 30, 2014 at 12:35 PM | Permalink

      That means we can probably talk about the story over coffee if you win….

      • General_Disaray
        Posted January 30, 2014 at 12:49 PM | Permalink

        You really should come to Los Angeles for Coffee, it’s 63 degrees today, vs. your 7-22… There’s all kinds of coffee shops too.

  20. dani0914
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 10:04 AM | Permalink

    Made another donation last night. Almost to the 433,420.00 goal! On a different note greetings from Night Vale. Just recently started listening to those and they are great and rather creepy.

    • Brett
      Posted January 30, 2014 at 4:42 PM | Permalink

      It’s okay, just don’t go into, walk past, look at, or talk about the dog park. Then you might be safe.

  21. Posted January 30, 2014 at 10:05 AM | Permalink

    I want… nothing more in my life right now to be able to get a chance at ANY of what you are specifically releasing.
    I’m frothing at the damn mouth for book three.
    Alas, I have surgery coming up super soon, and with that in mind I cannot afford to donate… but I gotta tell you..That makes me want to Break things.But of course, that would be pretty counter-productive.
    I can’t wait to hear/see more about the world you’ve created , and the currency looks FANTASTIC!

  22. tanis0
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 10:06 AM | Permalink

    I can’t tell you how excited I am for the possibility, however slim, of beta-reading a story about Auri. This is easily my second favorite thing in the lottery, just after having you read a manuscript.

    • Taravangian
      Posted January 30, 2014 at 10:24 PM | Permalink

      I’m fairly certain Pat reading a manuscript was auctioned, not part of the lottery. But between the awesome stretch goals, awesome lottery prizes, special prizes for Pat’s fans as outlined in this post, and just giving back to help people in need… There are still more than enough reasons to donate!

      • tanis0
        Posted January 31, 2014 at 12:58 PM | Permalink

        I probably should have been more specific — I’m assuming a favor from Pat will be in the lottery (I could be wrong) and that’s what I’d use it for if I won. :)

  23. ginfur
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 10:08 AM | Permalink

    You had me at beta reader :) What you are doing for Worldbuilders is wonderful, compassionate and pretty darn amazing. Though I don’t have much, I donated what I could to help. Thank you for what you do for this organization and for your readers/fans. You know just where tug on our heartstrings.

    Just checked and looks like you will definitely bypass the original goal ;) Currently raised: $434,293.25! And climbing!

  24. XETWS
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 10:09 AM | Permalink

    I can’t donate because the STATE camp keeps blank !!!!!!

    • Papoula
      Posted January 30, 2014 at 10:47 AM | Permalink

      Yes, you can donate even with no state. I just did.
      That just means you’re not from the US.

  25. Sherp
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 10:11 AM | Permalink

    Hmm, I’m curious: Why would a leak of Book 3 before its release be catastrophic, while pirated versions after its release are part of business as usual?

    • Uncanny Valet
      Posted January 30, 2014 at 10:13 AM | Permalink

      Because people are jerks and will spoil the heck out of it, just to upset fans. Remember when people were lining up for Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, and trolls drove by or came by with big signs saying “SO-AND-SO DIES”?

      • Oatmeal
        Posted January 30, 2014 at 10:37 AM | Permalink

        This. Also, that would mean that it’s leaked before it’s technically completed. Which means a book would be running around that could be vastly different compared to the finished product, depending upon what the Betas had to say …

  26. Uncanny Valet
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 10:15 AM | Permalink

    Quick question about the Faerie Stones: will they protect you from the effects of reading poetry, if you read through the little hole in the middle?

    • Brett
      Posted January 30, 2014 at 4:47 PM | Permalink

      I believe if you read poetry through a Faerie Stone, the writing turns into scarab beetle footprints–not poetry, but at the same time, eerily beautiful. If you watch poetry through it, like Pat’s “Wizard’s Staff” poem, the reading just becomes a discussion of what’s cuter–puppies, kittens, or tiny bearded dragons.

  27. theonlykaren
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 10:15 AM | Permalink

    By the eyes of Taborlin the Great, what a fantastic opportunity! I edit my friends’ stuff….short stories, novellas, poetry, etc, but it all pales in comparison to being a Beta Reader for Patrick Rothfuss. Heading over to donate NOW!!!!

  28. scout458
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 10:20 AM | Permalink

    Mathematically, magically, philosophically, spiritually, three is a number of great portent. I made my 3rd donation today. It’s a charm! It’s a hat trick! It’s a giant triple scoop of delicious goodness. Genius, Mr. Rothfuss, pure genius.

  29. larissasomaio
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 10:21 AM | Permalink

    Even if I’m from Brazil will you mail me a copy of this holy manuscript?

    • larissasomaio
      Posted January 30, 2014 at 10:21 AM | Permalink

      Yes, you have HUGE fans here too

      • larissasomaio
        Posted January 30, 2014 at 10:23 AM | Permalink

        ok, just saw your answer. :)

  30. Posted January 30, 2014 at 10:24 AM | Permalink

    I bought bees!

  31. kyfty
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 10:31 AM | Permalink

    Well, you couldn’t have possibly offered anything more enticing to get me to donate. I’d *love* to be a beta reader for anything you write, whether it’s Kvothe related or not!

  32. Posted January 30, 2014 at 10:34 AM | Permalink

    This is an amazing opportunity. Critiquing is what I do pretty much all the time for my classwork. I think it would be A+ to be able to beta read for ya. Anyway! I admire all the work you’re doing here! Best of luck to all!

  33. Deanna_Michelle
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 10:42 AM | Permalink

    Oh man….oh man oh man oh man….

    I need to find a Doctor & a TARDIS to time travel me back 16 years and meet you Pat, or just hope my donations get me a beta slot. What I would give to read it and proof it and share thoughts with you!

  34. Posted January 30, 2014 at 10:43 AM | Permalink

    We killed the thermometer! $500k here we come!

  35. Ritsenki
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 10:46 AM | Permalink

    I just checked my bank to see how much more I could give before the fundraiser ends. Turns out my summerjob last year made a mistake, and owed me a bit of money which they paid first thing this month.

  36. kysenp
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 10:59 AM | Permalink

    Oh goodness, there goes my money.
    It feels a little strange to be donating for such selfish reasons, but I am really hoping to get a chance to read some of your work. Of course the idea of having a chat with you about it is the cream cheese frosting on an already delicious cupcake.
    Way to be awesome everyone that donated!!!

  37. chaelek
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 11:06 AM | Permalink

    Pat offers three chances to maybe sort of one day become a beta reader, and the amount raised surges up over 30,000 in like, three hours.

    That’s insane. You’re basically turning the powerful geek love many of us feel for you into hope for hundreds and thousands of families around the world.

    That’s some Christ on the Mount shit right there.

    ..well, sort of, anyway.

    • Neville Longbottom
      Posted January 30, 2014 at 11:30 AM | Permalink

      You know what Harvey Milk said…

      You gotta tell ’em what they already feel. And you GOTTA give ’em hope.

  38. Fluffyeti
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 11:15 AM | Permalink

    Dear Sir,

    I did not know, when I picked up The Name of the Wind a few years ago, that it was a trap set with a barb that would seek out my heart. Nor did I know that the barb, so lodged, attached to a shimmering and invisible line crafted from the words, ideas, characters therein, strong enough to be pulled and felt from such a distance. Yet pull you have with these stakes, and I can only be grateful.

    Another flock of chicks incoming.

    • Neville Longbottom
      Posted January 30, 2014 at 11:28 AM | Permalink

      You have the best profile name I have ever seen on any blog, anywhere…

      • Fluffyeti
        Posted January 30, 2014 at 11:56 AM | Permalink

        Hah! Thanks very much!

  39. NinjaofDoom
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 11:17 AM | Permalink

    Just when there was no other NotW stuff to collect from Tinker’s/ebay/Kickstarter, this appears. Woo!

    Donation sent! Good on ya Mr. Rothfuss.

  40. ZakC
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 11:18 AM | Permalink

    I’m thirteen, would I still be eligible to be a beta reader?

    • Brett
      Posted January 30, 2014 at 4:51 PM | Permalink

      If you can read and have strong opinions, yes. You would have a unique perspective that we old people lack. ;)

  41. Robertk
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 11:24 AM | Permalink

    I would give almost anything to Beta some of your work, Patrick. In the time before you were on all the best-selling lists around I was reading your work. Allow me the honor to read and analyse your book as someone who has read both,”The Name of the Wind,” and ” Wise Man’s Fear.” Email: robkearn2@gmail dot com

  42. Neville Longbottom
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 11:25 AM | Permalink

    I think, given the chance, some very large percentage of the readers of this blog would like to know what the opposite of a Faerie stone is….

    I’d know it’s a mistake to willingly attract the attention of the fae….while I did it.

  43. RachelCarlton
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 11:34 AM | Permalink

    Look at the speed of those donation $ go up! It is beautiful!

  44. Leon
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 11:36 AM | Permalink

    Did Heifer ever thought about accepting different paying methods?
    I would love to donate, I really do, but neither do I have a creditcard nor am I planning on getting one. What about a Paypal account? Is it so difficult to create one?

    • Oatmeal
      Posted January 30, 2014 at 11:53 AM | Permalink

      You can always purchase a pre-paid credit card from any grocery store.

      • TreffnonX
        Posted January 31, 2014 at 11:11 AM | Permalink

        Nope, not in germany you can’t…
        Have this same problem. Would like to donate, but there seems to be no way to do so without getting a credit card (which in germany are barely accepted anywhere and are simply just a debt trap). Please make PayPal an option for next year! People from outside the US want to contribute as well :[

        • eldrelore
          Posted January 31, 2014 at 9:51 PM | Permalink

          I suppose this is also and opening for a business to submit donations (or payments in general) on your behalf and accept pay pal reimbursements. If they don’t already exist then it’s probably too late for them to get up and running for this fundraiser.

          I say business as there would need to be record keeping and etc for accountability. There are probably a lot of individuals who would be willing out of kindness. I’d do it for any close friend that I could be sure I was actually speaking with and not someone pretending to be them. But if transactions actually started happening then there would be an incentive for those with malicious intent to hide amongst the generally helpful in various levels of disguise. As well as hide amongst the wishing to donate.

          • TreffnonX
            Posted February 1, 2014 at 6:50 PM | Permalink

            I don’t really see how adding a payment option to an already existing welfare adds new options for malintenders or adds to the issue of account keeping… but maybe I misunderstand your point entirely =D

  45. Posted January 30, 2014 at 11:46 AM | Permalink

    Hmmm… this sounds suspiciously like add-a-goat-to-my-donation news. Is anyone else getting that feeling from it? Yeah, I just checked with Heifer, and this is definitely some add-a-goat-to-my-donation news.

  46. auriismyhero
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 11:58 AM | Permalink

    So this is my first time commenting on any authors blog ever so bear with me.

    Pat, first I would like to thank you for the books. They changed my life in more ways than one. When things were not so great in the world of Carolyn I was always able to turn to your books and it was like having a friend that would always be there to help me through.

    Second thank you for all your amazing charity work it is truly inspiring. it makes me want to be a better person. You and Auri are kind of my heros.

    And last but not least I am so excited about the possibility of becoming a beta reader, it would rock my world. I am absolutely obsessed with everything you do. So thank you again for enriching the lives of everyone around you, whether its through your books or your charity work.

    Basically your amazing and a true inspiration

  47. KingOCarrotFlowers
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 12:05 PM | Permalink

    Well, you’ve convinced me to donate to Heifer International. I finally got around to researching the charity and decided that I believe in it, which isn’t something I’d say lightly.

    And the opportunity to win a chance to be a beta reader for you is too good to pass up. I can guarantee you that if I end up winning the beta read of the Auri book, you’ll end up wanting me to beta read Doors of Stone. I am good at providing commentary on my reading.

  48. Niki
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 12:12 PM | Permalink

    Gosh, the last time I was on the edge of my seat because of a lottery someone got stoned to death (thank you ).

    • Niki
      Posted January 30, 2014 at 12:13 PM | Permalink

      Sorry, I don’t know code, that was meant to say (thank you shirley jackson). There is a link that you can click in that post.

      • Brett
        Posted January 30, 2014 at 4:56 PM | Permalink

        I got your reference immediately, and thought the Secret Link was a sly clue. Just sit back and say, “Yeah, I’m awesome. Look how I did that, all on-purpose-like.”

        • Oatmeal
          Posted January 30, 2014 at 5:26 PM | Permalink

          Me too.

  49. Mathilde224
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 12:12 PM | Permalink

    As a young student (between studies…) I have next to no money. I have been following Worldbuilders (and you, Pat) since the very beginning and am in awe of how big and succesfull it has grown. I’ve many times (guiltily) thought to my self – next year – next year when I have more money – next year I will donate. And this time, this year, you made it impossible for me not to. For just the tiniest chance of being your beta reader I had to donate. And since I’m not the kind of person who wins stuff in contests and the like…. Well, the chance is REALLY tiny – but fingers crossed – and no matter what, my money will give some family somewhere a goat. Or part of a goat. Maybe a goat’s leg. It will have contributed to a goat – at the very least. Thanks for being a lovely human being :)
    – Mathilde

  50. Posted January 30, 2014 at 12:22 PM | Permalink

    Hey Pat,

    You know how much I love your books – I think I managed to tell you so in enough embarrassing detail in Brighton (where I too picked up fairy stones on the beach, despite doing it in a hurricane!). To be a Beta Reader would be an honour and a privilege, and very nearly something I would give my firstborn to a Chandrian for, but since he’s also an avid fan, perhaps I’d better not. You’d lose a reader.

    I’ve donated as much as I can. I’ve been meaning to for some time, since Worldbuilders is such a great thing to support, but this spurred me on to actually do it. If I won the draw, I’d be happier than an Edema Ruh with a new song.

    Lucy x

    PS: Hope Oot enjoyed the little Bear book. I guess Cutie is still a little too young to be read to!

  51. atermiclord
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 12:23 PM | Permalink

    Awesome!
    Though i tried to donate and couldn’t thanks to a series of super annoying laws that don’t allow argentinian people to spend dollars freely with our credit cards.
    Sucks
    A LOT

  52. Posted January 30, 2014 at 12:26 PM | Permalink

    This years Worldbuilders has been full of too much awesome. I can never donate as much as I would like, but I totally got the approval to donate a quantity just because of this beta reader/currency thing.
    I also was able to take the opportunity you offered through GOG, which was super awesome, because $5.00. It was something I could afford to loose. Sometimes even $10.00 goes a long way in my life. So I really appreciated being able to give SOMETHING at least.
    Thanks for all the opportunities this year Pat, you are an awesome person, last nights hang out was super fun as well, and really long, your time and effort is much appreciated, even if my monetary donation doesn’t scream thank you as much as I’d like it too.
    Hopefully a few of us poor people can ban together in our donations to make it worthwhile for Heifers efforts.

  53. Posted January 30, 2014 at 12:32 PM | Permalink

    Well. Wow. Looks like it’s been busy since I went to sleep.

    I think I have a new favorite way of waking up….

    • mutinyonthebay
      Posted January 30, 2014 at 12:41 PM | Permalink

      Jesus… $45k in 6 hours. Not bad ;)

  54. darlinkaty
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 12:32 PM | Permalink

    Shit, most of us are going to donate the extra $10.33 just for the chance of the getting the phone call for Pat to pick our brains. Which would mostly entail, “Uhhhh, uhhhh, hi. I really like your words on paper.”
    I kinda hope I win a fairy ring.

  55. RachelCarlton
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 12:44 PM | Permalink

    Im going to throw a random idea out there to generate more funds for WorldBuilders, maybe to be used next year… Look into partnering with REI: ask them to donate one of their adventure treks as a prize. They are known for community work and support.

  56. DoctorAvenue
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 1:20 PM | Permalink

    I’ve been trying to donate for an hour, but it won’t move past the screen where you enter your credit card info. *sigh*

  57. Andy
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 1:21 PM | Permalink

    I got overly excited and donated $33.33. $3 of good karma!

    Worldbuilders is a better problem to have than heroin. I call it a win.

  58. wallnuss
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 1:23 PM | Permalink

    I think this is an appropriated time and place to say: Shut up and take my money.

    My heart rate went up through the roof after reading: “beta reader” and the adrenaline and serotonin wave still hasn’t worn off.

    On a different note any chance that your tour schedule may include Chicago or Indianapolis in the coming months? I know that one should not ask such questions, but I am leaving the States again in a few months and you Mr. Rothfuss are coming so seldomly over the pond to good ol’ Europe.

    I think I need to lay down for a while :)

  59. BigZ7337
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 1:28 PM | Permalink

    I donated again, although I’m not sure which I’d want more, the coin set, or the opportunity to be a beta reader (probably this). :)

  60. Jhunter85
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 1:46 PM | Permalink

    I just want to double check:

    If I donate $120.33 I am giving a family a goat or sheep, and giving myself 12 entries into both raffles? Meaning, I have 12 chances to win .33 things and 12 chances to win the other stuff that isn’t .33 things? Or is it a combined 12 for both?

    Either way, I am in.

    • Brett
      Posted January 30, 2014 at 5:02 PM | Permalink

      Pat’s 3s are in the general lottery, but will only be pulled for folks with that extra .33. So that would be a total of 12 chances, but each chance will include the possibility to win one of the 3s.

      Does that make sense? My thinking brain is shutting down already.

      • Jhunter85
        Posted January 30, 2014 at 5:09 PM | Permalink

        Thanks!

      • Justin
        Posted January 31, 2014 at 1:32 PM | Permalink

        When does the pull for Pat’s 3s occur?

        The lottery has always worked on a without replacement system. If you buy one ticket, you have exactly one chance to win one item. But if you buy 12 tickets, you can win 12 distinct things, but no more. Let’s say someone contributes $10.33 because they want a shot a Pat’s 3s.

        If the pull for general items comes first, and he or she win, that would theoretically remove that ticket, and he or she would no longer have a shot at Pat’s 3s.

  61. Julia
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 1:57 PM | Permalink

    After being a silent reader of your blogs for so long, I have decided to register so I can leave feedback for the first time.
    I am a huge fan of your books (obvs), and it makes it all the better that you are such an inspiration, Pat. They say, (whoever *they* are) that you shouldn’t meet your idols. But I think I would get on just swell with you.
    I recently missed an opportunity to meet you while you where in the U.K and have only just stopped kicking myself that I didn’t get my ass into gear. But, I have received a postcard from you about 2 years ago now, that can only be described as awesome, and thank you so much for that. It has drawing of a scrael on the front with the inscription ‘There’s no such thing as demons’. AMAZING. I don’t think I will ever get enough of your books, they will be by my side for the rest of my life.
    So here’s to you, Pat. And here’s to hoping we can knock last years total donations out of the park!! I’ve donated some trees for Worldbuilders with my added .33 for my chance at the lotto!
    Thank you. So very much.

  62. amrhjefa
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 1:57 PM | Permalink

    Yay for donations and the chance at beta reading, among the other cool stuff.
    Now to camp out on my computer and wait for the winners to be announced….showers aren’t necessary unless you are around others right?

  63. Serukis
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 2:10 PM | Permalink

    This is probably a silly question.

    I donated $20.33, and then I accidentally refreshed the page and it donated another $20.33, bringing my donation total to $40.66.

    Does this mean I’m still eligible? I’m thinking yes, but I don’t really know what happened with the double donation. I just know I got two emails with two separate receipt numbers. XD

    • Brett
      Posted January 30, 2014 at 5:31 PM | Permalink

      Hi Serukis–good news! We’ll be looking at several different spreadsheet for exactly this. When we cross-reference donations, we’ll have a list of individual donations, we we’ll see both of your $22.33 donations as well as the $40.66 total.

      We got your back.

      • Serukis
        Posted January 31, 2014 at 4:59 AM | Permalink

        Ah, awesome. :) Thanks for the reply!

        It doesn’t matter about winning anything, anyway. We’re doing some good! :D

  64. Gavin enlow
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 2:20 PM | Permalink

    This is incredibly cool! Thanks Pat for the opportunity (if you will forgive a hunger games reference generic as it is may the odd be ever in my favor). People are going to donate so much money the competition is going to be fierce. *Wishing I had more money to give

  65. Azemar
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 2:26 PM | Permalink

    Pat, this is my firsttime commenting here, and I’m a little nervous, I’m a big fan.
    I’m from Brazil, and tried to donate now because I’m a big fan of the Kingkiller series, and I couldn’t donate, every time I tried, the site said the “data could not be saved”, the question I’m about to make, may sound a bit ridiculous, but, does my credit card have to be international for me to make a donation? If so, I won’t be able to participate =/
    Here in Brazil is very very veery difficult(the word that I’m trying not to use is impossible) to find products of the series, we just found the books, when we find, so when I see these ‘events’ that you make, I stay here like a crazy person wanting to participate, but most of the times I can’t. Well, going back to the original point, does my credit card has to be international? Sorry if this question is stupid, I’m just hoping that you say “no” to the question. Bye.

    • juliosd
      Posted January 30, 2014 at 3:06 PM | Permalink

      Azemar, como o valor é em dólar provavelmente tem que ser um cartão internacional sim. Se você quiser eu faço uma doação em seu nome se você depositar o dinheiro na minha conta.

    • Brett
      Posted January 30, 2014 at 5:34 PM | Permalink

      Hi Azemar!
      We’re too close to the end of the fundraiser to help with this, but I will talk with Heifer International about the best way to donate from Brazil.
      In the mean time, we can’t recommend that you send your money to someone else for them to donate on your behalf. We would rather you wait until next year’s fundraiser when we figure out how you can donate directly–it’s safer that way.
      Thank you!

      • juliosd
        Posted January 30, 2014 at 8:07 PM | Permalink

        You are right, Brett. It’s not safe to have someone donate on your behalf. However, I’m willing to take the risk myself. If Azemar wants I can donate first, send him the confirmation and get the money after.

        If he doesn’t pay me the money still goes to worldbuilders, which is not that bad.

        • Azemar
          Posted January 31, 2014 at 2:04 PM | Permalink

          Thanks Brett and juliosd, but I’ll wait until next time then, it’s better for everyone. But please be sure to think about us from Brazil ok? Thanks ;)

  66. Hadria013
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 2:58 PM | Permalink

    So here´s my problem, I donated before seeing this post, but I accidentally added an email that I can´t open at the moment (kind of forgot the password). Yesterday this didn´t bother me because in Worldbuilders they said that if you win you aren´t notified by email, the book just arrives… but now I going mad because I want to donate more but don´t know if even by adding the same name, my previous donation wouldn´t add up to the new one because of the different email. Is there any way I can solve this?

    • Brett
      Posted January 30, 2014 at 5:36 PM | Permalink

      This is a similar problem to what Serukis mentioned above. We’ll be looking over several different spreadsheets with the donations broken down by different criteria. Even if your email addresses don’t match, we’ll figure it out!

      • Hadria013
        Posted January 30, 2014 at 7:49 PM | Permalink

        Thank you very very much… for answering and fixing my problem. You guys are amazing, this means a lot to me. Wish me luck!

  67. lodi16b
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 3:08 PM | Permalink

    Nice! I bet Auri has a fantastically adventurous story to tell. She’s one of my favorite characters in the series…

  68. Posted January 30, 2014 at 3:10 PM | Permalink

    And this is the day the internet broke! lol I tried to get onto the worldbuilders website to see when the end date is and couldn’t because it’s so backed up (through February 2nd Central time)
    While I would have exploded, carefully so as not to ruin the manuscript, if I got the chance to beta read book 3 I LOVE Auri and would love to read a novella about her, and hopefully learn something about her history!

  69. S.Valis
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 3:26 PM | Permalink

    *sobs* I want to do this so badly but I cannot because my life sucks right now financially and there is no room on my credit card because we used it for rent. :( If I had the space on my card I don’t care that I have nothing in terms of cash, I would do it anyway. GAH I want the beta reader win so badly… can you change it so we can pay by bank or paypal or something too?

  70. Posted January 30, 2014 at 4:08 PM | Permalink

    Less than 20k to go ’til Green Eggs & Ham.

    • Posted January 30, 2014 at 5:23 PM | Permalink

      Less than 15k!

      • Taravangian
        Posted January 30, 2014 at 6:20 PM | Permalink

        Less than $10,000 now. And with 3 days still to go! At this rate, maybe we’ll need one or two more stretch goals. :)

        • Posted January 30, 2014 at 7:04 PM | Permalink

          Less than $7K now!!

          • Posted January 30, 2014 at 7:32 PM | Permalink

            UGh. I can feel myself clicking to donate again. It’s going to happen. I like round numbers so whatever is over the higest hundred mark in my bank account. Because I am a multihundredaire.

  71. cameronhopkin
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 4:12 PM | Permalink

    Holy CRAP I want those coins so badly. I don’t even know why.

  72. D_
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 4:17 PM | Permalink

    The next Blog post will be titled “In which Pat discovers that his popularity is several Gaimans higher than previously suspected, or the Power of Rothfuss people.”

    • Posted January 30, 2014 at 4:26 PM | Permalink

      I have never heard Gaiman used as a unit of measure. :D

      • Oatmeal
        Posted January 30, 2014 at 5:33 PM | Permalink

        Pat set up a whole algorithm (I have no idea if that’s the right word … something math-ish anyhow) to determine coolness in Gaiman-Day units. If you use the search box above you should be able to find it fairly easily. You should read it, it’s pretty entertaining.

        • Posted January 30, 2014 at 5:51 PM | Permalink

          I don’t know how I missed that in my nearly-obsessive scanning of this website, lol.

          • Oatmeal
            Posted January 30, 2014 at 6:17 PM | Permalink

            I only know because I once spent a particularly slow week at work reading every single blog entry in order.
            :o)

  73. WickedBlue
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 4:34 PM | Permalink

    Dear Pat,

    Even the deeply improbable, stars-distant prospect of a beta reader slot was like being targeted by a Scanner. The only way to stop my head from exploding was to donate to the cause.

    Well played.

    • Brett
      Posted January 30, 2014 at 5:38 PM | Permalink

      Extra points for the Scanners reference. Well played indeed.

  74. Matt
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 4:42 PM | Permalink

    Have duly geeked out, donated, mildly panicked about unannounced currency conversion taking place, and now have that warm (yet slightly self satisfied) glow of doing good with an infinitesimal chance of reward.

    Though if my mortgage application defaults next month on account of 33 cents, I may hold you personally responsible.

    As above comments, a fundraising masterstroke. Congratulations to you and all the team for outstanding work!

  75. FollowYourMuse
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 6:16 PM | Permalink

    Ok donated again,

    I love Worldbuilders, and have donated for the last several years, though I do not have a lot of extra, I think this is worth every bit I can. This year all my kids got gifts from the Tinkers pack.

    But this was just too good to pass up :)

  76. Knightrous
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 6:28 PM | Permalink

    Your subtle mental manipulations worked on me, earlier.

    I decided to double up my contribution, so far, so went over to Heifer to make a further $30.33 donation. Something was bothering me, however, and when I got home from work I checked my e-mail to find that I had, in fact, made a $33.33 donation instead.

    You, sir, are an utter, utter fiend!

    Have you possibly considered a change of career, mesmerist per chance?

  77. Posted January 30, 2014 at 7:42 PM | Permalink

    Thankyou.

  78. Posted January 30, 2014 at 8:01 PM | Permalink

    Get ready, my friends! Green Eggs & Ham time!!

  79. spoonyspork
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 9:00 PM | Permalink

    **finally** got around to donating. I’ve been reading these blogs, laughing, crying, sharing them with others to entice them to donate… and kicking myself that I hadn’t donated yet. Meant to at the very first announcement, but I couldn’t remember my log in info and suspected I’d have to call someone, which I *hate*. Isn’t that stupid?

    Did double last year’s in honor of my wonderful mom in law, who was also a fan. She would approve of a goat donation, I think.

    This is such wonderful work you guys do! Thank you!

  80. Posted January 30, 2014 at 9:21 PM | Permalink

    Thanks Pat! Just donated a flock of chicks :)

  81. Karaminxe
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 11:17 PM | Permalink

    Question: I had bought a double jumbo mystery book bundle way back in November and just now contributed to Heifer in an amount ending in .33; does the total count towards the Worldbuilders lottery/special Rothery?
    Thanks Pat and keep being you!

  82. sheepeez
    Posted January 30, 2014 at 11:37 PM | Permalink

    Awesome! I’m buying someone some chicks. Hope I win something! I recently bought the Earnest game bundle for my husband for our anniversary (romantic, I know), does that count?

    • Amanda
      Posted January 31, 2014 at 1:18 PM | Permalink

      Only donations made on the team page count toward lottery entries, so the chicks you bought count, it’s just the games that don’t.

  83. The Andy
    Posted January 31, 2014 at 1:17 AM | Permalink

    Alas, getting a server error while trying to donate. I think we broke it…

    Server Error in ‘/’ Application.

    • The Andy
      Posted January 31, 2014 at 1:24 AM | Permalink

      After entering in all my info, now I get “The following error(s) must be corrected before continuing:
      EVENTID”.

  84. TheManiacWoodpecker
    Posted January 31, 2014 at 2:05 AM | Permalink

    Just to make it absolutely clear for me. I logged in on teamheifer.heifer.org joined the Worldbuilders 2013-2014 clicked on the “donate field” and donated 100.33 Dollars. That was the correct way to get entered into the lottery for the special prices right?
    What confuses me is the phrase donate directly to Heifer International.

    Thanks for clearing things up for me. i would hate it, if i did something “wrong”. this is my first donation to worldbuilders/heifer ever. so the process wasnt entirely clear.

    • Amanda
      Posted January 31, 2014 at 11:52 AM | Permalink

      That’s right, you’re all entered.

  85. Sandhya
    Posted January 31, 2014 at 2:59 AM | Permalink

    When I read this post I work today all I could think of was, “Fuck, I’m not worthy! What if I won the Beta reader thingy!?!?! ”
    But wth…gonna go for it anyway. Mr. Rothfuss if I win it with both may be in trouble.

  86. sandibd
    Posted January 31, 2014 at 9:14 AM | Permalink

    Ok, I know the end of the donation only had to be .33…but since I am not well off myself, I bumped up my $25.33 donation to $33.33 just to get into the spirit of it all.

  87. pikeamus
    Posted January 31, 2014 at 10:57 AM | Permalink

    It occurs to me know that I don’t know how people are identified for the lottery at all. Is it just through email address on the donation form? I can’t remember which email address I entered when I last donated so if it is I’d better find out which before donating again.

    If you need to register for an account for it to be tracked then I may have buggered myself over last time, as I just donated as quickly as I could when Brandon Sanderson announced his stretch target reward without even thinking about the lottery.

    • Amanda
      Posted January 31, 2014 at 11:51 AM | Permalink

      No worries there – you didn’t mess anything up. As long as you put in the correct name and address, you’re fine. We don’t contact individual winners or announce them, so people who win will simply be surprised with a package :)

  88. Brian
    Posted January 31, 2014 at 11:40 AM | Permalink

    Pat, are you some kind of wizard? I donated right in the beginning and I would have said there was no was I was going to donate again. But here we are. Second donation is in the books.

    Thanks for everything you’re doing. It’s awesome. I shudder to think what could happen if your wizardry was turned against the world.

  89. Posted January 31, 2014 at 11:45 AM | Permalink

    Am I seeing this right? Over $100k raised in less than 24 hours! Go team!

  90. Pyratheon
    Posted January 31, 2014 at 2:02 PM | Permalink

    As I am still a poor(ish) student this year, I shall be donating $20 again. :) … .33

    Hope the event turns out well, and I look forward to your future works.

    God, my comments are so lame. Serves me right for putting a comment out sober.

  91. erikharrison
    Posted January 31, 2014 at 3:20 PM | Permalink

    Something about the rhythm of “Who wants to be a beta reader” puts the Drunken Sailor shanty right into the sticky part of my brain. I foist it upon you as a way of freeing it to irritate others.

    Who wants to be a beta reader?
    Who wants to be a beta reader?
    Who wants to be a beta reader?
    Who wants to be a beta reader
    For a book by Patrick Rothfuss?

    We’d all like to read a bit about Auri
    We’d all like to read a bit about Auri
    We’d all like to read a bit about Auri
    From a book by Patrick Rothfuss.

    But who’s got the balls to wield a red pen now?
    Who’s got the balls to wield a red pen now?
    Who’s got the balls to wield a red pen now
    On a book by Patrick Rothfuss?

    If you’ve got guts then give to Heifer!
    If you’ve got guts then give to Heifer!
    If you’ve got guts then give to Heifer
    For a book by Patrick Rothfuss!

    • Linnet
      Posted January 31, 2014 at 10:39 PM | Permalink

      It is true!

    • Posted February 1, 2014 at 9:39 AM | Permalink

      Ohhhh…
      I want to be a beta reader
      With a handle of Cap’n and a Coke 2 liter
      This line’s here just for the meter
      drunk and early in the morning!

  92. heathernicole
    Posted January 31, 2014 at 6:02 PM | Permalink

    I donated for the first time today, after following for the past couple years (and while suffocating under the mountain that is my student debt). I thought I should do my part since I’ve been enjoying the stretch goals and I can’t wait for the drunken HII review. I also think I might die of laughter during the real Pat/Fake Pat Fan Fic vid. I’m really just hoping that my .33 will result in being long distance bff’s with PR. But supplying some families with a sustainable income & food source is a pretty damn good consolation prize & is directly related to my own career/passions. Thanks PR and the rest of you World Builders. Super cool. :)

  93. Damo
    Posted January 31, 2014 at 7:01 PM | Permalink

    “Who wants to be a beta reader?” – 7 words. How can I resist that?

    The Cealdish currency looks incredible. I love the trapezoidal design. I’m curious though; the stamped insignia is not overly complicated. I’m guessing later examples became more complicated to make it harder to forge? Or, possibly money lenders had some other way of detecting forgeries. Perhaps alchemy? Sim would know.

    Fascinating to see the evolution of the currency, regardless. Excellent idea, Pat.

    I think I might have to get a drab so I can practice my sympathy….

  94. chrisahunter
    Posted February 2, 2014 at 12:47 AM | Permalink

    Thanks for the amazing opportunity. I would love to be a beta reader. I wouldn’t mind some of the amazing swag I have seen donated either. Hence, I have donated $33.33 and rolled the dice . . .

    – Chris Hunter

  95. jowgoat
    Posted February 3, 2014 at 7:19 AM | Permalink

    I cannot donate :( I want to donate a .33 amount and I’ve been trying for days! Either the Heifer page doesn’t load at all, or if it does then after I type in an amount and click continue, it doesn’t load that. I’m heading to my parets’ place and I’ll try on their computer but can’t really see why it would make a difference…

  96. Narm_ga
    Posted February 4, 2014 at 12:31 PM | Permalink

    never been so excited to buy bees. must become a beta reader

  97. Lindi
    Posted February 4, 2014 at 3:17 PM | Permalink

    Wow,an Auri novella, is maybe even more appealing to me than the kingkiller-trilogy :)

    but honestly, something that I have only a chance of beeing given if I donate, is hardly a freely-given “gift”, isn’t it ?!?!?!

    …. wait, one more thing: first beta reader of an auri novella, then maybe beta reader of the third kingkiller book??? …. seems like we have to wait a while before the third book will be published …. ;)

  98. Max H
    Posted February 5, 2014 at 9:56 AM | Permalink

    Ahhhhh! Blackened bodies of tiny gods! So I just finished the first two books (discovered on a hunch after digging through the Stacks that are the entries of the Torment: Tides of Numenera Kickstarter pages), hacked into Google to find this blog (plain old search is so last season!), soiled myself in excitement at the notion of the opportunity to be Pat’s beta reader, got out my wallet…. and found out that the fundraiser ended yesterday. Have I mentioned the blackened bodies of tiny gods yet? To be honest they are less blackened and more like charred, or even burned to a crisp. Damn! I am willing to donate any reasonable dollar amount ending with any cent value to any cause (including lessons on reading Ilysh knots) to get in on this thing. Is there any way this side of the Fae?

  99. Crimsyn Seraph
    Posted February 23, 2014 at 12:33 AM | Permalink

    So Pat, I’ve been trying to figure out what your currencies would be equivalent of in modern dollars. I think I have it mostly figured out, though it may be a tad on the expensive side.

    In Tarbean, Kvothe says “Two pennies was the same as a loaf of bread”. Back in the 1700’s bread sold for 2 pence in England(Johnhearfield.com). or 380 pence with inflation(safalra.com/other/historical-uk-inflation-price-conversion) back then it was 240 pence to a pound, whereas today it’s 100 pence/pound, so I decided that dividing 380 by 240 would give me a decimal and be equivalent to modern pounds. 1.6 pounds is 2.6 dollars. So 1 iron penny = $1.3, 1 shim would then = 43 cents. 1100 shims per talent gives us $473 dollars for a talent.

    Does that sound like what you’ve figured?

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