A new resource for new writers

I read about this on the NaNoWriMo forums: HarperCollins has launched an online slush pile.

For people not familiar with the concept of a slush pile, it is where all unsolicited manuscripts go at a literary agent or publisher's. They may get read, they may not.

Authonomy.com works the same way. Writers can upload excerpts or entire manuscripts of unpublished or self-published works.

Internet users read them, and comment and rate them. The top 5 each month are read by HarperCollins staffers.

This is designed to help them find new writers and new books to publish. Among the readers of the manuscripts on the site are literary agents looking for new writers to represent.

It's a great way to use the technology, and the users of the Internet, to help them with their jobs. And, like many things online, it's free to use it. You can also provide links to your self-published works for sale.

For more information check out their site at www.authonomy.com. They have a very detailed FAQ list.

My self-help book that I wrote and self-published is there now. I'll keep my fingers crossed.

Laura