
After discovering the main character in her debut novel
Salvage had been labeled a "slut" on Goodreads,
Alexandra Duncan was inspired to turn the word (and sentiment) around by initiating a giveaway of
Salvage and other books that have been "banned, challenged, or generally derided for including mention of sex and sexuality." Duncan also has offered to donate up to $1,000 to the Freedom to Read Foundation as part of this effort—a dollar for every entrant. And her agent agreed to match the donation!
The
"Slutshelf Giveaway" started April 19 and will run through May 19. Well over 900 people have already entered, meaning she's
very close to maxing out her donation. Duncan has encouraged other bloggers and writers to start their own "Slutshelf Giveaways," and several have taken her up on the idea.
The Freedom to Read Foundation sincerely thanks Ms. Duncan (who is also a librarian!) and her agent Kate Testerman for their generosity. You can follow Alexandra Duncan on Twitter at
@DuncanAlexandra.