Authors who care, Readers who care

I've been a big fan of Nora Roberts for somewhere near 15 years.  I actually started reading her books back when I was a teenager checking out a dozen or more romance's at a time from the library, but I don't think I hit "fan" status - searching out her books, and putting them in the keeper box (or shelf, depending on the house) til my 20's.

She is an active member of her fan web site, ADWOFF, and after meeting her at a book signing several years ago I can say she was as friendly, warm, and happy to meet her readers in person as she seems in print (and on screen).  She's been a private supporter of several charities over the years, with literacy being a pet cause.  But in the aftermath of Katrina, she has really stepped it up a notch.

Although she was in Europe when the hurricane struck, a drive by her fans was started to raise money for Habitat for Humanity.  A challenge was issued - "I don't mind the matching funds idea, but in point of fact, ADWOFF may not be able to raise the amount I was thinking of donating. Better yet, of course, if you guys surprise me." ~Nora Robert"

As of today, ADWOFF raised over $21,392 so far!

Nora more than matched that.  
“So as a member of ADWOFF, I'll be sending in a check for $500,000.”

To someone who is not only one of my favorite authors, but now has inspired me as a giving person – thank you.