Advanced Reader Copy—or ARCs—as the publishing world calls them, are not so designated because they are for people whose reading skills are considered high (i.e., advanced) but for people the publisher wishes to read a new book in advance of publication. This is to promote interest among those who can generate interest, or buzz. They are also meant to be review copies, so that reviews of the book appear in vital publications (Library Journal, Booklist, Kirkus Reviews, Publishers Weekly, etc.) around the time the book is actually published, and available. Early responses to ARCs can also suggest to the publisher how the book will be received, so they can change marketing and printing plans. Given the world we live in, it should come as no surprise that these days ARCs are—for eligible folk—available on the internet.
Receiving an ARC of one of my own books brings mixed emotions. It is a pleasure to finally see the book you have written as a real book, looking and feeling like a book, even (most often, but not always) with the cover in place. That said, when the ARCs are created there is often a certain amount of rewriting and proofreading still taking place. Granted, not much, and surely, nothing fundamental. However, it has always bothered me that those who read an ARC are not truly reading the finished book—for better or worse. [I once had a review of a book which referenced something that was in the ARC but had been edited out of the published book.]
Now I just received ARCs of my forthcoming book, Catch You Later, Traitor [Algonquin], which will be published March 10, 2015. So, here’s the deal: We’ll choose ten readers of this blog who enter and request a copy an ARC of the book. Two catches. Know you won’t be reading a truly finished copy. Secondly, you’ll need to drop me a line as to your response to the book. That’s the burden of being an advanced reader.
If you’d like to be considered to receive one of 10 signed Advanced Reader Copies of Catch You Later, Traitor, please fill out the information below. If you are younger than age 13, please have an adult fill out the form for you. Your requests have been received. The giveaway is now closed. We’ll draw 10 names at random and notify the winners by September 20th.
15 thoughts on “The ARCs are In”
Thank you for the opportunity to possibly read an ARC of your work. I would be both honored and excited.
Your books are a favorite at my house. We’ll have to draw sticks to see who will read first. 🙂
My students and I love your books, and are looking forward to reading Catch You Later Traitor. Thank you, Suzanne
Ooh, how exciting! My daughter and I are both going to enter! Thanks for the opportunity.
I’m a Children’s Librarian in MN who loves sharing your books with readers. Hope to hear you speak in April!
Soooo exciting!! I am entering my daughter, she is an avid reader and will give great feedback. We hope we win!!
I would love to be among the 10. ARC’s make me feel like I know a secret that others will have to wait for.
Oh my goodness! What a generous invitation. I love to share your writing with my students! I, too, would be honored.
Pick me!
Thank you for this potential opportunity! If I win I will be honored to read and review it!! 🙂
Another gift for readers if all ages! I know my kids in the classroom and my own daughter are going to be just as thrilled I am to dive into another Avi treasure! Thank you, Avi, for continuing to share your talent! Chris Welling
Thanks so much for opportunity to read ARC of See You Later, Traitor. Fingers crossed!
Ooops! Catch You Later, Traitor! Guess this illustrates the importance of proofreading. Cheeks are burning.
Thank you! I would be delighted to be in the Top 10. Should we have a secret handshake or code word?
Wish me luck!
So excited at the chance to read an ARC! They are so valuable for library staff in knowing what will best fit the needs of their (our) students.