Unbound is a new project that opens up the publishing process for authors. There are a number of books proposed by authors, and readers can pledge support at various levels, from 'ebook' to 'lunch', which promises lunch with the author, signed copies, goodie bags, etc.

Its a bit like a dedicated Kickstarter for authors, but I like the way they've set up the various funding levels, using metaphors familiar to book-buyers. They're only taking proposals from published authors at the moment (the launch list includes Terry Jones, Amy Jenkins and Gavin Pretor-Pinney) which means this is far more of an alternative to existing publishing model than a truly crowd-sourced publishing revolution.

ooh - this really, really is lovely. my daughters will *love* it!

Fantastic work by Mr Shirky, as always...