$250 is a lot of money for five paperbacks. But they're signed. And it's for a good cause. (No tax benefit, since I'm technically buying something, but I'm considering it a donation anyway. $250? Justified.) 826National is a network of writing centers, started at 826Valencia in San Francisco by Dave Eggers, et.al, when they founded McSweeney's. It's a great cause, connected to some great writers, producing great work, with a great store. My latest means of support: the Five Books, Five Authors Subscription. Might cut into my grocery budget next month, but I'll be satiated by books until June...
**Check out Dave Eggers' speech, chronicling the birth of 826Valencia, from the 2008 TED Conference.**