THURSDAY:

5pm: The Line Between Novelty and Gimmicks

Stories centered on novel or original things often draw readers in, but gimmicky writing often turns them off. Where is the line, and how do we learn to feel when we’ve crossed it? 

A213

Storm Humbert, Carlos Hernandez, Addie J. King

FRIDAY:

4pm: The Rewards and Challenges of Writing Series

What makes some authors decide to start series? What makes a series worthwhile? What are some of the unique challenges that come with writing multiple books in a single universe? How do you start, how do you keep it going, and how do you wrap things up? Let’s discuss! 

A212

Mary Fan, C. S. E. Cooney, Carlos Hernandez, Addie J. King

SATURDAY:

10am: From Game to Story

What is the difference between running a campaign and writing a novel? Where is there crossover? Panelists will discuss the pitfalls of not realizing the discrepancies between the two, and the felicities that come from jumping formats!

A212

Jeri “Red” Shepherd, Matt Forbeck, Kelli Fitzpatrick, K. DeCandido, Carlos Hernandez

1pm: Just Enough Worldbuilding

When writing a novel–or a story–when does worldbuilding interfere with the work of getting a novel done? When does too much detail alienate rather than invite the reader in? Panelists will talk about the ways in which they build their worlds.

A213

Carlos Hernandez, Beth Cato, Storm Humbert, C. S. E. Cooney, Jason Sanford

5pm: Breaking the Rules!

Like a t-shirt, writing advice isn’t one size fits all. Our panelists will go through their favorite writing rules to break, the writing rules they use as their old reliables, and why. Come hear why advice isn’t for everyone!

A213

Jennifer Brozek, Storm Humbert, Carlos Hernandez

SUNDAY:

12pm: The Intersection of Games and Books

How gaming prepares you for authoring books and how books can move into the world of games. Join panelists who find that their work thrives at the cross-section of these two creative areas.

A212

Jeri “Red” Shepherd, Matt Forbeck, Carlos Hernandez, James Lowder