An "Infernal" Salon—A Fun, Low-Stakes Writing Workshop
Summary:
An interactive gaming and storytelling event with writers and game designers C. S. E. Cooney and Carlos Hernandez.
Description:
Join C. S. E. Cooney and Carlos Hernandez for a special interactive event. Each participant will be given a prompt of one or more cards from the very spooky deck that C. S. E. Cooney, Carlos Hernandez, and artist Rebecca Huston invented for their TTRPG, "Negocios Infernales." Once every writer has their prompt, they'll set a timer for 20 minutes. When the timer dings, the writers who want to will share their infernally-inspired works with all of us! This dymanic team has run Infernal Salons at cons, charity events, and libraries, and without fail, much revelry and fun is had by all. If you're looking for your next story idea or a way to shatter writer's block, have we got a salon for you! Track: GCWS Event.
Gabrielle Harbowy and James Farner are on agent paths at two different literary agencies. What's that like? Join them for a chat, as they discuss and take your questions!
Black Lace and Candles: The Future of Gothic Fiction
Summary:
Writers discuss current directions in the gothic fiction genre.
Description:
The darkness of the soul, the black and lace aesthetic, the contemplation during midnight hours, the dash across the wind-swept moors: all of these elements have been part of the gothic genre, but what does it mean today? From Victorian gothic roots to southern gothic, non-Eurocentric gothic, and everything in between, join our panel of experts as they examine how this subgenre has permeated in books and pop culture in recent years, and what we can expect from it in the future. Panelists: Sarah Hans (moderator), Richard Lee Byers, Brandon O'Brien, Diana M. Pho. Track: GCWS Genre.
Daniel "Doc" Myers teaches techniques for building a fictional language from the ground up.
Description:
Just a few snippets of a fictional language can add a lot of depth to a story. However, for someone without experience in linguistics, it can be a daunting task to create something that is plausible and isn’t just a code superimposed upon existing grammar. In this seminar, experienced worldbuilder Daniel "Doc" Myers will provide a step-by-step method for constructing a fictional language. Track: GCWS Classroom.
Writer Sandra Tayler teaches techniques to holistically engage your community of readers.
Description:
There is tremendous power in a devoted fanbase, it is a gift and a responsibility. In this workshop, join author Sandra Tayler as she discusses things you can do to encourage a community to build around your own work, making connections between your readers, and why it is far more important to give than to ask. Track: GCWS Classroom.
But This is How I Write: When and How to Talk to Editors About Voice
Summary:
Writers discuss when and how to stand up for one's personal style.
Description:
When an editor suggests changing something that is true to your culture or writing style, how do you decide when to argue for your version without ignoring good advice? Join our panel of expert writers and editors as they discuss developing healthy working relationships with editors, softening barriers in the publishing industry, standing up for your voice, and knowing when to listen. Panelists: Brady McReynolds (moderator), Matt Forbeck, Sarah Hans, Karen Menzel. Track: GCWS Editing.
Writers discuss the importance of reading children's speculative fiction.
Description:
Despite their marketing, children's books are often loaded with difficult themes and powerful messages that resonate with readers older than what may be the target audience. Join our expert panel of writers as they discuss why everyone should read children's speculative fiction. Panelists: George Jreije (moderator), Erin M. Evans, Mary Fan, Jerry Gordon. Track: GCWS Genre.