So what does it take to be a writer—whether it's a part-time gig or a full-time job? Just what does it take to make the dream a reality? We will also tackle the topics of family, friends, time, marriage, discipline and deadlines. Panelists: Jean Rabe, Elizabeth Vaughan, Chris Pierson, John Helfers, Don Bingle
Want to write a page-turner? A sizzling suspense yarn? An edge-of-your-seat thriller? Our panelists provide a lesson in nail biting. Panelists: Richard Lee Byers, Tim Waggoner, Jean Rabe, Luke Johnson
Horror writers and editors teach you how to send shivers down your readers' spines. You don't need to write in the horror genre to throw a good scare or three into your story. Panelists: Richard Lee Byers, Luke Johnson, Tim Waggoner, Linda Baker
Writers’ Symposium—Worldbuilding: In other words
Description:
What do calots, lembas, Moradin, and Kakrafoon have in common? They are all words from fictional languages used as background detail in books or games. The panelists will discuss the ways authors and game designers use fictional languages to make their worlds more real, and will reveal their tricks and techniques for making up new languages. Panelists: Tim Waggoner, John Helfers, Daniel Myers, Elizabeth Vaughan, Linda Baker
Writers’ Symposium—Worldbuilding: What to eat on the planet Kriznak
Description:
Harry Potter has his pumpkin juice, and Whorf has his gagh. Just because the food isn't real doesn't mean it can't be realistic. Learn how to give your world more flavor. Whether your characters are in a medieval fantasy or a rollicking space opera, they will appreciate a decent meal. Panelists: Daniel Myers, Kerrie Hughes, Elizabeth Vaughan, Tim Waggoner, Steven Schend, Linda Baker
How to look at your work critically and improve your chance for a sale. This covers everything from plot to language, how to rewrite, and how to take and give criticism. Panelists: John Helfers, Elizabeth Vaughan, Steven Schend, Richard Lee Byers, Don Bingle
So you want to be a professional writer? Even if it's only in your spare time? Our panelists discuss the business of writing, offer pointers on manuscript presentation, and give advice on how you can rise to the top of the slush pile. Applies to game and fiction markets. Panelists: Jean Rabe, John Helfers, Luke Johnson, Linda Baker, Brad Beaulieu
Join us for a question and answer session about writing, editing, and publishing. Brain-picking welcomed. Panelists: Jean Rabe, Don Bingle, Elizabeth Vaughan, Linda Baker, Brad Beaulieu
Writers’ Symposium—Breaking into the Industry, Game Writing 103
Description:
If you want to start writing, editing, designing, or developing games in the hobby market, join our discussion. We discuss where to begin, what you can put on your resume . . . even if you haven't done a lick of professional work in your life, and other ways to start getting paid for your great game ideas. Also included are tips on how to get on your editor's good side. Panelists: Chris Pierson, Don Bingle, Luke Johnson, Steven Schend