It’s almost time for my first convention of 2021, and as with all cons since this COVID-19 lockdown began, it’s going to be a virtual one. Which means I won’t have to hop aboard an Amtrak train to get to Boskone this year, and neither will you.

Here’s when and with whom you’ll be able to hear me pontificate virtually the weekend of February 12-13 —

Creating Across Media Format
Friday, February 12, 5:00-6:00. p.m.
Versatility is an author’s greatest tool in today’s publishing market. Whether it’s books, blogging, comics, drama, film, gaming, graphic novels, non-fiction, short fiction, social media, or TV there is a story to be told. When switching from one to the other, what do you need to keep in mind? What are some of the key tips and tricks to creating compelling content no matter which medium you are writing in at the moment?
with Christopher Golden, Walter Jon Williams, Gillian Daniels, Mur Lafferty

Admiring the Scene-ry Format
Friday, February 12, 6:30-7:30. p.m.
Our authors talk about how to craft a compelling scene — the nuance, description, and dialogue that make a reader fall into the story. What does it take to create that kind of literary spell? What are some great examples in our genres? How does dramatic action play into the overall effect of the scene?
with Carrie Vaughn, Michael Swanwick, and John Chu

Editing for the Damned (aka The Horror of Short Fiction)
Saturday, February 13, 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Genres within speculative fiction come with their own sets of do’s and don’ts, especially when editing short fiction. What does it take to edit a horror short story? What sets the process apart from editing fantasy or science fiction? How can good editing highlight the horror, or a bad edit job kill a good horror story?
with Gillian Redfearn, Christopher Golden, and Ellen Datlow

Self-Defining Success as a Creator Format
Saturday, February 13, 8:30-9:30 p.m.
When people start writing, performing, painting, etc., they usually have some concept of “success.” That ideal is likely informed by social expectations and reflected off people in the field and in fandom. Not everyone can fit that image of success, nor would that be appropriate. So, how do we go about defining success on our own terms? What measures can we use? Our panelists share their advice and thoughts for creatives at every stage of their careers.
with David B. Coe/D.B. Jackson, Karen Heuler, Zig Zag Claybourne

I hope you’ll drop by so we’re not left talking only to ourselves.

You can find the full convention schedule here.