This is October, and that means it's Can-Con time! Yay! See this magnificent poster below for details!
The point is, it's a great time.
My first year there, I was so timid and intimidated and I felt a fraud. I had one book to sell, and some artwork. I was unsure of my standing as a writer, terrified that because I was self=published with only one title to my name, I wouldn't be taken seriously.
All of my fears were unfounded. A more welcoming, friendly and wonderful collection of people you will never meet. Really, even if the programming wasn't fantastic, and there wasn't awesome opportunities for writers and people who want to be writers, you should come for the people alone.
But onto the programming. There really is something for everyone. For writers hoping to get picked up by publishers, there are pitch sessions on offer. Click the link to sign up. Pitch your book, and maybe get a request to send them your manuscript. And then MAYBE get yourself published.
This year, I signed up for a pitch session. I've been taking this writing gig seriously since 2011, and this is the first time I will be pitching. Ever. I AM TERRIFIED. I also have no idea what the hell I'm doing. I will be pitching my sci fi manuscript Skylark. I really don't want to screw this up. I really believe in this story, and I really want it to get picked up.
We'll see. I highly suspect I will need some quiet bathroom sobbing time after the pitching. Nerves and I do not mix well.
Don't have a completed manuscript that you feel is ready to be pitched? That's alright, there's plenty of opportunity for feed back as well. Sign up for the Blue Pencil Café. You get to have some of your pages reviewed and are given some feedback on your work. If you're stuck or unsure, this is a fantastic way to put your mind at ease or set you back on the right path.
There are also cool workshops and amazing panels with some of the best in Canada's speculative fiction scene.
If you're not a writer, but an avid reader, this is the perfect place to mingle with your favourite authors, ask them questions and soak up the atmosphere of a bunch of book lovers hanging out together.
Guys, I love this convention. Honestly, you should really register and come along. It's a fantastic time!
And now I have work to do.
Ciao!