I love reading and writing events. Opportunities for these are limited overall, not just from this year. They cost money and time. But it sure is a fun thing to go and say "I did xyz conference this year!"
I attended the American Night Writers Association conference this month, which was conducted virtually due to the pandemic.
Writing conferences are great for creators. But I have to say I think book festivals, reading conferences, and reader-centered events are vastly underrated.
I went with one of my book clubs to the 2018 Sirens conference. It's a book conference for YA Fantasy pushing diverse representation in the industry - authors, characters, inclusive works, alla that great stuff.
Some of the programming was writer-oriented but most of it was really great reader content. Author panels, publisher lists of new releases, discussions on promoting your favorite authors… so good. The fall weather in Colorado was a perk too.
I'm hopeful I'll get a chance to do a bit more of those kinds of events. Nonfiction isn't typically at the center of these events, but fellow booklovers usually make good company.
Starting local is a great plan. Or, like my old group, you can look for an event for your favorite genre. Some events have a goal, like promoting authors from underrepresented groups, so if you belong to one of these groups or want to lend your support to the cause, sign up and make it happen!
One thing though, save up room in your bag and your wallet! Sales from these events help make sure they happen again.
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