Calling all readers - what would tempt you?

[charlie_cochrane]

Specifically, what would tempt you to attend an authors/publishers/whatever event. Tips for wannabee authors? Chances to meet writers you like? Something totally different? Please let me know your thoughts.

Comments

[helenajust.livejournal.com]

I would be tempted most by information-heavy, almost academic, talks by authors. I've just re-read Josephine Myles's description of The Festival of Romance, and it sounded absolutely right - a series of interesting panels with a bit of mingling and fun. I remember wishing I'd been at your panel because it sounded interesting when you described it!

I'd like to meet authors I like, but I'd like to hear their views on things that matter just as much, if not more.

I'm commenting as a reader with no serious aspiration to becoming an author, but with a real interest in the craft of being an author - I love English, the use of English, the structure of a scene, of a book, etc..

Somehow, I managed not to be aware of the Festival until it was too late to arrange to attend. I don't know how it passed me by, given that I read several book review and author sites!

[charliecochrane.livejournal.com]

You'd have loved that Festival. We're hoping to steal some of the idea for the next UK Meet.

Love your ideas for panels; all of them written down for planning purposes. Thank you!

[anteros-lmc.livejournal.com]

Historical background, how and where the author did their research, where the inspiration for characters and plot lines came from. That kinda thing :)

[charliecochrane.livejournal.com]

Ooh. Now there's a list to start the day with! Thanks.

[dementordelta.livejournal.com]

Question and answer periods would be lots of fun! It would also be fun if, in addition to authors and publishers, reviewers/bloggers were invited to participate.

[charliecochrane.livejournal.com]

Thank you - all points really good and duly noted.

[jessie-lansdel.livejournal.com]

The chance to meet established authors and publishers. Lots of research ideas. Plus talks by authors and Q & A afterwards.
And tips and advice for beginner writers. And maybe a reading or two from new writers so we can receive some feedback.

Grace

[charliecochrane.livejournal.com]

Thanks for those ideas, Grace. I particularly like the last one - would you see that happening in a group or one to one?

Readings etc

[(Anonymous)]

Hi Charlie,
Glad you liked suggestions. To answer your question, I think it all depends on the individual and what they feel easiest with. Some do feel easier on a one to one basis and others positively love an audience. I had to quell my stage fright giving presentations at uni so I got used to it. Lol.
But maybe there could be a choice and the brave amongst us could do groups and those who wish could do one to one.

Hope that's ok

Grace

[charliecochrane.livejournal.com]

Having trouble unscreening your other comment so replying here. Will pass on the idea ref readings to the planning team for the next UK meet - we're getting together tomorrow so it'll be fresh in my brain!

UK meet.

[jessie-lansdel.livejournal.com]

Ooh good stuff. Let's know how you get on.
Thank you. G

[stevie-carroll.livejournal.com]

As a reader I have been known to go miles out of my way to catch a talk by an author I particularly like. I definitely want to hear the background to stories and what inspired them.

[charliecochrane.livejournal.com]

Oh yes. Trouble is, so many of the people I'd like to talk to are no longer with us. "Tell, me Mary, is Laurie O'Dell based on a real person?"