It took me a few conventions to figure this out, but now, even if I have to walk past rows of seats filled with people, I’ll make my way to the front of the room to find an empty chair.

Reasons to sit up front (especially at panels)

• You can see the panelists faces since no one is blocking your view
• You can read the panelists name cards/tents
• You can easily hear what the panelists are saying, even if there is trouble with the microphones

anyway you can

And a final reason to sit in the front row – the panelists can see you.

It’s unlikely they can read the name on your badge, but they will have seen your face. If you’re taking notes during the panel, they might remember that. If you asked a question, they have a face to the voice.

So when you see them again, be it during an autographing session or in the bar, they will have seen you before, and may even remember you.

It’s a touch point, a shared moment, a topic of conversation.

The rest is up to you.

Fhloston Hostess: You have a seat reserved, front row, next to RU-BY RHOD! He’s so talented, don’t you think? I just love him… he’s so sexy…
- The Fifth Element

• No masquerade and very few costumes
• No gaming
• No films or videos, unless directly related to the literature

So what does the World Fantasy Convention have?

• All those industry professionals – writers, artists, editors and agents
• Friday night group autographing session
• Sunday banquet and World Fantasy Awards ceremony

b&w artist

This year was the first time I have attended the World Fantasy Convention but it will not be the last. The atmosphere is relaxed, the programming interesting but not overwhelming, and reading sessions occur all weekend from some of the finest genre writers around today.

If you are serious about a writing career in fantasy literature, this is the convention to attend. For a more detailed rational, please read David B. Coe’s World Fantasy post at Magical Worlds.

Con:World Fantasy Convention
When: yearly, near the end of October/beginning of November
Where: different city each year
Cost: Attending Membership – $100-$125, Supporting Membership – $35 (publications and voting rights only)

Molly Grue: But you do. You have magic. Maybe you can’t find it, but it’s there. You called Robin Hood, and there is no Robin Hood. You have all the power you need if you dared to look for it.
- The Last Unicorn by Peter s. Beagle