Putting it on paper

Writers, artists, and fans gather next weekend in Redmond for Foolscap X — a literary convention devoted to "flat stuff; funny hats." The "flat stuff" is written and/or illustrated science fiction, fantasy and related-genre works.

Small and focused, Foolscap is an excellent way to check out the thriving and complex Northwest science fiction community and meet out-of-state guests of honor like author Esther Friesner and illustrator Michael Kaluta.

While more structured than an "unconference," Foolscap is very much a participants' event; come prepared to meet people and get involved in lively discussions, impromptu dining adventures, and an auction of one-of-a-kind original artworks and genre collectibles.

The conference's new location (the Marriott in the midst of the pedestrian-friendly Redmond Town Center) is likely to attract public interest. While most of the activities require conference membership ($45), there are two open-to-the-public panels:

"About Science Fiction Cons," in the hotel lobby, 5-6 p.m. Friday
"Why Science Fiction & Fantasy," in the hotel lobby, 4:30-6 p.m. Saturday

High recommended attendees-only panels include:

"Urban Fantasy" (2:30-3:30 p.m. Sunday)
"Stories that Shouldn't Be Written" (4-5 p.m. Friday)

I'm scheduled to be on a late-night panel discussion of "Vampire Romances: Jumped the shark?" If you plan to attend, please get all the "teeth" jokes out of your system first.