This program will discuss both the craft and the business of writing science fiction in short and long form, including:

·         worldbuilding

·         concept vs. plot vs. character

·         getting the science right (yes, it’s important!)

·         beginnings and endings

·         selling short fiction

·         the wonderful world of querying

·         writing as a career

The session will be a mix of discussion and activities. Come prepared to do at least a bit of writing.

Edward Ashton is the author of the novels Three Days in April, The End of Ordinary, Mickey7 (now a motion picture directed by Bong Joon-ho and starring Robert Pattinson, Naomi Ackie, and Mark Ruffalo) and Antimatter Blues. His short fiction has appeared in venues ranging from the newsletter of an Italian sausage company to Analog, Escape Pod, and Fireside Magazine. In his spare time, he enjoys cancer research, teaching quantum physics to sullen graduate students, and whittling. You can find him online at edwardashton.com