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Welcome to When Words Collide 2024!

This site is designed to streamline your event experience, ensuring you never miss a moment. Here, you’ll find a detailed timeline of all event activities, including sessions, workshops, and more. You can view the entire schedule, filter by various options (rooms, days, presenters), and explore presenter bios.

The schedule is subject to updates, so remember to check back often!
Friday, August 16
 

10:00am MDT

How to Play D&D
Friday August 16, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am MDT
Learn to play Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) in one short hour with some of our amazing Dungeon Masters! They will make this world-famous collaborative storytelling game make sense and get you up to speed so you can play a game this weekend to check it out.
Speakers
Friday August 16, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am MDT
Games Room (Rundle)

10:00am MDT

Open Boardgames
Friday August 16, 2024 10:00am - 9:00pm MDT
Come on in and play board games with your new friends, or make some new friends playing board games.
Friday August 16, 2024 10:00am - 9:00pm MDT
Games Room (Rundle)

11:00am MDT

Quick and Dirty D&D
Friday August 16, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Don’t have a lot of time? New to Dungeons and Dragons and just want to try it out? Come and play using a simplified pre-made character sheet and a Dungeon Master who will walk you through it. A great game for both new and seasoned players.

There will be two tables each with 5 spaces. 
Speakers
avatar for Rhonda Parrish

Rhonda Parrish

Rhonda is the editor of many anthologies including, most recently, Earth: Giants, Golems and Gargoyles, Grimm, Grit and Gasoline: An anthology of Dieselpunk and Decopunk Fairy Tales and F is for Fairy. In addition, Rhonda is a writer whose work has been in publications such as Tesseracts... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Games Room (Rundle)

12:00pm MDT

Jackbox Games
Friday August 16, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm MDT
Do you have a phone, iPad, or other internet connective device? Great! Then you can play some fantastic, word based, collaborative games with a bunch of random friends you’ve only just met.
Friday August 16, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm MDT
Games Room (Rundle)

12:30pm MDT

Opening Event
Friday August 16, 2024 12:30pm - 1:00pm MDT
Join us for the 2024 When Words Collide Festival opening event! We'll kick off with a Land Acknowledgement, special announcements, and housekeeping items to ensure a smooth festival experience. Enjoy author readings from our Guests of Honour, Tash McAdam and Jessica Johns. Start the festival with inspiration and literary delight!
Speakers
PD

Precious de Leon

Precious is a poet and speculative fiction writer. She writes through the lens of a Filipino Canadian settler in Mohkintsis/Calgary. Following her stint as a business journalist and editor in the Middle East, her creative writing journey started with the 2019 Borderlines Writers Circle... Read More →
avatar for Robin van Eck

Robin van Eck

Robin writes fiction - literary, contemporary, horror, weird and offbeat - and creative nonfiction. Most recently her work has appeared in WonderShift - 40th Anniversary Anthology of the Alexandra Writers Centre, Forbidden Fruit from The Seventh Terrace and Very Much Alive, stories... Read More →
avatar for Nicole Roche

Nicole Roche

Nicole is a published author of short stories, articles, and technical papers. She self-published a children’s book titled When I Grow Up. Her passion is in creative writing, and she is working on a novel within the romance genre. She has been an active member of the AWCS community... Read More →
avatar for Jessica Johns

Jessica Johns

Jessica Johns is a nehiyaw aunty with English-Irish ancestry and a member of Sucker Creek First Nation. Her debut novel, Bad Cree, was shortlisted for the Amazon first novel award and won the MacEwan Book of the Year prize.
avatar for Sarah Johnson

Sarah Johnson

Sarah Johnson writes science fiction and fantasy, is a local business owner (Titan Health & Safety), teaches World Building, facilitates the Weekly Write In, is a Co-Chair for the When Words Collide committee and is the current President for The Alexandra Writers Centre Society. Sarah... Read More →
avatar for Tash McAdam

Tash McAdam

Tash McAdam is a Welsh-Canadian author, activist and educator. Their publications include The Psionics (Nine Star Press), and the Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selections Blood Sport and Sink or Swim (Orca Books). They are also featured in multiple anthologies. Tash is a recipient... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 12:30pm - 1:00pm MDT
Bonavista Ballroom

1:00pm MDT

"Your story sucks! (That is not what I said.)" Working With a Critique Partner
Friday August 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
How can you work together effectively without destroying your friendship? Jonathan Lyster and Krista Wallace have been critiquing each other's writing for more years than either one has fingers. See them role-play their list of Do's and Don'ts for how to be helpful while having fun doing it.
Speakers
avatar for Jonathan Sean Lyster

Jonathan Sean Lyster

independent author, Heuronic Books
Jonathan Sean Lyster likes to wrap his head around strange nows and possible futures. His novels include the science fiction thriller "Oblivion's Wake" and the Armageddon Boys urban fantasy comedy series. His short stories have appeared in "On Spec," "Analog," and "Storyteller". A... Read More →
avatar for Krista Wallace

Krista Wallace

Krista is a fantasy writer, jazz & rock musician, audiobook narrator, actor, podcaster, mother, Gran, lover of pie, dark chocolate, and fine single malt scotch. She hails from Port Coquitlam, BC, where she writes and records in a closet, emerging occasionally to sing with the big... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Fireside

1:00pm MDT

Chekov's Gun, Deus Ex Machina, and other writing principles
Friday August 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Learn what NOT to include in your writing ... or what you should include! Interactive writing exemplars and videos show the principles of Deus Ex Machina and Chekov's gun. Basically, how to use foreshadowing effectively and not have extraneous details.
Speakers
JG

Jenna Greene

Jenna Greene is a YA and children's author. She is known for the CBC Canada recommended middle-grade book "An Owl Without A Name" and her award-winning YA series "The Reborn Marks" series. She also has a list of picture books, YA novels, short stories, and poetry. An English teacher... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Waterton

1:00pm MDT

Magic Rules (and How to Break Them)
Friday August 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
A wizard did it. Or did they? The in-world rules surrounding magic systems and how to codify them can be complex, but there are tricks to make it simpler. And once you've figured out what the rules actually are, you can figure out the best way to break them for maximum literary benefit.
Speakers
avatar for Amanda Witow

Amanda Witow

Amanda Witow is the author of the historical fantasy series, Legend's Legacy. An upper elementary teacher with a BA in psychology and classical studies, she is, indisputably, a nerd. She regularly participates in NaNoWriMo (and has even won several times), shares excerpts and short... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Canmore

1:00pm MDT

The Glue Factor
Friday August 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Evolving writers often take courses to improve their writing, yet experience difficulty integrating their learnings into an engaging presentation. The session deals with building the mental filters through which the writer achieves reader engagement. The Glue Factor covers the importance of genre and theme, evolution of plot sequences to unfold the storyline, writing through the eyes and senses of the POV character, settings in support of action and drama, maintaining POV, sentence structure, meaningful dialogue, and several other criteria – all coming together as a cohesive whole.
Speakers
avatar for Karl Buchner

Karl Buchner

Mr. Buchner is a published author and is the facilitator of two critiquing groups and a twice annual writing retreat.  His career includes teaching and a wide range of technical and management positions throughout North America and Eastern Europe.
Friday August 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Acadia

1:00pm MDT

Active Settings
Friday August 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Learn how to make your settings come alive and how to make your settings work harder for you.
Speakers
avatar for monica zwikstra

monica zwikstra

Monica Sagle Zwikstra is the author of two epic fantasy novels, Dragons Flight, and Alban's Choice.. Monica's writing skills extend to short stories as well, with her story Storm House being published in the anthology A Haunting of Words and her flash fiction Humanity appearing in... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Kananaskis 1

1:00pm MDT

Live Action Slush - Early Bird Edition (Short Fiction)
Friday August 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Bring the first page of your Short Fiction manuscript to be anonymously read aloud and receive feedback from our panel of editors. (Please indicate the genre at the top of the page.)
Moderators
avatar for Andrew Snook

Andrew Snook

Andrew Snook is a professional writer and editor. His non-fiction and fiction writing have earned him a combined 21 national and international writing awards. Snook is also the founder of Canadian Independent Publishers, which is dedicated to showcasing indie writers, bookstores and... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Jim Jackson

Jim Jackson

Author, speaker and gentleman Jim Jackson is a Calgary Herald bestselling author, vintage leather jacket enthusiast and dabbler in the dark arts of blues music. Jim’s mission is to show how the stories we all grew up with – the heroes, the monsters, the adventures – are still... Read More →
avatar for Michèle Laframboise

Michèle Laframboise

Michèle Laframboise feeds coffee grounds to her garden plants, runs long distances and creates compelling fiction from her secret basement in Mississauga, Ontario. Fascinated by sciences and nature since she could walk, she studied in geography and engineering, but two recessions... Read More →
avatar for Adria Laycraft

Adria Laycraft

Freelance editor, published author, and wood artisan, Adria Laycraft earned honours in Journalism Arts in '92 and has worked with words and visual art ever since. She co-edited the Urban Green Man anthology in 2013, which was nominated for an Aurora Award, and has two novels, Jumpship... Read More →
SS

Shirlee Smith Matheson

Research, writing, and reading tours take Shirlee Smith Matheson to schools, libraries and museums throughout Canada, and into the homes, offices and aviation hangars of characters featured in her 21 published books, numerous published articles and short stories. Nonfiction books... Read More →
avatar for Rhonda Parrish

Rhonda Parrish

Rhonda is the editor of many anthologies including, most recently, Earth: Giants, Golems and Gargoyles, Grimm, Grit and Gasoline: An anthology of Dieselpunk and Decopunk Fairy Tales and F is for Fairy. In addition, Rhonda is a writer whose work has been in publications such as Tesseracts... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Fairview

1:00pm MDT

Worldbuilding in Speculative Fiction
Friday August 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
It's time to get that fantastic world that's been stuck inside your head for years, complete with dragons and androids, onto paper! Whether you're starting your first or tenth novel, let's dive into techniques for creating inspiring, believable worlds.
Moderators
avatar for Nicola MacCameron

Nicola MacCameron

Published Leoshine, Princess Oracle Book 1 of the Leoshine series in 2020. Working on Book 2Audiobook narrator and producer. Author on Medium.com and Sci Fi Shorts.com
Speakers
avatar for Shelly Campbell

Shelly Campbell

Shelly Campbell's debut grimdark fantasy duology THE MARKED SON series was published with Mythos and Ink Publishing in 2020-2022. She has co-authored a post apocalyptic sci-fi, KNOWLEDGE ITSELF and it's sequel MADNESS OF PEOPLE, with Cursed Dragon Ship Publishing in 2022, as well... Read More →
avatar for Brenda Carre

Brenda Carre

Brenda Carre is a multi-published author of short fiction. Her work can be found in the Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Pulp Literature Magazine, Fiction River Anthologies, Pulphouse Fiction Magazine, Wordfire Press and many other publications. She is currently at work on... Read More →
avatar for Arlene F. Marks

Arlene F. Marks

Arlene F. Marks has been writing since the age of 6, and she has no plans to stop. A veteran teacher of the craft, she has authored two literacy programs for the classroom. Her short stories have appeared online and in print, notably in an anthology of reimagined fairy tales, Grimmer... Read More →
avatar for Nathan Ogloff

Nathan Ogloff

I have always had a fascination with creating stories that are rich, intricate, and create a lasting impression on the reader. Previous writing credentials include two unpublished short stories. Other than those, this will be my debut novel. When I'm not writing, I am usually adding... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Kananaskis 2

1:00pm MDT

Homebrewing monsters, classes, magic, and more!
Friday August 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Build your Dungeons and Dragons world your way. Learn the best ways to invent all kinds of items, races, landscapes, monsters, and unique traps tp will make your campaigns memorable.
Speakers
Friday August 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Games Room (Rundle)

1:00pm MDT

Blue Pencil Session with Alex McGilvery (Preregistration required)
Friday August 16, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MDT
Bring the 1st page of your manuscript (max 1000 words, typed, double-spaced) for one-on-one feedback. There are 4 spots available, sign-up is required.

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN:
When Words Collide 2024: Blue Pencil Session with Alex McGilvery (signupgenius.com)

Or navigate from the AWCS website: WWC - Blue Pencil Sessions (alexandrawriters.org)
Speakers
avatar for Alex McGilvery

Alex McGilvery

Alex has been a freelance content editor for years, helping client s produce best selling books and others to sign contract with publishers. I'm the author of 35 or so published books in every genre but romance. I'm a freelance content editor with more than a hundred book edited over... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MDT
Cascade

1:00pm MDT

Ask a DM
Friday August 16, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MDT
Ask a Dungeon Master

Get your various Dungeons and Dragons related questions answered by our top Dungeon Masters. No question too big, too “dumb”, or too small. We will help you get the answers you seek.

Note: This session will be held in the anteroom within the Games Room (Rundle)
Speakers
Friday August 16, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MDT
Games Room (Rundle)

1:00pm MDT

Sit & Write
Friday August 16, 2024 1:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
Join our Sit & Write sessions in our dedicated writing room, where you'll find a quiet, inspiring environment to focus on your craft, surrounded by fellow writers. Whether you're polishing a piece or starting something new, this is your space to create and connect.

As space allows. 
Friday August 16, 2024 1:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
Heritage

2:00pm MDT

Rocking Book Launches
Friday August 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Do you want to treat your readers like the rockstars they are?
Do you want to transform your hum drum book launches into epic experiences?

Learn how to think outside of the box and bring your story alive when you welcome it into the world. Walk away invigorated with ideas and equipped with a tool box for planning your next book launch. This presentation will focus on in person book launches, with some mention of online launches. Bring your pen and notebook and be prepared to stretch your mind.
Speakers
avatar for Julie Hiner

Julie Hiner

Killers and Demons
Julie Hiner spent her childhood lost in the pages of books. The only thing that took precedence was her Walkman. Julie remains a hardcore 80s rocker at heart. Julie worked as a computer scientist, specializing in network simulation. On a break, she published an inspirational book... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Acadia

2:00pm MDT

Short Fiction, Long Shadows
Friday August 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Common publishing wisdom is that there's no money in short fiction, but is the nugget true? Is art defined by the size of the frame? Examine some examples of short fiction that grew after publication, morphing into a variety of projects. Why short fiction persists, examples of ideas spilling the boundaries, why you should consider wrestling that story to the story page regardless of what common publishing wisdom suggests.
Speakers
avatar for Shannon Allen

Shannon Allen

Shannon Allen is one of those rare breeds, a third generation Calgarian. Her journalism pieces appeared in Calgary Community Publications before turning to fiction. Her first work, Confession, was published in Enigma Front: Now Everything Changes. Her work has also appeared in Enigma... Read More →
avatar for Jeff Campbell

Jeff Campbell

J.R. Campbell is a Calgary based writer and anthologist. With co-editor Charles Prepolec, his anthologies include ‘Professor Challenger: New Worlds, Lost Places' and five volumes of the Sherlock Holmes 'Gaslight' anthologies, thrusting the master rationalist into fantastic... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Fireside

2:00pm MDT

Beam Me Down, Scotty
Friday August 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
The effects of a long time in space on the human (and alien) bodies.
Speakers
DW

David Worsick

David Worsick is a retired technical writer and active fiction writer who has some short stories and one children's book (Henry's Gift) published. He has a B.Sc. Geology and an MBA (be afraid, very afraid).
Friday August 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Kananaskis 1

2:00pm MDT

Getting Clear about Memoir
Friday August 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Memoir is a very popular genre of writing yet many people are unclear what a memoir actually is.
Speakers
avatar for Karen Elizabeth Lee

Karen Elizabeth Lee

Karen Lee is a published author of three books, two of which are memoirs, The Full Catastrophe (2016) a runner-up for the Exporting Alberta contest, and The Village that Betrayed its Children (2024). She has published many articles, is a group facilitator, public speaker, retired... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Kananaskis 2

2:00pm MDT

Live Action Slush - Fantasy/Urban Fantasy
Friday August 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Bring the first page of your Fantasy/Urban Fantasy manuscript to be anonymously read aloud and receive feedback from our panel of editors. (Please indicate the genre at the top of the page.)
Speakers
avatar for Krista Wallace

Krista Wallace

Krista is a fantasy writer, jazz & rock musician, audiobook narrator, actor, podcaster, mother, Gran, lover of pie, dark chocolate, and fine single malt scotch. She hails from Port Coquitlam, BC, where she writes and records in a closet, emerging occasionally to sing with the big... Read More →
avatar for Angela Ackerman

Angela Ackerman

Angela Ackerman is a story coach, international speaker, and co-author of the bestselling book, The Emotion Thesaurus: A Writer's Guide to Character Expression, and its many sequels. Available in nine languages, her guides are sourced by universities, recommended by agents and editors... Read More →
avatar for Bonnie Jacoby

Bonnie Jacoby

Bonnie Jacoby writes adventurous fantasy and futuristic science fiction for teens. As a resident of the beautiful Pacific Northwest, Bonnie's love for nature is reflected in her stories, transporting readers to worlds that are both familiar and fantastical. With her debut book, Dreams... Read More →
avatar for Ella Beaumont

Ella Beaumont

Assistant to the Publisher, EDGE Science Fiction and Fantasy Publishing
Ella Beaumont has been professionally involved in the publishing industry in both traditional and freelancing capacities since 2012. She has experience in editing, book packaging, and sales and marketing roles. She previously served as the acquisition editor for EDGE Science Fiction... Read More →
avatar for Ashley Keller

Ashley Keller

I graduated from Ryerson University (Toronto Metropolitan University) in April 2022. I hold a graduate certificate in publishing from its Chang School of Continuing Education. Books have always been my passion, and now I dedicate my time to helping authors bring their books to publication... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Fairview

2:00pm MDT

Write Your Own Comic Script
Friday August 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
If you've ever wanted to write your own comic script, it's time to dive in. Learn some basics, ask some questions, and get your story on the page.
Speakers
avatar for L. A. Cunningham

L. A. Cunningham

L. A. Cunningham is an author and comic book creator with a dark and twisty sense of humour that pairs nicely with her dark and twisty writing. She and her spouse have two small human children and one larger canine child, all of whom enjoy eating food off the floor and watching squirrels... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Canmore

2:00pm MDT

Blue Pencil Session with Anthony Bidulka (Preregistration required)
Friday August 16, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
Bring the 1st page of your manuscript (max 1000 words, typed, double-spaced) for one-on-one feedback. There are 4 spots available, sign-up is required.

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN:
When Words Collide 2024: Blue Pencil Session with Anthony Bidulka (signupgenius.com)

Or navigate from the AWCS website: WWC - Blue Pencil Sessions (alexandrawriters.org)
Speakers
avatar for Anthony Bidulka

Anthony Bidulka

Anthony Bidulka has dedicated his career to writing traditional genre novels in an untraditional way, developing a body of work that often features his Saskatchewan roots and underrepresented, diverse main characters. He tells serious stories in accessible, entertaining, often humorous... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
Cascade

2:00pm MDT

From Crime to Courtroom
Friday August 16, 2024 2:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Join Dave Sweet, former Homicide Detective as he takes participants through the steps and processes that investigators follow from the beginning to the end of an investigation. The talk will focus on the scene, the forensics within the scene, the processes and procedures that help identify the suspect, and the subsequent interview and court proceeding once they have been arrested and charged.
Speakers
avatar for Dave Sweet

Dave Sweet

With 25 years of policing experience, Detective Dave Sweet (retired) has investigated some of Canada’s most heinous crimes.Over his career, Dave worked as a patrol officer, an undercover police officer and led several task forces targeting gangs and organized crime groups operating... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 2:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Bonavista Ballroom

2:00pm MDT

Navigating the Publishing Journey: From Manuscript to Bookshelves with Jonathan Whitelaw
Friday August 16, 2024 2:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Congratulations on completing your manuscript! But what comes next? Join us for a comprehensive exploration of the publishing industry in 2024. Award-winning author Jonathan Whitelaw will guide you through the crucial steps after finishing your manuscript, including editing, traditional and self-publishing options, and the advantages and disadvantages of representation. Discover how 'The End' is just the beginning of your journey as a published author. Whether you're aiming for traditional publishing or considering self-publishing, this masterclass will provide invaluable insights and practical advice to help you navigate the path to seeing your book in print.
Speakers
avatar for Jonathan Whitelaw

Jonathan Whitelaw

Jonathan Whitelaw is an award-winning author, journalist and broadcaster. After working on the frontline of Scottish politics, he moved into journalism, covering everything from sports to music to radioactive waste – and everything in between. He's also a regular reviewer, panelist... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 2:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Waterton

2:00pm MDT

Play Dungeons and Dragons
Friday August 16, 2024 2:00pm - 4:00pm MDT
Play a one-off campaign in two hours. Not only is this a great way to meet other writers and storytellers who share your interests, but it’s fun to work with a group to tell a tale. Both new and seasoned players welcome. We will have pre-made character sheets and extra dice waiting for you.

This game will be 2-hours in length.
There will be two tables with 5 spaces at each table.
Speakers
Friday August 16, 2024 2:00pm - 4:00pm MDT
Games Room (Rundle)

3:00pm MDT

WRITING HUMOUR AND OTHER TERRIFYING THINGS
Friday August 16, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
"One person's giggle is another person's groan" - A literary agent shared this insight with me nearly two decades ago when I submitted my first novel (a work of satirical fiction). Although he loved the book, he confessed his apprehension about representing humour. This interactive presentation explores humour in its various forms, addresses the boundaries of political correctness, provides guidance on fearlessly writing humour, and emphasizes the importance of laughter in our daily lives.
Speakers
avatar for Andrew Buckley

Andrew Buckley

Author/Presenter
Andrew Buckley is a film school-educated writer, which means he's spent most of his life with no money and a high opinion about bad movies. Today, he's a traditionally and self-published novelist of rather silly, yet enjoyable fiction for all ages, a comic book writer, screenwriter... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Acadia

3:00pm MDT

The Resilient Writer
Friday August 16, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
"There is no innovation and creativity without failure,” according to Brené Brown. But how does one navigate the painful seasons of failure, struggle, and rejection that are an inevitable part of the writer’s life? More importantly, how does one develop the resilience to keep going? This workshop will give you the inspiration and practical tools you need to weather the storms, make peace with rejection, and use it all as fuel to achieve your goals.
Speakers
avatar for Jodi McIsaac

Jodi McIsaac

​Jodi McIsaac is the author of six novels and several short stories and essays. She's also the owner of Inkwood Communications, a boutique copywriting agency serving the non-profit sector. Born and raised on the East Coast, Jodi made her way to Calgary via Belfast, Winnipeg, Toronto... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Canmore

3:00pm MDT

Dispelling the Myths of Book Seller and Author Relationships
Friday August 16, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
This panel of experienced book sellers will candidly share insights and perspectives on the dynamic relationship between authors and book sellers. You will gain valuable insights into the inner workings of book selling, learn how to navigate this crucial relationship, and discover strategies to maximize book sales and foster successful partnerships. Whether you're an author seeking to understand the book selling world better or a book seller looking to improve collaborations with authors, this event is not to be missed.

Sarah Pratt, Owls Nest Books
Julia Lutchman, Found
Brandi Morpurgo, Daisy Chain Book Co.
Shannon MacNaughton, Slow Burn Books
Moderators
avatar for Irena Karshenbaum

Irena Karshenbaum

Writer
Irena Karshenbaum is best known for leading a project that rescued one of the last surviving historic prairie synagogues and giving it as a gift to Heritage Park. She writes stories on history, heritage, culture, books and travel for various publications, gives public talks on history... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Shannon MacNaughton

Shannon MacNaughton

Shannon MacNaughton is the co-owner of Slow Burn Books, the first brick-and-mortar romance bookstore in Canada, started with her sister Nicola in early 2023, and a long-time lover of romantasy. Slow Burn Books exemplifies the sisters’ joint commitment to creating a community-focused... Read More →
avatar for Brandi Morpurgo

Brandi Morpurgo

Owner, Daisy Chain Book Co.
Brandi Morpurgo is an innovative bookstore owner and literary entrepreneur who began her journey with Alberta's first booktruck, bringing carefully curated selections to markets, festivals, and community events. This mobile initiative laid the groundwork for Brandi to open two thriving... Read More →
avatar for Sarah L. Pratt

Sarah L. Pratt

Sarah L. Pratt is an editor, publisher, teacher, bookseller, and queer fictioneer living on Treaty 7 land in the foothills of Alberta. She is an AMPA finalist and the author of Suicide Stitch: Eleven Tales (EMP Publishing), and the dystopian thriller Infractus (Coffin Hop Press... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Kananaskis 1

3:00pm MDT

Working With a Book Designer
Friday August 16, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Avery Olive, the proprietor of Bibliofic Designs, and two of her bestseller clients, nonfiction writer James Fell and novelist Robert J. Sawyer, discuss working with a designer on the covers and interiors of books, the things that drive a designer nuts, and how clients can get the most for their money.
Moderators
avatar for Kevin Weir

Kevin Weir

I began my work in film before becoming an author of page, stage, and screen. A fan of fantastical worlds, I found a way to channel my chaotic energies into wild yarns, taking readers on unforgettable journeys. My debut novel, Endless Hunger, was praised as a "riveting, genre-blending... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for James Fell

James Fell

James Fell got into writing for the money, which is one of the stupidest things you’ll ever read. It’s also a half-truth. He loves writing so much that he wanted to quit his soul-destroying job and write full-time. That meant he had to earn. With an MBA and a dozen years of sales... Read More →
avatar for Avery Olive

Avery Olive

Avery Olive, the proprietor of Bibliofic Designs, and two of her bestseller clients, nonfiction writer James Fell and novelist Robert J. Sawyer, discuss working with a designer on the covers and interiors of books, the things that drive a designer nuts, and how clients can get the... Read More →
avatar for Robert J. Sawyer

Robert J. Sawyer

Robert J. Sawyer — called “the dean of Canadian science fiction” by both the CBC and The Ottawa Citizen — is the only Canadian to have won all three of the world’s top awards for best science-fiction novel of the year: the Hugo, the Nebula, and the John W. Campbell Memorial... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Kananaskis 2

3:00pm MDT

Writing on the Edges of Scientific Discovery
Friday August 16, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
The session will focus on recent scientific discoveries regarding spacetime and the amplituhedron, an object that exists outside of spacetime. This supports the Jungian idea that we walk in two worlds simultaneously. We hope this session will encourage writers to create new worlds beyond spacetime that inspire scientists the way that Star Trek did.
Speakers
RB

Renée Bennett

Renée Bennett is an author, an editor, and a word nerd. Her degree is in Linguistics and she’s had six Aurora nominations, but no wins (yet.) She writes anything she darn well pleases: light stuff and dark stuff and mash-up stuff and stuff people say cannot or should not be written... Read More →
avatar for Mark Campbell

Mark Campbell

Born in Kingston Jamaica, Mark Campbell immigrated to Canada with his family when he was 10 years old. He spent over twenty years in the Canadian military which included 9 years as a technical training instructor where he also authored numerous training documents. Since then he has... Read More →
avatar for Charles James

Charles James

Author of the action-packed Cassi Requin science fiction novels, Charles James lives in Lethbridge with his amazing wife, two awesome kids, and a couple of Guinea pigs. By day, Charles is a radiation oncology physicist and professor.
avatar for Celeste A. Peters

Celeste A. Peters

Depending on the local likelihood of snowfall, Celeste A. Peters can be found scribbling speculative fiction in either Calgary, Alberta, or Tucson, Arizona. Her fiction, to date, has appeared in Neo-opsis Science Fiction Magazine, the Urban Greenman Anthology (Edge Science Fiction... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Fairview

3:00pm MDT

Words Worth Fighting For
Friday August 16, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
The writing journey is a hard road. It's rife with uncertainty and often, the only thing we can count on are challenges. Some are expected, some are total curve balls, and some knock you off your horse so hard, nothing's more terrifying than the idea of writing again. But these are the moments that matter most. They give us the chance to discover our own courage, learn accountability, and appreciate just how powerful each of our voices truly are. Join sober author P. J. Vernon for an honest conversation about rediscovering voice through trauma, and why our words are always worth fighting for.
Speakers
avatar for P.J. Vernon

P.J. Vernon

Lambda Literary and Queerities awards nominee, P. J. Vernon writes, lives and loves on Moh'kinstsis (Mo-ghin-s-tis), which describes the gathering place where the Bow and Elbow rivers meet and the ancestral homelands of the Siksika (Six-ih-gah) Nation, Piikani Nation (Be-gun-ee... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Fireside

3:00pm MDT

Blue Pencil Session with Ali Bryan (Preregistration Required)
Friday August 16, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT
Bring the 1st page of your manuscript (max 1000 words, typed, double-spaced) for one-on-one feedback. There are 4 spots available, sign-up is required.

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN:
When Words Collide 2024: Blue Pencil Session with Ali Bryan (signupgenius.com)

Or navigate from the AWCS website: WWC - Blue Pencil Sessions (alexandrawriters.org)
Speakers
avatar for Ali Bryan

Ali Bryan

Ali Bryan is an award-winning novelist and creative nonfiction writer who explores the what-ifs, the wtfs and the wait-a-minutes of every day. She crafts stories about the downtrodden and disenfranchised, the brokenhearted, and the vulnerable. About lovers and losers, mothers and... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT
Cascade

3:00pm MDT

Free Fall Writing Session
Friday August 16, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT
Want to learn about the free fall method of writing? Experiencing writer’s block? Need to generate a new story idea? Want to hang out with other writers? Come to the Free Fall Writing sessions during the festival. This session will be a guided session with Finnian Burnett.
Speakers
avatar for Finnian Burnett

Finnian Burnett

Finnian Burnett holds a doctoral degree in English pedagogy and teaches undergrad creative writing and English. Their writing explores intersections of identity — fatness, mental health, disability, queer joy. Finnian was a finalist for the 2023 CBC Nonfiction Prize. Their... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT
Heritage

4:00pm MDT

Author Reading in the Atrium: Arlene F. Marks & Daniel Maluka
Friday August 16, 2024 4:00pm - 4:30pm MDT
Join Arlene F. Marks and Daniel Maluka as they provide a reading from their work.
Speakers
avatar for Arlene F. Marks

Arlene F. Marks

Arlene F. Marks has been writing since the age of 6, and she has no plans to stop. A veteran teacher of the craft, she has authored two literacy programs for the classroom. Her short stories have appeared online and in print, notably in an anthology of reimagined fairy tales, Grimmer... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 4:00pm - 4:30pm MDT
Atrium

4:00pm MDT

An Afternoon with Anthony Bidulka Celebrating "From Sweetgrass Bridge"
Friday August 16, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Join Anthony Bidulka for a delightful afternoon as he discusses his latest novel, "From Sweetgrass Bridge", featuring the Canadian prairie's first and only kick-butt transgender P.I., Merry Bell.
Speakers
avatar for Anthony Bidulka

Anthony Bidulka

Anthony Bidulka has dedicated his career to writing traditional genre novels in an untraditional way, developing a body of work that often features his Saskatchewan roots and underrepresented, diverse main characters. He tells serious stories in accessible, entertaining, often humorous... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Fireside

4:00pm MDT

Worldbuilding in Scene
Friday August 16, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Readers should feel, see, hear, and become fully immersed in your world, easily understanding the politics and rules of magic or science. Learn the key methods and elements of world building for writers across all genres, including where to start and the tools and software to keep everything organized. Explore how to incorporate world building into active scene writing, revealing your world through character, setting, dialogue, and voice.
Speakers
avatar for Sarah Johnson

Sarah Johnson

Sarah Johnson writes science fiction and fantasy, is a local business owner (Titan Health & Safety), teaches World Building, facilitates the Weekly Write In, is a Co-Chair for the When Words Collide committee and is the current President for The Alexandra Writers Centre Society. Sarah... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Kananaskis 1

4:00pm MDT

Everything You Wanted to Know about Romance in Books (but were afraid to ask!)
Friday August 16, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
A discussion of everything romance.
Moderators
avatar for Samantha Adkins

Samantha Adkins

I am a writer, teacher and mother living on Bowen Island, B.C. and have published three Jane Austen-inspired novels Expectations, Suspiciously Reserved, and Banff Springs Abbey, published with City Lights Press. My adult romance novels Emmy in Harding and After His Heart, and my young... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Lori Feldberg

Lori Feldberg

Lori Feldberg writes romance under her pen name of Raine Hughes. She's a resident of central Alberta, Canada, likes to write fun romance (none of the dark stuff for her) in several sub-genres, including fantasy/paranormal, time travel, and contemporary. Somehow, humor always finds... Read More →
avatar for Katie O’Connor

Katie O’Connor

Katie O'Connor is a sweet contemporary romance author who resides in Calgary, Alberta. She has over 30 published titles including an author career planning workbook. She has been traditionally and independently published. She is a writing mentor as well as a romance acquisitions editor... Read More →
avatar for Shelley Kassian

Shelley Kassian

Bestselling author Shelley Kassian has been writing timeless love stories filled with romance or dark fantasy (romantasy) for more than twenty years, novels that include her recent true love story, A Mountain Leads Home, which is loosely based on her daughter and son-in-law. A history... Read More →
avatar for Ellen Jorgensen

Ellen Jorgensen

Ellen began telling herself stories in her head as a bored teenager. It wasn't until she was a bored mother of two that she began actually writing her stories down in a permanent way. All of her tales involve love and romance, with a good dollop of adventure and a touch of the Divine...because... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Kananaskis 2

4:00pm MDT

Adding Horror and Other Genres to your RPG game
Friday August 16, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
It’s great living in a fantasy realm, but what if you want to play in a horror, a sci-fi, apocalyptic Chicago, or a noir murder mystery? While there are other role playing systems, it’s sometimes fun to take Dungeons and Dragons and twist it to the genre you wish to explore.
Speakers
Friday August 16, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Games Room (Rundle)

4:00pm MDT

Live! Speech Tag Jam Session
Friday August 16, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Speech tags. Fiction writers of all genres have to deal with them. What are they, how are they used, and are we really confined to only three or four said, replied, asked, answered? Does asked even qualify if it's used after a question mark? Are there any exceptions? We'll cover the basics of speech tags, action tags, and said bookisms, but the real fun is the Jam Session. Come prepared to barnstorm and brainstorm creative ways to 'show, don't tell' without de-faulting to awkward speech tags and unnecessary adjectives. It's Night at the Improv meets Fiction Writers' Guide to Dialogue.
Speakers
avatar for Deven Kane

Deven Kane

Deven Kane plays a mean bass and loves to tell stories. He writes dystopian science fiction and urban fantasy, which he describes as supernatural thrillers set on another world. He's been honing his writing chops since junior high school, and had barely entered eighth grade when he... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Acadia

4:00pm MDT

Playing with Poetry
Friday August 16, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Join facilitator Cristy Watson, for a fun and interactive session of creating poetry! This workshop is for everyone, including folks who are new to poetry or experienced poets, as well as writers of fiction and creative non-fiction. During this session, attendees will have an opportunity to 'play with poetry' using a variety of engaging activities and prompts to boost their writing. Both supplies, and inspiration, will be provided. You need only bring your curiosity and enthusiasm.
Speakers
avatar for Cristy Watson

Cristy Watson

Cristy Watson is an award-winning author of eight middle-grade and young adult novels (hi-lo fiction) with two trade publishers (Orca Books and Lorimer Kids and Teens). Her poems have appeared in CV2 Magazine, The Poetry Marathon Anthology (for which she was also the editor of the... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Canmore

4:00pm MDT

Ask a DM
Friday August 16, 2024 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Ask a Dungeon Master

Get your various Dungeons and Dragons related questions answered by our top Dungeon Masters. No question too big, too “dumb”, or too small. We will help you get the answers you seek.

Note: This session will be held in the anteroom within the Games Room (Rundle)
Speakers
Friday August 16, 2024 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Games Room (Rundle)

4:00pm MDT

Chat GPT and Me: Exploring Expression, Evils and Ethics of AI in Creative Writing
Friday August 16, 2024 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Ever wonder what Chat GPT has to say for itself regarding expression, evils, and ethics of its own role in creative writing? Curious about how a human writer or publisher might respond? Then this panel is for you! Join us as we discuss the evils of AI, opportunities for writers and readers, transparency, imagination, and what it means to create.
Moderators
PD

Precious de Leon

Precious is a poet and speculative fiction writer. She writes through the lens of a Filipino Canadian settler in Mohkintsis/Calgary. Following her stint as a business journalist and editor in the Middle East, her creative writing journey started with the 2019 Borderlines Writers Circle... Read More →
avatar for Heather Bonin MacIntosh

Heather Bonin MacIntosh

Heather Bonin MacIntosh is a Calgary-based writer published in Humber Literary Review, three anthologies, and LavaLamp. She is past Program Director of the Sheldon Chumir Foundation for Ethics in Leadership. Currently, she is editing (still) her first novel.
Speakers
avatar for Andrew Buckley

Andrew Buckley

Author/Presenter
Andrew Buckley is a film school-educated writer, which means he's spent most of his life with no money and a high opinion about bad movies. Today, he's a traditionally and self-published novelist of rather silly, yet enjoyable fiction for all ages, a comic book writer, screenwriter... Read More →
avatar for Charles James

Charles James

Author of the action-packed Cassi Requin science fiction novels, Charles James lives in Lethbridge with his amazing wife, two awesome kids, and a couple of Guinea pigs. By day, Charles is a radiation oncology physicist and professor.
avatar for Cari Frame

Cari Frame

Cari Frame is an Internationally Certified Life Coach, writer and structural editor with over 7 years of experience helping people break through inner limits and achieve their goals. Through mindset and writing exercises, her workshops support new and established writers to get into... Read More →
avatar for ChatGPT

ChatGPT

ChatGPT is an AI-based language model developed by OpenAI.
Friday August 16, 2024 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Fairview

4:00pm MDT

MURDER AT THE AUCTION - An Interactive Clue Interpretation Workshop
Friday August 16, 2024 4:00pm - 5:20pm MDT
Test your powers of ratiocination (precise deductive reasoning) by investigating the Murder at the Auction. This immersive table top murder mystery has a crime scene tableau, two bulletin boards brimming with evidence and the personal luggage of five sinister suspects. Analyze the clues, listen to the suspects and using your keen observation decide 'whodunnit'. Participants will examine the evidence, be given a short presentation on how clues work and then re-examine the mystery to see if they reach a different conclusion.
Speakers
avatar for Juanita Rose Violini

Juanita Rose Violini

Juanita Rose Violini has written & produced live, interactive murder mystery entertainment for over 35 years. Her scripts have been produced in the illustrious Banff Springs Hotel, Chateau Lake Louise, numerous high end hotels and venues in Vancouver. They are currently available... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 4:00pm - 5:20pm MDT
Waterton

4:00pm MDT

Sit & Write
Friday August 16, 2024 4:00pm - 6:00pm MDT
Join our Sit & Write sessions in our dedicated writing room, where you'll find a quiet, inspiring environment to focus on your craft, surrounded by fellow writers. Whether you're polishing a piece or starting something new, this is your space to create and connect.

As space allows. 
Friday August 16, 2024 4:00pm - 6:00pm MDT
Heritage

5:00pm MDT

Stranger World with Jack Castle
Friday August 16, 2024 5:00pm - 5:50pm MDT
Join us for an unforgettable evening with Jack Castle, the bestselling author behind the mesmerizing series, Stranger World. Discover the heartwarming origins of this incredible saga, which began as a bedtime story for Jack's eight-year-old daughter during her illness. Hear Jack recount how he wrote a chapter each day to read to her at night, crafting the tale of a downed pilot in a strange, upside-down world searching for his kidnapped daughter. From these humble beginnings, Stranger World grew into one of Amazon's bestselling series, captivating readers worldwide.

This special event will feature autographed copies of both books one and two from the brand-new spinoff series, available for purchase. Don't miss your chance to get book two, which won't be available on Amazon until months after the festival!

Come and meet Jack Castle, delve into the Stranger World, and be among the first to own the latest spinoff series. This is an event you won't want to miss!

JackCastlebooks.com

Speakers
avatar for Jack Castle

Jack Castle

Jack Castle has been labeled by the Coeur D’Alene Press as the “Man of Adventures!” He grew up in Florida and while working as a young stuntman for Orlando Theme Parks, he was hand selected by George Lucas to play a Han Solo look-a-like for Disney's Hollywood Studios. It was... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 5:00pm - 5:50pm MDT
Bonavista Ballroom

5:00pm MDT

The Dragon Problem Release
Friday August 16, 2024 5:00pm - 5:50pm MDT
Dragon Problem: During WWC 2023 a group of workshop participants brainstormed the beginnings of a novella that a dozen authors worked on collaboratively through the year. Join us for the release of The Dragon Problem!
Speakers
avatar for Shawn L. Bird

Shawn L. Bird

BA MEd. 30+ years teaching writing/reading. 30+ publications in poetry, fiction and non-fiction. Publisher at Lintusen Press, a collaborative micropress.
Friday August 16, 2024 5:00pm - 5:50pm MDT
Fireside

5:00pm MDT

Finding Your Writing Voice Through Community: Mentorships, Critique Partners, Groups/Organizations
Friday August 16, 2024 5:00pm - 5:50pm MDT
Are you looking to find your unique writing voice, improve skills, and not have to do it alone? Join children's book authors Paola Santos and Dianne Koebel-Pede as they share valuable insights and experiences on the importance of community and connection in developing your writing style. During the session, they will share advice on what helped them on their publishing journeys, including the stumbles and victories. Topics covered include finding inspiration, building a supportive community, seeking mentorship, and investing in your craft. By the end of the session, you will have actionable ideas and tips to help you cultivate a more connected and fulfilling writing life.
Speakers
avatar for Dianne Koebel-Pede

Dianne Koebel-Pede

Dianne is a former K-9 educator, school counsellor, and Inclusive Education Coordinator. She loves learning and sharing her experiences to help others. In 2023, she was honoured to receive the Writers' Guild of Alberta Mary Bell Scholarship. Dianne participated in the WGA 2024 Mentorship... Read More →
avatar for Paola Santos

Paola Santos

Paola Santos is a children's book author born and raised in Venezuela. After moving to Canada, she found the courage to share the words and stories that had long been enclosed in her imagination. Her stories are now woven with her culture, experience in a new country, hope, happiness... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 5:00pm - 5:50pm MDT
Canmore

5:00pm MDT

Lights Up! Writing for the Stage
Friday August 16, 2024 5:00pm - 5:50pm MDT
Do you love live performances? Are you ready to bring your writing skills to a new audience? Have you ever dreamed of writing a play but it just seemed a little out of reach? How would an audience even see your work? The women of Full Circle Theatre have been writing and producing theatre in Calgary for over a decade. Together, they are ready to discuss the hows, whys, whats and dramas about writing a stage play and bringing it to life.
Speakers
avatar for Full Circle Theater

Full Circle Theater

Full Circle Theatre is a Calgary-based collective of artists who first came together in 2010. We are committed to the celebration of women in theatre. As a group, we produce classical works and write new plays - we just want to create! We strive to serve as a venue for young artists... Read More →
avatar for Megan Baldrey

Megan Baldrey

Megan Baldrey is multi-passionate artist and adult spelling bee champion based out of Calgary, Alberta (Mohkinstsis). An honours' graduate of Mount Royal University's Theatre Performance Program, Megan works as a professional voice actor by day and a playwright, arts educator and... Read More →
avatar for Claire Bolton

Claire Bolton

Claire Bolton is a graduate of the University of Calgary’s Drama department (BFA ’09), and has made her career as a stage manager, performer, producer, and educator. Upon graduating she was granted an internship with Quest Theatre, and has remained a part of the company as a member... Read More →
avatar for Erin Weir

Erin Weir

Erin Weir, BFA BEd MEd, is a Calgary-based adult educator, currently the Learning and Education Resource Specialist at University of Calgary post-graduate medical education. She has a special interest in individualized learning strategies and how they intersect with resident learning... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 5:00pm - 5:50pm MDT
Acadia

5:00pm MDT

The Editorial Stages
Friday August 16, 2024 5:00pm - 5:50pm MDT
In this session I will be discussing the different kinds of editing a book goes through before publication. There are four main stages: Developmental (Structural) Editing, Stylistic (Line) Editing, Copy Editing, and Proofreading. I will explain each stage in detail, helping authors understand when to hire editors, what to look for in an editor, and what to expect from their editor(s). The objective of my presentation is to equip authors with the knowledge they need to bring their book from first draft to final draft. Providing them with confidence as they make decisions on what steps to take and which steps will benefit them-and their work-best.
Speakers
avatar for Ashley Keller

Ashley Keller

I graduated from Ryerson University (Toronto Metropolitan University) in April 2022. I hold a graduate certificate in publishing from its Chang School of Continuing Education. Books have always been my passion, and now I dedicate my time to helping authors bring their books to publication... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 5:00pm - 5:50pm MDT
Kananaskis 2

5:00pm MDT

Power Dynamics in Fantastical Worlds
Friday August 16, 2024 5:00pm - 5:50pm MDT
In many tales, plot dynamics hinge on who has power and who doesn't. Panelists will talk how writers handle power ebbs and flows when writing fantasies.
Moderators Speakers
CG

Cat Girczyc

Cat Girczyc currently works as a technical communications manager while pursuing creative writing at night. She writes female-led stories, poems, and scripts, usually in science fiction or fantasy. Born in Alberta, she's lived in Stettler, Edmonton, Ottawa, and Vancouver. She moved... Read More →
avatar for Calvin Jim

Calvin Jim

I am a writer of Asian-speculative fiction and have been writing for over 15 years. I have been published in numerous anthologies including Prairie Gothic and Where the Stars Rise. I have been nominated for 4 Aurora Awards including 3 for Best Short Fiction. I have previously spoken... Read More →
avatar for Jonathan Sean Lyster

Jonathan Sean Lyster

independent author, Heuronic Books
Jonathan Sean Lyster likes to wrap his head around strange nows and possible futures. His novels include the science fiction thriller "Oblivion's Wake" and the Armageddon Boys urban fantasy comedy series. His short stories have appeared in "On Spec," "Analog," and "Storyteller". A... Read More →
avatar for Arlene F. Marks

Arlene F. Marks

Arlene F. Marks has been writing since the age of 6, and she has no plans to stop. A veteran teacher of the craft, she has authored two literacy programs for the classroom. Her short stories have appeared online and in print, notably in an anthology of reimagined fairy tales, Grimmer... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 5:00pm - 5:50pm MDT
Kananaskis 1

5:00pm MDT

The Pitch Games
Friday August 16, 2024 5:00pm - 5:50pm MDT
Stand up and present your best 30 second elevator pitch in front of a panel of blind (we mean that literally) judges. Train hard, this is Olympic-style "Live Action Slush" for book pitches. Pitches are given a sizzle and delivery score. Judges will hold up two scorecards. Shaky delivery? No worries, your pitch might be HOT and we'll all want to read the book. Maybe your pitch fizzles instead of sizzles? No worries, maybe you'll nail the delivery. Get a ho-hum response? Maybe there's a training montage in your future. Ready? Get your game face on, it's pitch time!
Moderators
avatar for Nicola MacCameron

Nicola MacCameron

Published Leoshine, Princess Oracle Book 1 of the Leoshine series in 2020. Working on Book 2Audiobook narrator and producer. Author on Medium.com and Sci Fi Shorts.com
Speakers
avatar for R. Graeme Cameron

R. Graeme Cameron

R. Graeme Cameron lives in Nanaimo, British Columbia. In 2016 he began publishing and editing the online speculative fiction magazine Polar Borealis. In 2021 he added Polar Starlight, devoted to speculative poetry, edited by Rhea E. Rose. He has written reviews of Canadian Speculative... Read More →
avatar for Jass Aujla

Jass Aujla

JASS AUJLA is the Canadian South-Asian author of debut suspense-thriller, NEXT OF TWIN. In addition to her twisty novels, Jass' poetry and microfiction have appeared in over ten bestselling anthology publications worldwide, including Hidden In Childhood (Literary Revelations Publishing... Read More →
avatar for Ella Beaumont

Ella Beaumont

Assistant to the Publisher, EDGE Science Fiction and Fantasy Publishing
Ella Beaumont has been professionally involved in the publishing industry in both traditional and freelancing capacities since 2012. She has experience in editing, book packaging, and sales and marketing roles. She previously served as the acquisition editor for EDGE Science Fiction... Read More →
avatar for Sam Hiyate

Sam Hiyate

Sam Hiyate is keen to discover new voices and help writers prepare their works for market, and to help them build lasting careers. In the past two decades with THE RIGHTS FACTORY his hundreds of book deals have resulted in several bestsellers such as MORE, the memoir by Molly Roden... Read More →
avatar for Carolyne Topdjian

Carolyne Topdjian

Carolyne Topdjian is author of The Black Moth and The Hitman's Daughter (Agora/Polis Books), a gothic thriller which Library Journal calls a “fast-paced, haunting novel of survival” (starred review). She has published short fiction in PRISM International, Dreamers Magazine, and Firewords Quarterly and was shortlisted for the Ghost Prize by Fractured Literary. Her creative endeavours gravitate toward fusions of gothic mystery, noir suspense, and surrealist f... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 5:00pm - 5:50pm MDT
Fairview

5:00pm MDT

Play Dungeons and Dragons
Friday August 16, 2024 5:00pm - 7:00pm MDT
Play a one-off campaign in two hours. Not only is this a great way to meet other writers and storytellers who share your interests, but it’s fun to work with a group to tell a tale. Both new and seasoned players welcome. We will have pre-made character sheets and extra dice waiting for you.

This game will be 2-hours in length.
There will be two tables with 5 spaces at each table.
Speakers
Friday August 16, 2024 5:00pm - 7:00pm MDT
Games Room (Rundle)

6:00pm MDT

Happy Hour
Friday August 16, 2024 6:00pm - 7:00pm MDT
Join us for drinks at Happy Hour before the Keynote Event. Everyone is welcome. Please note, this is a paid bar service.
Friday August 16, 2024 6:00pm - 7:00pm MDT
Bonavista Ballroom

6:00pm MDT

Tyche Books Presents: Book Launch: Carpe Noctem with Megan Fennell and Leslie Van Zwol
Friday August 16, 2024 6:00pm - 7:00pm MDT
Tyche Books is hosting a book launch event for "Carpe Noctem", which is an anthology of stories edited by Megan Fennell and Leslie Van Zwol.
Friday August 16, 2024 6:00pm - 7:00pm MDT
Kananaskis 2

7:00pm MDT

Keynote Event
Friday August 16, 2024 7:00pm - 9:00pm MDT
The Guests of Honour of the WWC 2024 festival will sit panel style to give a keynote address. Hosted by Randy McCharles.
Moderators
avatar for Randy McCharles

Randy McCharles

RANDY MCCHARLES is a full-time author of crime and speculative fiction. He is the recipient of several Aurora Awards (Canada's most prestigious award for speculative fiction), and in 2013 his short story Ghost-B-Gone Incorporated won the House of Anansi 7-day Ghost Story Contest... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Wayne Arthurson

Wayne Arthurson

Wayne Arthurson is a writer and literary agent of Cree and French-Canadian descent, the author of eight novels, five books of non-fiction and countless articles. His novels have won an Alberta Readers’ Choice Award, an Arthur Ellis Award for Crime Writing and Best Trade Fiction... Read More →
avatar for Jack Castle

Jack Castle

Jack Castle has been labeled by the Coeur D’Alene Press as the “Man of Adventures!” He grew up in Florida and while working as a young stuntman for Orlando Theme Parks, he was hand selected by George Lucas to play a Han Solo look-a-like for Disney's Hollywood Studios. It was... Read More →
avatar for Jessica Johns

Jessica Johns

Jessica Johns is a nehiyaw aunty with English-Irish ancestry and a member of Sucker Creek First Nation. Her debut novel, Bad Cree, was shortlisted for the Amazon first novel award and won the MacEwan Book of the Year prize.
avatar for Tash McAdam

Tash McAdam

Tash McAdam is a Welsh-Canadian author, activist and educator. Their publications include The Psionics (Nine Star Press), and the Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selections Blood Sport and Sink or Swim (Orca Books). They are also featured in multiple anthologies. Tash is a recipient... Read More →
avatar for Premee Mohamed

Premee Mohamed

Premee Mohamed is a Nebula, World Fantasy, and Aurora award-winning Indo-Caribbean scientist and speculative fiction author based in Edmonton, Alberta. She has also been a finalist for the Hugo, Ignyte, British Fantasy, and Crawford awards. She is an Assistant Editor at the short... Read More →
avatar for P.J. Vernon

P.J. Vernon

Lambda Literary and Queerities awards nominee, P. J. Vernon writes, lives and loves on Moh'kinstsis (Mo-ghin-s-tis), which describes the gathering place where the Bow and Elbow rivers meet and the ancestral homelands of the Siksika (Six-ih-gah) Nation, Piikani Nation (Be-gun-ee... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 7:00pm - 9:00pm MDT
Bonavista Ballroom

7:00pm MDT

Magic the Gathering Mixer
Friday August 16, 2024 7:00pm - 9:00pm MDT
Do you play Magic the Gathering? Bring your cards and find other people to play with in this awesome mixer. Any version will do, there will always be someone ready to challenge you to a fight.
Friday August 16, 2024 7:00pm - 9:00pm MDT
Games Room (Rundle)

9:00pm MDT

A Widows Guide to Dead Bastards In Conversation After Dark Ali Bryan & Jessica Waite
Friday August 16, 2024 9:00pm - 11:00pm MDT
Join authors Ali Bryan and Jessica Waite for an engaging and candid conversation after dark. They will delve into Jessica Waite's debut memoir, "A Widow's Guide to Dead Bastards." This intimate session promises to be a thought-provoking exploration of life after loss, offering unique insights and plenty of opportunities for audience interaction. Don't miss this special evening with two compelling voices in the literary community.
Speakers
avatar for Ali Bryan

Ali Bryan

Ali Bryan is an award-winning novelist and creative nonfiction writer who explores the what-ifs, the wtfs and the wait-a-minutes of every day. She crafts stories about the downtrodden and disenfranchised, the brokenhearted, and the vulnerable. About lovers and losers, mothers and... Read More →
avatar for Jessica Waite

Jessica Waite

Jessica Waite is a memoirist, essayist, and single mom to a teenage drummer. She mentors incarcerated writers through the Hero's Journey and leads grieving people to heal through story. Jessica is the recipient of the Jon Whyte Memorial essay award and her work has been anthologized... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 9:00pm - 11:00pm MDT
Fireside

9:00pm MDT

Let's Play Quiplash
Friday August 16, 2024 9:00pm - 11:00pm MDT
A panel of writers get together to come up with the funniest quips they can based on prompts. Bring your phone or tablet with internet connection to play along. 6-8 players will play at one time with audience participation for voting.
Speakers
avatar for Jonathan Whitelaw

Jonathan Whitelaw

Jonathan Whitelaw is an award-winning author, journalist and broadcaster. After working on the frontline of Scottish politics, he moved into journalism, covering everything from sports to music to radioactive waste – and everything in between. He's also a regular reviewer, panelist... Read More →
avatar for Kevin Weir

Kevin Weir

I began my work in film before becoming an author of page, stage, and screen. A fan of fantastical worlds, I found a way to channel my chaotic energies into wild yarns, taking readers on unforgettable journeys. My debut novel, Endless Hunger, was praised as a "riveting, genre-blending... Read More →
avatar for Erin Weir

Erin Weir

Erin Weir, BFA BEd MEd, is a Calgary-based adult educator, currently the Learning and Education Resource Specialist at University of Calgary post-graduate medical education. She has a special interest in individualized learning strategies and how they intersect with resident learning... Read More →
ML

Mark Leslie

Mark’s first short story appeared in print in 1992, the same year he started working in the book industry. He has published more than twenty-five books under the name Mark Leslie that include thrillers and fiction (Evasion, A Canadian Werewolf in New York, One Hand Screaming... Read More →
avatar for Naomi Davis

Naomi Davis

Authors have always been Naomi Davis's superheroes. Growing up in Minnesota, they spent their elementary years pretending they were every character in every book they read. A life-long writer and author-fanatic, they have a mild to moderate obsession with slippers, and sing in two... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 9:00pm - 11:00pm MDT
Kananaskis 1

9:00pm MDT

Naughty Night Reads
Friday August 16, 2024 9:00pm - 11:00pm MDT
“Lots of sugar and a little bit of spice.”

Come join us on Friday night for a sharing of titillating prose and poetry. Come to listen, come to read. Every form, from the bawdy limerick to the erotic haiku to the yearning sonnet, to all those subtle shades of grey … adult-geared writing for after the sun goes down. Please though, no violence or abusive/degrading material, and use your discretion on the explicitness … this is not porn, but literary erotica.
Speakers
avatar for Josephine LoRe

Josephine LoRe

a pearl in this diamond worldJosephine LoRe has shared her poetry live on stage, in podcasts and radio programs, and in international zoom rooms. Her words have been put to music, danced, and integrated into visual art. She has two collections, Unity and the Calgary Herald Bestseller... Read More →
avatar for Jennifer Slebioda

Jennifer Slebioda

Emerging photo-poet, Jennifer Slebioda, published for the first time in POLAR BOREALIS #19 – Aug-Sep 2021 in the #19, September 2021 issue, resides in Calgary, Alberta, with her two teenagers and two cats. With decades as an amateur photographer, private poet, journal writer... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 9:00pm - 11:00pm MDT
Fairview

9:00pm MDT

Noir at the Bar
Friday August 16, 2024 9:00pm - 11:00pm MDT
Reach your scarlet painted fingernails around the throats of the audience. Stretch your tantric tentacles over the flesh of the restless crowd. Share the deepest, darkest, most delicious desires you've unwillingly captured on the tainted page. There is an audience waiting...craving to swallow stories seeded from darkness, twisted with sex and violence, and bloated with bleakness. 

Signature cocktail will be served (cash bar).
Prize for most tantalizing read, to be determined by crowd response.

If you want to read, please sign up at killersanddemons@gmail.com to secure your spot. Limited to 13 readers.

Additional Info:

  • Names will be drawn at random to determine order of readings at the event.
  • 7 minute MAXIMUM reading, will be enforced. 
  • When people sign up, I will ask for a short intro I can use for them.
Speakers
avatar for Julie Hiner

Julie Hiner

Killers and Demons
Julie Hiner spent her childhood lost in the pages of books. The only thing that took precedence was her Walkman. Julie remains a hardcore 80s rocker at heart. Julie worked as a computer scientist, specializing in network simulation. On a break, she published an inspirational book... Read More →
Friday August 16, 2024 9:00pm - 11:00pm MDT
Kananaskis 2

9:00pm MDT

Star Trek Improv Voice Over (18+)
Friday August 16, 2024 9:00pm - 11:00pm MDT
Space, the final frontier
These are the voyages of the Starship Enterprise
Its five-year mission to explore strange new words
To seek out new lines and new romantic interests
To boldly go where no Star Trek has gone before

Use your improv skills to voice over two classic Star Trek episodes. All the sound effects, all the music, no voices. Only you can fill in the blanks. Will you give the captain’s log? What is the red shirt complaining about now? Or will you be Bones? “Dammit Jim, I’m a doctor, not a…” Let’s work together to find out and laugh together.
Friday August 16, 2024 9:00pm - 11:00pm MDT
Games Room (Rundle)
 
Saturday, August 17
 

8:00am MDT

Creative Mornings with Miranda Krogstad
Saturday August 17, 2024 8:00am - 8:50am MDT
Stolen time: A slow reflection and goal setting session, before the hustle and bustle of the day, to focus on what you’d like from your craft and your career.
Speakers
avatar for Miranda Krogstad

Miranda Krogstad

Presenter / Content creator, YYSpeak
Miranda Krogstad is a TEDx speaker and bestselling author of the book Glass Half Full of Poetry.  A spoken word poet, eternal optimist, and workshop facilitator, Krogstad has connected with thousands of writers in dozens of cities across Western Canada.  A member of the 2016 national... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 8:00am - 8:50am MDT
Waterton

8:00am MDT

Open Boardgames
Saturday August 17, 2024 8:00am - 11:00pm MDT
Come on in and play board games with your new friends, or make some new friends playing board games.
Saturday August 17, 2024 8:00am - 11:00pm MDT
Games Room (Rundle)

9:00am MDT

Internal Conflict: Writing a Character's Personal Struggle
Saturday August 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
Not only is internal conflict central to character arc and the story's resolution, it is also a magnet for reader fascination and empathy. Join Angela as she unpacks cognitive and emotional dissonance and how to bring readers in close as a character tries to resolve their inner struggles.
Speakers
avatar for Angela Ackerman

Angela Ackerman

Angela Ackerman is a story coach, international speaker, and co-author of the bestselling book, The Emotion Thesaurus: A Writer's Guide to Character Expression, and its many sequels. Available in nine languages, her guides are sourced by universities, recommended by agents and editors... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
Fireside

9:00am MDT

Journaling: A Portal to the Creative Self
Saturday August 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
For over 20 years, Gail has used daily journaling as a tool to foster creativity and self reflection. Using Cameron's Morning Pages, and relying on memory, emotional intelligence, and intuition, many ideas, characters, opening sentences, and images have surfaced that have found their way into her work, both professional and creative. In this presentation she will discuss this method and explore both barriers to journaling and ways to surmount them, so that we can move into experimental and innovative territory where the "What If?" question becomes a guide to our writing now.
Speakers
avatar for Gail Vallance Barrington

Gail Vallance Barrington

Gail Vallance Barrington, who has authored two academic textbooks, has finally retired! Now she is pursuing her passion for creative writing. Being a long-time journal writer has helped her hone her skills and polish her imagination. Her short stories, novels, and poetry are touched... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
Waterton

9:00am MDT

AI Ethics in writing and art
Saturday August 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
Midjourney, Chat GPT, prompt engineering.
Writers and artists discuss the controversial ethics on the biggest revolution since the invention of the printing press - Artificial Intelligence.
Moderators
avatar for Lynda Williams

Lynda Williams

Lynda Williams (she/her) is a graduate of the Humber School for Writers Creative Writing program, where she studied under the mentorship of Danila Botha. The resulting collection of stories is forthcoming from Guernica Editions in 2025. Her work has appeared in Grain, the Humber Literary... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Ron S. Friedman

Ron S. Friedman

RON S. FRIEDMAN is an award-winning science fiction author from Calgary. His novel, TYPHOON TIME, is an Amazon.ca #1 Best Seller in Time-Travel, his collection, ESCAPE VELOCITY, is Calgary Herald #1 Best Seller, and his story, GAME NOT OVER, is a Best Short Fiction finalist in the... Read More →
avatar for Andrew Snook

Andrew Snook

Andrew Snook is a professional writer and editor. His non-fiction and fiction writing have earned him a combined 21 national and international writing awards. Snook is also the founder of Canadian Independent Publishers, which is dedicated to showcasing indie writers, bookstores and... Read More →
avatar for Jim Jackson

Jim Jackson

Author, speaker and gentleman Jim Jackson is a Calgary Herald bestselling author, vintage leather jacket enthusiast and dabbler in the dark arts of blues music. Jim’s mission is to show how the stories we all grew up with – the heroes, the monsters, the adventures – are still... Read More →
avatar for Charles James

Charles James

Author of the action-packed Cassi Requin science fiction novels, Charles James lives in Lethbridge with his amazing wife, two awesome kids, and a couple of Guinea pigs. By day, Charles is a radiation oncology physicist and professor.
Saturday August 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
Fairview

9:00am MDT

Mastering the Macabre: Techniques in Crime, Mystery, and Thriller Writing
Saturday August 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
This session will explore the techniques used to create heart-pounding narratives that keep readers hooked until the very end. Hear from panelists as they discuss how to craft compelling mysteries, develop intricate crime plots, and evoke suspense. Ideal for writers seeking to sharpen their skills and fans of the genre, this discussion promises to be both enlightening and entertaining.
Moderators
avatar for Susan Calder

Susan Calder

Susan Calder is a Calgary writer who grew up in Montreal. She is the author of five novels published by BWL Publishing. Four of the books are part of her Paula Savard mystery series set in Calgary. The fifth is a standalone suspense. Susan's six novel, a mystery set in Calgary in... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Linda Keith

Linda Keith

Linda is an award-nominated indie author from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Her debut novel, Black Iris, was shortlisted for the 2021 Rakuten Kobo Emerging Writer Prize in the Mystery/Thriller category. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree in English literature from the University of Alberta... Read More →
avatar for Madona Skaff

Madona Skaff

Madona Skaff is the author of the Naya Investigates series, about a young woman disabled by multiple sclerosis, who turns sleuth to solve crimes. In book one, Journey of a Thousand Steps, Naya searches for a missing friend. In book 2, Death by Association, she's tracking a serial... Read More →
avatar for Juanita Rose Violini

Juanita Rose Violini

Juanita Rose Violini has written & produced live, interactive murder mystery entertainment for over 35 years. Her scripts have been produced in the illustrious Banff Springs Hotel, Chateau Lake Louise, numerous high end hotels and venues in Vancouver. They are currently available... Read More →
avatar for P.D. Workman

P.D. Workman

P.D. Workman is a USA Today Bestselling author, winner of several awards from Library Services for Youth in Custody and the InD'tale Magazine's Crowned Heart award. With over 100 published books, Workman is one of Canada's most prolific authors. Her mystery/suspense/thriller and young... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
Bonavista Ballroom

9:00am MDT

Troubleshooting Your Manuscript
Saturday August 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
You only get one chance to make a good first impression. Before submitting that manuscript to a prospective agent or editor, make sure it's the best that it can be, using these revision, editing, and proofreading tips from a panel of authors and editors.
Moderators
avatar for Nikki West

Nikki West

"Evoke feeling instead of demanding attention." -Nikki WestIf you ask Nikki, the owner of Descriptive, the answer is pretty much always marketing! An experienced natural writer, Nikki brings a sixth sense for the flow of words on a page as well as a style all her own; she draws the... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Ella Beaumont

Ella Beaumont

Assistant to the Publisher, EDGE Science Fiction and Fantasy Publishing
Ella Beaumont has been professionally involved in the publishing industry in both traditional and freelancing capacities since 2012. She has experience in editing, book packaging, and sales and marketing roles. She previously served as the acquisition editor for EDGE Science Fiction... Read More →
avatar for R. Graeme Cameron

R. Graeme Cameron

R. Graeme Cameron lives in Nanaimo, British Columbia. In 2016 he began publishing and editing the online speculative fiction magazine Polar Borealis. In 2021 he added Polar Starlight, devoted to speculative poetry, edited by Rhea E. Rose. He has written reviews of Canadian Speculative... Read More →
avatar for Alison McBain

Alison McBain

Alison McBain’s novels are the recipients of over 13 awards, including the Foreword INDIES. When not writing for herself, she’s a ghostwriter who has penned over two dozen books for clients, as well as an award-winning editor who has worked with both celebrity and NY Times-bestselling... Read More →
avatar for Steven Owad

Steven Owad

Steven lives in Calgary and works as an editor. His novels have been praised in publications such as Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine and Mystery Scene, and his stage plays have been produced in theaters throughout North America. As a journalist, Steven has written hundreds of feature... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
Kananaskis 2

9:00am MDT

Writing for pure joy: A panel of Fan Fiction Writers
Saturday August 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
Sure, we all want fame and recognition, but can we put that to the side for an hour and talk about the pure joy of writing fan fiction? Be inspired by a variety of fan fiction writers as they share why they decided to write fan fiction, the process of diving into a beloved work, and the perks of being a fan fiction writer.
Moderators
avatar for Cordell Vos

Cordell Vos

With more than twelve years of marketing and communications experience, and a decade more of personal fiction writing, Cordell Vos has made telling great stories a cornerstone of his personal and professional life.
Speakers
avatar for Samantha Adkins

Samantha Adkins

I am a writer, teacher and mother living on Bowen Island, B.C. and have published three Jane Austen-inspired novels Expectations, Suspiciously Reserved, and Banff Springs Abbey, published with City Lights Press. My adult romance novels Emmy in Harding and After His Heart, and my young... Read More →
AN

Ashley Newell 

Ashley Newell has been a storyteller since childhood, having her first short story publication at 13 years old. She has gone on to write the Freakhouse series (2012), has been a finalist in the Writer’s Digest Short Story Award (2020), and designs board games — including Outlander... Read More →
avatar for Erin Weir

Erin Weir

Erin Weir, BFA BEd MEd, is a Calgary-based adult educator, currently the Learning and Education Resource Specialist at University of Calgary post-graduate medical education. She has a special interest in individualized learning strategies and how they intersect with resident learning... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
Kananaskis 1

9:00am MDT

Descriptive Details - How much is too much, or too little?
Saturday August 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
It's a fine line between being overly wordy in your writing, or not saying enough! We'll look at ways to identify those potential weak spots in your writing, and explore some methods to correct them!
Speakers
avatar for Lisa D. Wilde

Lisa D. Wilde

Lisa has been writing part-time for over 45 years. She was a participant in the Clarion Workshop for Science Fiction and Fantasy in 1984, and since then has worked with local writing groups, sharing the Clarion “method” of workshopping. She has two novels – both in the fantasy sword and sorcery genre – in the final stages of getting ready for publishing. She hopes to debut one of them this year at When Words Collide. She has been a past presenter since 2018, and during the Zoom years... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
Acadia

9:00am MDT

How To Haiku
Saturday August 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
There will be an overview of haiku poetics, followed by a writing session. Participants will gain a basic understanding of the haiku form, and compose one of their own. Publication suggestions will be offered.
Speakers
avatar for Josephine LoRe

Josephine LoRe

a pearl in this diamond worldJosephine LoRe has shared her poetry live on stage, in podcasts and radio programs, and in international zoom rooms. Her words have been put to music, danced, and integrated into visual art. She has two collections, Unity and the Calgary Herald Bestseller... Read More →
avatar for Joanne Morcom

Joanne Morcom

I write and publish haiku poetry in print and online journals. I'm the author of five poetry collections. I write poetry book reviews for two poetry journals. I'm a member of Haiku Canada, Tanka Canada and Writers Guild of Alberta.
Saturday August 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
Canmore

9:00am MDT

How to Play D&D
Saturday August 17, 2024 9:00am - 10:00am MDT
Learn to play Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) in one short hour with some of our amazing Dungeon Masters! They will make this world-famous collaborative storytelling game make sense and get you up to speed so you can play a game this weekend to check it out.
Speakers
Saturday August 17, 2024 9:00am - 10:00am MDT
Games Room (Rundle)

9:00am MDT

Sit & Write
Saturday August 17, 2024 9:00am - 10:00am MDT
Join our Sit & Write sessions in our dedicated writing room, where you'll find a quiet, inspiring environment to focus on your craft, surrounded by fellow writers. Whether you're polishing a piece or starting something new, this is your space to create and connect.

As space allows. 
Saturday August 17, 2024 9:00am - 10:00am MDT
Heritage

10:00am MDT

THE ULTIMATE 12-STEP SELF-HELP GUIDE FOR WRITERS & AUTHORS
Saturday August 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
The world is full of self-help solutions to aid all manner of afflictions, except when it comes to being a writer. We all suffer the same problems: we question our career choices, invite procrastination, and are often crushed with paralyzing self-doubt. This 12-step self-help guide is designed to help writers get out of their own way, and empowers attendees to do what they do best—create!
Speakers
avatar for Andrew Buckley

Andrew Buckley

Author/Presenter
Andrew Buckley is a film school-educated writer, which means he's spent most of his life with no money and a high opinion about bad movies. Today, he's a traditionally and self-published novelist of rather silly, yet enjoyable fiction for all ages, a comic book writer, screenwriter... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
Acadia

10:00am MDT

I swear, it's just research! Hiding bodies, launching things into space, forging swords, et cetera.
Saturday August 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
Have you ever picked up a book with a promising premise, only to be disappointed when the writer gets crucial details wrong? To avoid this, join librarian Cheryl Bain for a presentation on effective research to support strong narratives.

Whether you need to plot a believable murder, explore theories about black holes, or find accurate details for a mid-1800s battlefield, this session will provide the tools you need. Cheryl will guide you through evaluating information sources and introduce you to high-quality, free or nearly free resources beneficial to writers.

These tips will be valuable for both fiction and nonfiction writers in any format. (Not intended for aspiring supervillains or criminals!)
Speakers
avatar for Cheryl D. Bain

Cheryl D. Bain

Cheryl Bain has always had questions. She learned many answers during her BSc and looked for more as a graduate student. However, Cheryl remained curious about many things outside her chemistry program. She realized that the best place to feed her curiosity was where her besieged... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
Kananaskis 2

10:00am MDT

Ask An Agent with The Rights Factory
Saturday August 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
Join this insightful panel discussion where agents from The Rights Factory will answer your burning questions about the publishing industry. Gain valuable insights into what agents look for in a manuscript, the submission process, and how to effectively pitch your work.
Moderators
avatar for Irena Karshenbaum

Irena Karshenbaum

Writer
Irena Karshenbaum is best known for leading a project that rescued one of the last surviving historic prairie synagogues and giving it as a gift to Heritage Park. She writes stories on history, heritage, culture, books and travel for various publications, gives public talks on history... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Wayne Arthurson

Wayne Arthurson

Wayne Arthurson is a writer and literary agent of Cree and French-Canadian descent, the author of eight novels, five books of non-fiction and countless articles. His novels have won an Alberta Readers’ Choice Award, an Arthur Ellis Award for Crime Writing and Best Trade Fiction... Read More →
avatar for Jennifer Chevais

Jennifer Chevais

Jennifer Chevais is an Associate Literary Agent at The Rights Factory. She's primarily interested in Commercial Horror, Fantasy, SciFi, and all the intersections in between with characters so strong they'll either break your heart or pull it right out of your body.
avatar for Sam Hiyate

Sam Hiyate

Sam Hiyate is keen to discover new voices and help writers prepare their works for market, and to help them build lasting careers. In the past two decades with THE RIGHTS FACTORY his hundreds of book deals have resulted in several bestsellers such as MORE, the memoir by Molly Roden... Read More →
avatar for Stacey Kondla

Stacey Kondla

A life-long bibliophile, Stacey’s experience includes working as a Field Representative for Scholastic Book Fairs, managing at Chapters/Indigo stores, freelance editing, and serving on the organizing committee of When Words Collide (A Festival for Readers and Writers). She joined... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
Bonavista Ballroom

10:00am MDT

The art of the zero draft
Saturday August 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
Tips and tricks for getting that idea out of your head and into the vague semblance of a story. This presentation will offer concrete strategies and techniques to develop a concept into a real working draft.
Speakers
avatar for Tash McAdam

Tash McAdam

Tash McAdam is a Welsh-Canadian author, activist and educator. Their publications include The Psionics (Nine Star Press), and the Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selections Blood Sport and Sink or Swim (Orca Books). They are also featured in multiple anthologies. Tash is a recipient... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
Fireside

10:00am MDT

Self Publisher’s Guide to Marketing
Saturday August 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
Marketing is one of the most important elements of a self-publishing author's journey. Whether you’re planning to make this a career or fulfilling a passion project, you’ll want to ensure you establish the right marketing strategy for your book. This workshop will provide an overview of the foundational marketing practices needed to build an audience for your book prior to publication and in the long term. We’ll also explore the differences between hiring a company to handle your book promotion versus executing those pieces yourself with or without coaching. Within the vast expanse of publishing, it’s easy for authors to feel overwhelmed. The goal of this workshop is to provide a clear understanding of your options, the marketing services available to you, and develop an informed opinion on how to best move forward in your publishing journey.
Speakers
avatar for Leanne Janzen

Leanne Janzen

Starting her journey in the publishing world, Leanne began working as a Publishing Specialist - guiding authors through the self publishing process with care and attention. Her ability to form relationships and desire to continually improve and learn led her to the University of Winnipeg. There... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
Fairview

10:00am MDT

Selling Your Manuscript Without Platform
Saturday August 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
Want to publish your manuscript, but don't have a million TikTok followers? This workshop may give you hope. Having sold her memoir to a Big 5 publisher in less than two weeks, Jessica Waite will offer participants tips to consider while writing their manuscripts, and breakdown the marketing section of her successful book proposal, paying particular attention to the notion of platform. Engage in lively discussions, brainstorming sessions, and idea sharing for your own projects. Plus, get an exclusive peek into Jessica's marketing tips for debut authors from her "Shadow Launch Prep" newsletter.
Speakers
avatar for Jessica Waite

Jessica Waite

Jessica Waite is a memoirist, essayist, and single mom to a teenage drummer. She mentors incarcerated writers through the Hero's Journey and leads grieving people to heal through story. Jessica is the recipient of the Jon Whyte Memorial essay award and her work has been anthologized... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
Canmore

10:00am MDT

Blue Pencil Session with Jonathan Whitelaw (Preregistration required)
Saturday August 17, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am MDT
Bring the 1st page of your manuscript (max 1000 words, typed, double-spaced) for one-on-one feedback. There are 4 spots available, sign-up is required.

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN:
When Words Collide 2024: Blue Pencil Session with Jonathan Whitelaw (signupgenius.com)

Or navigate from the AWCS website: WWC - Blue Pencil Sessions (alexandrawriters.org)
Speakers
avatar for Jonathan Whitelaw

Jonathan Whitelaw

Jonathan Whitelaw is an award-winning author, journalist and broadcaster. After working on the frontline of Scottish politics, he moved into journalism, covering everything from sports to music to radioactive waste – and everything in between. He's also a regular reviewer, panelist... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am MDT
Cascade

10:00am MDT

Quick and Dirty D&D
Saturday August 17, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am MDT
Don’t have a lot of time? New to Dungeons and Dragons and just want to try it out? Come and play using a simplified pre-made character sheet and a Dungeon Master who will walk you through it. A great game for both new and seasoned players.

There will be two tables each with 5 spaces. 
Speakers
Saturday August 17, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am MDT
Games Room (Rundle)

10:00am MDT

The Truth of It
Saturday August 17, 2024 10:00am - 11:20am MDT
Join retired Homicide Detective, Dave Sweet, with Val King on a presentation on Interrogation Techniques. Dave will talk about his many experiences in the interrogation room and how he's gotten to the truth. Val King will bring in some videos on Profiler Techniques. As stated before, Val is not a profiler. Together, it is our hope that this presentation will give you insight and inspiration for your next crime novel.
Speakers
avatar for Valerie L. King

Valerie L. King

Valerie L. King is a member if the Imaginative Fiction Writers Association (IFWA) and Calgary Crime Writers. She has some published short stories and is currently writing an urban fantasy series as well as several non-fiction books. Her passions are music, art, and volunteering with... Read More →
avatar for Dave Sweet

Dave Sweet

With 25 years of policing experience, Detective Dave Sweet (retired) has investigated some of Canada’s most heinous crimes.Over his career, Dave worked as a patrol officer, an undercover police officer and led several task forces targeting gangs and organized crime groups operating... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 10:00am - 11:20am MDT
Kananaskis 1

10:00am MDT

Mastering Point of View in Fiction Writing with Robert J Sawyer
Saturday August 17, 2024 10:00am - 11:50am MDT
Join us for a deep dive into the world of narrative perspective in fiction writing. In this masterclass, you'll learn to navigate the complexities of first-person and third-person narration, understanding their strengths, weaknesses, and how to avoid point-of-view pitfalls. Most beginner writers have a hard time choosing the appropriate point of view for their stories—and an even harder time sticking to it. Printed fiction can be more powerful than film, TV, or stage plays because it allows us to get inside the head of our viewpoint character—to actually become someone in the story. But a poor choice of point-of-view character can leave the reader uninvolved, and violations of the limited perspective provided by a specific point of view can rip the reader right out of the story.

Through interactive discussions and practical exercises, you'll gain the tools to keep your readers engaged and immersed in your narrative from beginning to end.
Speakers
avatar for Robert J. Sawyer

Robert J. Sawyer

Robert J. Sawyer — called “the dean of Canadian science fiction” by both the CBC and The Ottawa Citizen — is the only Canadian to have won all three of the world’s top awards for best science-fiction novel of the year: the Hugo, the Nebula, and the John W. Campbell Memorial... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 10:00am - 11:50am MDT
Waterton

10:00am MDT

Is Your Story Really Ready for Submission? (Preregistration required)
Saturday August 17, 2024 10:00am - 12:00pm MDT
On Spec Magazine (https://onspecmag.wordpress.com/) editors Barb Galler-Smith, Lareina Abbott, and Ann Marston provide full editorial critiques on your story (or Chapter 1) in a 15-minute one-on-one discussion. All genres. No more than 3500 words (query if longer).

Maximum 8 participants. Must preregister and provide manuscript in advance (e-copies are best). You will receive submission details and guidelines upon registration.

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN:
Is Your Story Really Ready for Submission? On Spec Magazine Preregistration (alexandrawriters.org)

Or visit the AWCS website:
When Words Collide 2024 - Volume Two (alexandrawriters.org)
Speakers
avatar for Lareina Abbott

Lareina Abbott

Lareina Abbott pens Métis themed speculative fiction, essays and memoir. Her stories have a tie to the spiritual or natural world, and to ancestry. She received the Writers Guild of Alberta 2023 Howard O’Hagan award for her short story “Ma Soeur Marie” published in the Prairie... Read More →
BG

Barb Galler-Smith

Barb Galler-Smith has been a fiction editor with On Spec Magazine since 2008. She's an award-winning writer and co-author of an Aurora nominee novel Druids, Book 1 of an historical fantasy trilogy. She's been a judge for various writing competitions, a freelance editor, and has taught... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 10:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Heritage

11:00am MDT

Real Medieval life versus fantasy’s Medieval life
Saturday August 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am MDT
What a dragon should know about real castle sieges. Compares real medieval life with its fantasy counterparts, focusing on aspects like castle sieges.
Speakers
DW

David Worsick

David Worsick is a retired technical writer and active fiction writer who has some short stories and one children's book (Henry's Gift) published. He has a B.Sc. Geology and an MBA (be afraid, very afraid).
avatar for Ron S. Friedman

Ron S. Friedman

RON S. FRIEDMAN is an award-winning science fiction author from Calgary. His novel, TYPHOON TIME, is an Amazon.ca #1 Best Seller in Time-Travel, his collection, ESCAPE VELOCITY, is Calgary Herald #1 Best Seller, and his story, GAME NOT OVER, is a Best Short Fiction finalist in the... Read More →
avatar for Marie Powell

Marie Powell

Marie Powell’s castle-hopping adventures across North Wales resulted in her medieval fantasy series Last of the Gifted: Spirit Sight and Water Sight, set in 13th C Wales. Marie is also the author of 40+ children’s books with such publishers as Scholastic Education and Amicus... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am MDT
Fairview

11:00am MDT

Technically Correct: Getting the technical aspects of fiction right
Saturday August 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am MDT
Making worlds realistic can be difficult. What medical conditions may induce short-term memory loss? How do courts of law really treat hearsay evidence? What is the real technique for picking a lock? This becomes even more difficult in SFF writing: how do we write space travel, futuristic medicine or fantastical architecture in a realistic way? Learn how to write accessibly but credibly about your research and special interests.
Moderators
avatar for Heather Clitheroe

Heather Clitheroe

Heather (she/they) is from Calgary, Alberta. Her science fiction and fantasy stories have appeared in Beneath Ceaseless Skies, Lightspeed, and more. Heather teaches creative writing at the University of Calgary, and leads writing workshops with the Calgary Public Library. She's also... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Tom Brookes

Tom Brookes

Tom is a Calgary-based speculative fiction writer focusing upon finding hope in our tech dystopia. His debut novel Persistence of Vision (Dixi Books: London, UK) was published in 2023. His current speculative fiction novel was accepted into the AWCS's six-month Author Development... Read More →
avatar for Premee Mohamed

Premee Mohamed

Premee Mohamed is a Nebula, World Fantasy, and Aurora award-winning Indo-Caribbean scientist and speculative fiction author based in Edmonton, Alberta. She has also been a finalist for the Hugo, Ignyte, British Fantasy, and Crawford awards. She is an Assistant Editor at the short... Read More →
avatar for Emily Yu

Emily Yu

Emily Yu (she/they) is a second-generation Chinese Canadian with many pets and far too many hobbies. She is an Editor and Illustrator for Heartlines Spec magazine, and her work has been published in Ricepaper magazine, Hearth Stories, Luna Station Quarterly, Landed: Transformative... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am MDT
Kananaskis 2

11:00am MDT

Writing as Treaty People
Saturday August 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am MDT
This keynote will discuss what it means for writers to uphold their Treaty responsibilities and how these principles should guide our relationships with the broader literary community, one another, and the land we live on.
Speakers
avatar for Jessica Johns

Jessica Johns

Jessica Johns is a nehiyaw aunty with English-Irish ancestry and a member of Sucker Creek First Nation. Her debut novel, Bad Cree, was shortlisted for the Amazon first novel award and won the MacEwan Book of the Year prize.
Saturday August 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am MDT
Fireside

11:00am MDT

Character Selfie
Saturday August 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am MDT
Bring a character to life in one surprisingly enlightening lesson in drawing. No previous drawing experience is necessary.
Speakers
avatar for Brenda Carre

Brenda Carre

Brenda Carre is a multi-published author of short fiction. Her work can be found in the Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Pulp Literature Magazine, Fiction River Anthologies, Pulphouse Fiction Magazine, Wordfire Press and many other publications. She is currently at work on... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am MDT
Acadia

11:00am MDT

Intro to Improv: Have fun and find creativity
Saturday August 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am MDT
Join us for an Intro to Improv class where you learn to laugh and embrace failure in a low-risk environment. Using non-performative experiential exercises, you will learn to take risks, embrace failure and be more comfortable with the unknown. This class is not about performance or making you a great comedian. This class will help you connect and communicate with people in a safe and fun space. As well as turning on your creativity and seeing where it takes you!
Speakers
avatar for Aaron Ranger

Aaron Ranger

Aaron has been teaching and directing Improv and Theatre for 15 years. He has been trained by many people from around the world and brings those views into his teaching.He has taught people in his hometown of Calgary from grade 1 children to 86-year-old adults. He has taught drop-in... Read More →
avatar for Jessica Belbin

Jessica Belbin

Jessica has 16 years of experience as a long form improviser and 7 years of experience as a facilitator. Combining these two skills, Jessica is a compassionate, funny and attentive facilitator of improv. She uses improvisation to help build and grow human skills so that we can communicate... Read More →
avatar for The Kinkonauts

The Kinkonauts

CREATING EXTRAORDINARY UNSCRIPTED THEATRE SINCE 2006.​The Kinkonauts have been delighting audiences, developing improvisers, and building community for more than 15 years. Every show is a unique, never to be repeated adventure. Enjoy the tightrope thrill of performers living in... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am MDT
Bonavista Ballroom

11:00am MDT

Story to game - How to be a Dungeon Master
Saturday August 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am MDT
If you are a great storyteller, you can be a great Dungeon Master. Learn all the tips and tricks to take an engaging story and make it collaborative, fun, and challenging – without being frustrating. Become the hero your friends need, and learn to be a Dungeon Master.
Speakers
Saturday August 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am MDT
Games Room (Rundle)

11:00am MDT

Ask a DM
Saturday August 17, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Ask a Dungeon Master

Get your various Dungeons and Dragons related questions answered by our top Dungeon Masters. No question too big, too “dumb”, or too small. We will help you get the answers you seek.

Note: This session will be held in the anteroom within the Games Room (Rundle)
Speakers
avatar for Rhonda Parrish

Rhonda Parrish

Rhonda is the editor of many anthologies including, most recently, Earth: Giants, Golems and Gargoyles, Grimm, Grit and Gasoline: An anthology of Dieselpunk and Decopunk Fairy Tales and F is for Fairy. In addition, Rhonda is a writer whose work has been in publications such as Tesseracts... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Games Room (Rundle)

11:00am MDT

Pitch Session for Rowan Prose Publishing (Preregistration required)
Saturday August 17, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Rowan Prose Publishing is a boutique publisher of romance, cozy mysteries, thriller, fantasy, YA, and horror, offering pitch sessions for Romance and Cozy Mystery. There are only 6 spots available, sign-up required!

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN:
When Words Collide 2024: Pitch Session with Rowan Prose Publishing (signupgenius.com)

Or visit the AWCS website:
WWC - Pitch Sessions (alexandrawriters.org)
Speakers
avatar for Katie O’Connor

Katie O’Connor

Katie O'Connor is a sweet contemporary romance author who resides in Calgary, Alberta. She has over 30 published titles including an author career planning workbook. She has been traditionally and independently published. She is a writing mentor as well as a romance acquisitions editor... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Cascade

11:00am MDT

Triggers, Traumas, and Secret Shame: Going Deep to Create Authentic Characters
Saturday August 17, 2024 11:00am - 12:20pm MDT
A writer can have the most well-developed plot and the most beautifully crafted language, but without authentic characters, readers lose interest. Characters need to live and breathe on the page. Tapping into the triggers and traumas of your characters help bring them to life on the page. This workshop will blend instruction and generative writing to help participants learn to craft well-rounded characters.
Speakers
avatar for Finnian Burnett

Finnian Burnett

Finnian Burnett holds a doctoral degree in English pedagogy and teaches undergrad creative writing and English. Their writing explores intersections of identity — fatness, mental health, disability, queer joy. Finnian was a finalist for the 2023 CBC Nonfiction Prize. Their... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 11:00am - 12:20pm MDT
Canmore

12:00pm MDT

Writers' Speed Mingle
Saturday August 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:50pm MDT
WWC's perennial favorite meet and greet returns. Speed dating for writers - only instead of looking for a love relationship, you're looking for critique partners or new people to add to your network. A short questionnaire gets you started. Expect short blocks of time as you rotate around the room. Bring your business cards and an eye for opportunity.
Speakers
avatar for Ella Beaumont

Ella Beaumont

Assistant to the Publisher, EDGE Science Fiction and Fantasy Publishing
Ella Beaumont has been professionally involved in the publishing industry in both traditional and freelancing capacities since 2012. She has experience in editing, book packaging, and sales and marketing roles. She previously served as the acquisition editor for EDGE Science Fiction... Read More →
avatar for Ron Bender

Ron Bender

Took an arrow to the knee... Now he tells stories. Stay awhile and listen. A born storyteller with a passion for cyberpunk, gaming, and all things tech. Once known as Roland the Savage. Since retired from mock combat. Also retired from business consulting. Ron Bender is the author... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:50pm MDT
Kananaskis 1

12:00pm MDT

Map-Making for Authors
Saturday August 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:50pm MDT
Words are the bread-and-butter of writers, so sometimes the need to draw something--like a map--can be intimidating. Whether it's a country, city, or building, there are tricks and strategies for making maps that even the most artistically challenged writers can manage.
Speakers
avatar for Amanda Witow

Amanda Witow

Amanda Witow is the author of the historical fantasy series, Legend's Legacy. An upper elementary teacher with a BA in psychology and classical studies, she is, indisputably, a nerd. She regularly participates in NaNoWriMo (and has even won several times), shares excerpts and short... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:50pm MDT
Fairview

12:00pm MDT

Writing Middle Grade
Saturday August 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:50pm MDT
Do you want to write for kids but are not interested in penning picture books? Middle grade might be the right fit for you! Listen to our panel of experienced middle-grade authors discuss what it means to write middle grade, the difference between middle-grade and YA, what librarians and teachers are looking for, and ask any questions you may have.
Moderators
avatar for Andrew Buckley

Andrew Buckley

Author/Presenter
Andrew Buckley is a film school-educated writer, which means he's spent most of his life with no money and a high opinion about bad movies. Today, he's a traditionally and self-published novelist of rather silly, yet enjoyable fiction for all ages, a comic book writer, screenwriter... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Dana Goldstein

Dana Goldstein

I am an author and podcaster with three published memoirs, The Girl in the Gold Bikini, a collection of stories about my relationship with food, Murder on my Mind, a memoir of menopause, and Spent, a collection of stories about my experience in retail management. My debut middle grade... Read More →
JG

Jenna Greene

Jenna Greene is a YA and children's author. She is known for the CBC Canada recommended middle-grade book "An Owl Without A Name" and her award-winning YA series "The Reborn Marks" series. She also has a list of picture books, YA novels, short stories, and poetry. An English teacher... Read More →
avatar for Jessica Renwick

Jessica Renwick

Middle-grade author. The first book in my self-published series, The Book of Chaos, has sold over 13,000 copies. I recently signed with Great Plains Press for my next book, Ghosts of Gastown, which will be coming out with them in fall 2024.
Saturday August 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:50pm MDT
Kananaskis 2

12:00pm MDT

Following the Thread
Saturday August 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:50pm MDT
How do you turn an idea into a story, and then into a novel? What details do you need to flesh out that will take that glimmer of a concept into as detailed an outline as you'd like to work with?
Speakers
avatar for Lisa D. Wilde

Lisa D. Wilde

Lisa has been writing part-time for over 45 years. She was a participant in the Clarion Workshop for Science Fiction and Fantasy in 1984, and since then has worked with local writing groups, sharing the Clarion “method” of workshopping. She has two novels – both in the fantasy sword and sorcery genre – in the final stages of getting ready for publishing. She hopes to debut one of them this year at When Words Collide. She has been a past presenter since 2018, and during the Zoom years... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:50pm MDT
Waterton

12:00pm MDT

The Many Faces of Memoir
Saturday August 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:50pm MDT
Did you know there are many different types of memoir? Stop thinking famous person having their stories told by a ghostwriter and start planning your own great life story - either non-fiction or creative fiction, biographical or inspirational. It's time to tell your life story in your own way!
Speakers
avatar for Diane Bator

Diane Bator

After 10 years as a traditionally published author of 15 novels, I'm switching to self-publishing in 2023. To date, I've been a mystery writer, but venturing into romance and fantasy. Been on the board of Crime Writer of Canada as well as member of TWUC & Sisters in Crime for yea... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:50pm MDT
Acadia

12:00pm MDT

Ask a DM
Saturday August 17, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm MDT
Ask a Dungeon Master

Get your various Dungeons and Dragons related questions answered by our top Dungeon Masters. No question too big, too “dumb”, or too small. We will help you get the answers you seek.

Note: This session will be held in the anteroom within the Games Room (Rundle)
Speakers
Saturday August 17, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm MDT
Games Room (Rundle)

12:00pm MDT

Play Dungeons and Dragons
Saturday August 17, 2024 12:00pm - 2:00pm MDT
Play a one-off campaign in two hours. Not only is this a great way to meet other writers and storytellers who share your interests, but it’s fun to work with a group to tell a tale. Both new and seasoned players welcome. We will have pre-made character sheets and extra dice waiting for you.

This game will be 2-hours in length.
There will be two tables with 5 spaces at each table.
Speakers
avatar for Rhonda Parrish

Rhonda Parrish

Rhonda is the editor of many anthologies including, most recently, Earth: Giants, Golems and Gargoyles, Grimm, Grit and Gasoline: An anthology of Dieselpunk and Decopunk Fairy Tales and F is for Fairy. In addition, Rhonda is a writer whose work has been in publications such as Tesseracts... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 12:00pm - 2:00pm MDT
Games Room (Rundle)

1:00pm MDT

Book Launch: Dave Duncan Shadow Paw Press
Saturday August 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Speakers
Saturday August 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Fireside

1:00pm MDT

HOW TO DIAGRAM A MYSTERY PLOT
Saturday August 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Get the instantly applicable 'nuts & bolts' of plot development that show you how to put together mystery fiction with ease. Say goodbye to the frustration of writer's block due to lack of direction. Eliminate the stress of tedious re-writing due to unforeseen plot changes. Juanita Violini's Mystery Bones Method gives you step by step instruction of how to diagram the twists and turns of your plot to avoid these common pitfalls. Let your characters run free and let your mind run wild with ‘what if' before resistance and procrastination kick in. Know where your plot is going and the words will follow.
Speakers
avatar for Juanita Rose Violini

Juanita Rose Violini

Juanita Rose Violini has written & produced live, interactive murder mystery entertainment for over 35 years. Her scripts have been produced in the illustrious Banff Springs Hotel, Chateau Lake Louise, numerous high end hotels and venues in Vancouver. They are currently available... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Acadia

1:00pm MDT

Live Action Slush - Romance
Saturday August 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Bring the first page of your romance manuscript to be anonymously read aloud and receive feedback from our panel of editors. (Please indicate the genre at the top of the page.)
Moderators
avatar for Joy Norstrom

Joy Norstrom

Joy Norstrom (she/her) is a fiction writer and social worker residing in Treaty 7 Territory. She writes for both children (Marjorie Magic, 2023) and adult audiences (Flying the Nest, 2020; Out of Play, 2016). Her stories feature current social issues while exploring themes of identify... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Angela Ackerman

Angela Ackerman

Angela Ackerman is a story coach, international speaker, and co-author of the bestselling book, The Emotion Thesaurus: A Writer's Guide to Character Expression, and its many sequels. Available in nine languages, her guides are sourced by universities, recommended by agents and editors... Read More →
avatar for Shelley Kassian

Shelley Kassian

Bestselling author Shelley Kassian has been writing timeless love stories filled with romance or dark fantasy (romantasy) for more than twenty years, novels that include her recent true love story, A Mountain Leads Home, which is loosely based on her daughter and son-in-law. A history... Read More →
avatar for Trisha Jenn Loehr

Trisha Jenn Loehr

Trisha Jenn Loehr is a romance writer and Author Accelerator-certified book coach who helps busy women who want to write romance novels without guilt or shame prioritize their writing, develop their craft, and find joy in the journey toward their publishing dreams. Connect with her... Read More →
avatar for Katie O’Connor

Katie O’Connor

Katie O'Connor is a sweet contemporary romance author who resides in Calgary, Alberta. She has over 30 published titles including an author career planning workbook. She has been traditionally and independently published. She is a writing mentor as well as a romance acquisitions editor... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Fairview

1:00pm MDT

Ask Us Anything
Saturday August 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
No question is too big or small for this powerhouse panel! Join some of our Guests of Honour and Special Guests for a fun and lively discussion covering your burning questions.
Moderators
avatar for Randy McCharles

Randy McCharles

RANDY MCCHARLES is a full-time author of crime and speculative fiction. He is the recipient of several Aurora Awards (Canada's most prestigious award for speculative fiction), and in 2013 his short story Ghost-B-Gone Incorporated won the House of Anansi 7-day Ghost Story Contest... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Wayne Arthurson

Wayne Arthurson

Wayne Arthurson is a writer and literary agent of Cree and French-Canadian descent, the author of eight novels, five books of non-fiction and countless articles. His novels have won an Alberta Readers’ Choice Award, an Arthur Ellis Award for Crime Writing and Best Trade Fiction... Read More →
avatar for Jack Castle

Jack Castle

Jack Castle has been labeled by the Coeur D’Alene Press as the “Man of Adventures!” He grew up in Florida and while working as a young stuntman for Orlando Theme Parks, he was hand selected by George Lucas to play a Han Solo look-a-like for Disney's Hollywood Studios. It was... Read More →
avatar for Premee Mohamed

Premee Mohamed

Premee Mohamed is a Nebula, World Fantasy, and Aurora award-winning Indo-Caribbean scientist and speculative fiction author based in Edmonton, Alberta. She has also been a finalist for the Hugo, Ignyte, British Fantasy, and Crawford awards. She is an Assistant Editor at the short... Read More →
avatar for Jonathan Whitelaw

Jonathan Whitelaw

Jonathan Whitelaw is an award-winning author, journalist and broadcaster. After working on the frontline of Scottish politics, he moved into journalism, covering everything from sports to music to radioactive waste – and everything in between. He's also a regular reviewer, panelist... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Kananaskis 1

1:00pm MDT

What Makes Alternate History so Appealing?
Saturday August 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Alternative histories date back to the time of Herodotus, and include many thought experiments such as Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell, The Plot Against America, and The Years of Rice and Salt. Panelists discuss the appeal of these works for both readers, and writers.
Moderators
PD

Precious de Leon

Precious is a poet and speculative fiction writer. She writes through the lens of a Filipino Canadian settler in Mohkintsis/Calgary. Following her stint as a business journalist and editor in the Middle East, her creative writing journey started with the 2019 Borderlines Writers Circle... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Sandra Fitzpatrick

Sandra Fitzpatrick

Sandra Fitzpatrick is bilingual in financial and English. She's been helping artists, writers, actors and other Creative People with their taxes, both Canadian and US, since 2006. Many have not known the deductions available as self-employed people and she does several seminars each... Read More →
avatar for Susan Forest

Susan Forest

Editor, Laksa Media Groups
Susan Forest is the author of dual Aurora Award-winners Bursts of Fire (2019) and Flights of Marigold (2020) as well as over 25 internationally-published short stories (Analog Science Fiction and Fact, Asimov's Science Fiction, Beneath Ceaseless Skies, and Orson Scot Card's Intergalactic... Read More →
avatar for D.G. Valdron

D.G. Valdron

Writing for over 20 years. Numerous short story credits. Mermaid's Tale published through Five Rivers Publishing, The Luck contracted with Five Rivers. Twilight of Echelon through At Bay. Multiple books, fiction and nonfiction.
DW

David Worsick

David Worsick is a retired technical writer and active fiction writer who has some short stories and one children's book (Henry's Gift) published. He has a B.Sc. Geology and an MBA (be afraid, very afraid).
Saturday August 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Kananaskis 2

1:00pm MDT

The W Structure
Saturday August 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Calling all pantsers, intuits, and writers who just can’t get behind an outline. Using the theory character as plot, this workshop will breakdown the w-structure to help you uncover tangible ways to bring cohesion and clarity to a work in progress. Learn to write, re-write and revise with intention even if you wrote the entire manuscript with no idea where you were going or what you were doing. A foolproof pantsers guide to plotting.
Speakers
avatar for Ali Bryan

Ali Bryan

Ali Bryan is an award-winning novelist and creative nonfiction writer who explores the what-ifs, the wtfs and the wait-a-minutes of every day. She crafts stories about the downtrodden and disenfranchised, the brokenhearted, and the vulnerable. About lovers and losers, mothers and... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Canmore

1:00pm MDT

Who Said That? Stop Your Inner Critic Before it Stops Your Writing
Saturday August 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Reading a critique of one's work is one of the most vulnerable experiences for a writer. Yet we listen to the harshest nay-sayer all day everyday -our inner critic. In this workshop learn from a self-talk expert how to understand your inner critic so it no longer silences your creative freedom or halts your writing flow.
Speakers
avatar for Cari Frame

Cari Frame

Cari Frame is an Internationally Certified Life Coach, writer and structural editor with over 7 years of experience helping people break through inner limits and achieve their goals. Through mindset and writing exercises, her workshops support new and established writers to get into... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Waterton

1:00pm MDT

Blue Pencil Session with Robert J Sawyer (Preregistration Required)
Saturday August 17, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MDT
Bring the 1st page of your manuscript (max 1000 words, typed, double-spaced) for one-on-one feedback. There are 4 spots available, sign-up is required.

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN:
When Words Collide 2024: Blue Pencil Session with Robert J. Sawyer (signupgenius.com)

Or navigate from the AWCS website: WWC - Blue Pencil Sessions (alexandrawriters.org)
Speakers
avatar for Robert J. Sawyer

Robert J. Sawyer

Robert J. Sawyer — called “the dean of Canadian science fiction” by both the CBC and The Ottawa Citizen — is the only Canadian to have won all three of the world’s top awards for best science-fiction novel of the year: the Hugo, the Nebula, and the John W. Campbell Memorial... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MDT
Cascade

1:00pm MDT

Free Fall Writing Session
Saturday August 17, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MDT
Want to learn about the free fall method of writing? Experiencing writer’s block? Need to generate a new story idea? Want to hang out with other writers? Come to the Free Fall Writing sessions during the festival. This session will be a guided session with Finnian Burnett.
Speakers
avatar for Finnian Burnett

Finnian Burnett

Finnian Burnett holds a doctoral degree in English pedagogy and teaches undergrad creative writing and English. Their writing explores intersections of identity — fatness, mental health, disability, queer joy. Finnian was a finalist for the 2023 CBC Nonfiction Prize. Their... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MDT
Heritage

2:00pm MDT

Author Readings: Brenda Carre & Carolyne Topdjian
Saturday August 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:30pm MDT
Join Brenda Carre and Carolyne Topdjian as they provide a reading from their work.

Brenda Carre will read an action scene from one of the books in her Epic Fantasy duology.
Carolyne Topdjian will be reading an excerpt from her gothic mystery series, THE HITMAN'S DAUGHTER (book 1 of 2).
Speakers
avatar for Carolyne Topdjian

Carolyne Topdjian

Carolyne Topdjian is author of The Black Moth and The Hitman's Daughter (Agora/Polis Books), a gothic thriller which Library Journal calls a “fast-paced, haunting novel of survival” (starred review). She has published short fiction in PRISM International, Dreamers Magazine, and Firewords Quarterly and was shortlisted for the Ghost Prize by Fractured Literary. Her creative endeavours gravitate toward fusions of gothic mystery, noir suspense, and surrealist f... Read More →
avatar for Brenda Carre

Brenda Carre

Brenda Carre is a multi-published author of short fiction. Her work can be found in the Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Pulp Literature Magazine, Fiction River Anthologies, Pulphouse Fiction Magazine, Wordfire Press and many other publications. She is currently at work on... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:30pm MDT
Atrium

2:00pm MDT

Live Editing
Saturday August 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
The premise is simple. Participants bring work and an editor gives their immediate response to a first reading. The number of pieces read depends on the number of people who submit pages for reading. Audience discussion is encouraged as part of the experience as we discuss the material.
Speakers
avatar for Alex McGilvery

Alex McGilvery

Alex has been a freelance content editor for years, helping client s produce best selling books and others to sign contract with publishers. I'm the author of 35 or so published books in every genre but romance. I'm a freelance content editor with more than a hundred book edited over... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Fairview

2:00pm MDT

Pun-ny for Your Thoughts: The Art of Word Play
Saturday August 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
In this un-convention-al workshop, we'll have you write on track for pun production. Using some class-y wit and old school strategies, your students will go from smart bored to cleverly engaged. Whether you love puns or hate them, by the end of this session you'll find that they've groan on you. In this workshop, you will flex your creative muscles through a series of activities, hear some eye-roll-worthy examples, and get some tangible takeaways on how to teach these techniques to your students. Breaking the process of punnery down into manageable strategies like word lists, isolating double entendres, and incorporating them into a concise and convincing narrative, you will have the audience loving - or gratifyingly hating - the wonderful wordplay you’ve crafted. This workshop is offered in English but is applicable to French and international languages.
Speakers
avatar for Miranda Krogstad

Miranda Krogstad

Presenter / Content creator, YYSpeak
Miranda Krogstad is a TEDx speaker and bestselling author of the book Glass Half Full of Poetry.  A spoken word poet, eternal optimist, and workshop facilitator, Krogstad has connected with thousands of writers in dozens of cities across Western Canada.  A member of the 2016 national... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Canmore

2:00pm MDT

Sweet to Saucy: Sex Scenes Readers Will Fall For
Saturday August 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
For many writers, nothing inspires terror quite like the dreaded Love Scene. And no wonder! It requires courage, command of language, subtext, and depth of character development that tests the writing chops of even the masters. It's okay to be scared, but you're not alone. Let's get vulnerable together and explore the fun, funny, and swoon-worthy potential of our literary juicy bits.
Speakers
avatar for Sarah L. Pratt

Sarah L. Pratt

Sarah L. Pratt is an editor, publisher, teacher, bookseller, and queer fictioneer living on Treaty 7 land in the foothills of Alberta. She is an AMPA finalist and the author of Suicide Stitch: Eleven Tales (EMP Publishing), and the dystopian thriller Infractus (Coffin Hop Press... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Waterton

2:00pm MDT

Grant Writing 101: Calgary Arts Development, Alberta Foundation for the Arts, and Canada Council Grants
Saturday August 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Writing a convincing proposal is an artform in itself. What are the qualities adjudicators are looking for, and what is the process for applying? Come to this one-session mini-workshop with your questions and ideas.
Speakers
avatar for Susan Forest

Susan Forest

Editor, Laksa Media Groups
Susan Forest is the author of dual Aurora Award-winners Bursts of Fire (2019) and Flights of Marigold (2020) as well as over 25 internationally-published short stories (Analog Science Fiction and Fact, Asimov's Science Fiction, Beneath Ceaseless Skies, and Orson Scot Card's Intergalactic... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Fireside

2:00pm MDT

Navigating Cultural Appropriation: Ethical Considerations for Writers
Saturday August 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
In the diverse landscape of literature, the issue of cultural appropriation remains a highly debated and nuanced topic. Through a series of insightful discussions and thought-provoking dialogue, panelists will delve into various aspects of cultural appropriation, including its definitions, manifestations, and impacts on marginalized communities. They will examine how writers can responsibly engage with cultures outside their own, exploring the fine line between appreciation and appropriation. Panelists will share personal experiences, perspectives, and practical strategies for writers seeking to navigate these sensitive waters while respecting the cultural integrity and voices of the communities they represent.
Moderators
avatar for Allissa Blondin

Allissa Blondin

CEO, The Feathered Pen
I am a happily married mom of two, and a connector who loves to help people stand in their light so they can write the book they are meant to write!
Speakers
avatar for Lareina Abbott

Lareina Abbott

Lareina Abbott pens Métis themed speculative fiction, essays and memoir. Her stories have a tie to the spiritual or natural world, and to ancestry. She received the Writers Guild of Alberta 2023 Howard O’Hagan award for her short story “Ma Soeur Marie” published in the Prairie... Read More →
avatar for Calvin Jim

Calvin Jim

I am a writer of Asian-speculative fiction and have been writing for over 15 years. I have been published in numerous anthologies including Prairie Gothic and Where the Stars Rise. I have been nominated for 4 Aurora Awards including 3 for Best Short Fiction. I have previously spoken... Read More →
avatar for Jade Mah-Vierling

Jade Mah-Vierling

Jade Mah-Vierling holds a B.A. and M.A. in English Literature. As an individual of Chinese, German, and Ukrainian descent, she is fascinated with the impact of racialization on personal identity. In her thesis, she explored mixed race identity formation through modes of life writing... Read More →
avatar for Premee Mohamed

Premee Mohamed

Premee Mohamed is a Nebula, World Fantasy, and Aurora award-winning Indo-Caribbean scientist and speculative fiction author based in Edmonton, Alberta. She has also been a finalist for the Hugo, Ignyte, British Fantasy, and Crawford awards. She is an Assistant Editor at the short... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Kananaskis 1

2:00pm MDT

Unleashing the Shadows
Saturday August 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
From body horror to the zombie apocalypse, what common elements do the various types of horror stories share?

Discussing the different sub-genres that make up horror, from cosmic to gothic to literary to serial killer to monsters to erotic. Dig into all the types of terrifying stories and explore the common elements they share, from body horror to the zombie apocalypse.
Moderators
avatar for D.G. Valdron

D.G. Valdron

Writing for over 20 years. Numerous short story credits. Mermaid's Tale published through Five Rivers Publishing, The Luck contracted with Five Rivers. Twilight of Echelon through At Bay. Multiple books, fiction and nonfiction.
Speakers
avatar for Julie Hiner

Julie Hiner

Killers and Demons
Julie Hiner spent her childhood lost in the pages of books. The only thing that took precedence was her Walkman. Julie remains a hardcore 80s rocker at heart. Julie worked as a computer scientist, specializing in network simulation. On a break, she published an inspirational book... Read More →
avatar for Shane Kroetsch

Shane Kroetsch

Pencil on Paper
I write dark stories about monsters, both real and imagined.
avatar for Nikki Vogel

Nikki Vogel

Nikki Vogel has had poetry published in Room Magazine, filling Station, and The Istanbul Review. Her short stories have appeared in Luna Station Quarterly, Infective Ink, Empty Sink Publications, and in One Throne Magazine. She has had a few stories anthologized, including in You... Read More →
DW

David Worsick

David Worsick is a retired technical writer and active fiction writer who has some short stories and one children's book (Henry's Gift) published. He has a B.Sc. Geology and an MBA (be afraid, very afraid).
Saturday August 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Kananaskis 2

2:00pm MDT

Cupcake Creativity
Saturday August 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Feeling overwhelmed by a busy conference? Join this kind, supportive session and have fun playing creative writing games in multiple formats. Suitable for fledgling writers to published authors who would like to engage in imaginative fun and dessert. Cupcakes provided, including gluten-free, vegan, and Keto.
Speakers
avatar for Dorothy Bentley

Dorothy Bentley

Dorothy Bentley is published in articles, interviews, columns, cartoons, blogs, short stories, poetry, novel, picture book, and anthologies. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English, and has taught writing previously in several venues, including Keyano College, Bow Valley College... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Heritage

2:00pm MDT

Narrative Voice: Tapping into the Tone that Sets Your Writing Apart
Saturday August 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Narrative voice is that sometimes slippery element to a good story that can seem hard to nail down, but you know it when you see it. In this workshop, we'll discuss some examples of strong narrative voice in fantasy to identify what elements can be defined and voice what we can learn from them as writers. We'll then work on developing our own voices through several short writing exercises, sharing our work wherever we feel comfortable.
Speakers
avatar for Fiona McTaggart

Fiona McTaggart

Fiona is a lifelong lover of fantasy, sci-fi and genre fiction of all sorts as both a writer and a reader. She has an honours BA in English and Creative Writing from Concordia University in Montreal and is currently working on her third novel.
Saturday August 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Acadia

2:00pm MDT

Jackbox Games
Saturday August 17, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
Do you have a phone, iPad, or other internet connective device? Great! Then you can play some fantastic, word based, collaborative games with a bunch of random friends you’ve only just met.
Saturday August 17, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
Games Room (Rundle)

2:00pm MDT

Pitch Session with Ed Willett (Preregistration required)
Saturday August 17, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
Pitch your manuscript and receive instant feedback. There are only 6 spots available, sign-up required!

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN:
When Words Collide 2024: Pitch Session with Edward Willett (signupgenius.com)

Or visit the AWCS website:
WWC - Pitch Sessions (alexandrawriters.org)
Speakers
avatar for Ed Willett

Ed Willett

Edward Willett is the award-winning author of more than sixty books of science fiction, fantasy, and non-fiction for readers of all ages. His most recent science fiction novel, The Tangled Stars, was his twelfth for New York's DAW Books. Ed is also an Aurora Award-winning podcaster... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
Cascade

2:00pm MDT

A Masterclass in Improv: embracing failure as a conduit to creativity with the Kinkonauts
Saturday August 17, 2024 2:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Find your creativity for Writing and Life!

Join us for a Masterclass that uses the power of Improv to find your creativity and build a lasting way to keep the creativity going! Using non-performative experiential exercises, you will learn to take risks, embrace failure and be more comfortable with the unknown.

Improv workshops are being used by Fortune 500 companies, corporations, non-profits, medical staff and many others to build soft skills, help with mental well-being, brainstorming and creativity. Play is proven to be the best way to learn and failure is the only way to learn. Come play and fail in a fun and safe environment!
Speakers
avatar for Jason Lewis

Jason Lewis

Jason Lewis is a consultant, coach and facilitator with Shift Facilitation who specialises in learning, culture, leadership development, innovation and Change Management.As an expert facilitator he helps leadership teams connect with each other and have uncompromising conversations... Read More →
avatar for Jessica Belbin

Jessica Belbin

Jessica has 16 years of experience as a long form improviser and 7 years of experience as a facilitator. Combining these two skills, Jessica is a compassionate, funny and attentive facilitator of improv. She uses improvisation to help build and grow human skills so that we can communicate... Read More →
avatar for The Kinkonauts

The Kinkonauts

CREATING EXTRAORDINARY UNSCRIPTED THEATRE SINCE 2006.​The Kinkonauts have been delighting audiences, developing improvisers, and building community for more than 15 years. Every show is a unique, never to be repeated adventure. Enjoy the tightrope thrill of performers living in... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 2:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Bonavista Ballroom

3:00pm MDT

Mapping Your Meet Cute 1: Getting to Know Your Love Interests
Saturday August 17, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
The more layered your love interests in your romance are and the deeper their misbelief about themselves or love goes, the more fun readers will have as they join those characters on their journeys toward true love. In this seminar, you will practice some tips and writing exercises help you sketch out who your characters are, what they believe about themselves and love, how they change over the course of the novel, and how all of this is tied to your novel's theme or point. This knowledge will make it a lot easier to write your story-because you'll actually know who they are, what their sticking points are, and why they are soulmates.
Speakers
avatar for Trisha Jenn Loehr

Trisha Jenn Loehr

Trisha Jenn Loehr is a romance writer and Author Accelerator-certified book coach who helps busy women who want to write romance novels without guilt or shame prioritize their writing, develop their craft, and find joy in the journey toward their publishing dreams. Connect with her... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Waterton

3:00pm MDT

Going Indie (and what that means, anyway)
Saturday August 17, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Publishing a book is more accessible than ever, and there are many different paths you can take. Going indie and self-publishing can be intimidating, but with a little more information it doesn't need to be.
Moderators
avatar for Andrew Snook

Andrew Snook

Andrew Snook is a professional writer and editor. His non-fiction and fiction writing have earned him a combined 21 national and international writing awards. Snook is also the founder of Canadian Independent Publishers, which is dedicated to showcasing indie writers, bookstores and... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for L. A. Cunningham

L. A. Cunningham

L. A. Cunningham is an author and comic book creator with a dark and twisty sense of humour that pairs nicely with her dark and twisty writing. She and her spouse have two small human children and one larger canine child, all of whom enjoy eating food off the floor and watching squirrels... Read More →
avatar for Brenna Bailey-Davies

Brenna Bailey-Davies

Bookmarten Editorial
Brenna Bailey writes queer contemporary romance and owns an editing business called Bookmarten Editorial. If her nose isn't buried in a book, you can probably find her out in the woods somewhere admiring plants or attempting to identify birds. She is a starry-eyed traveler and a home... Read More →
avatar for Jonathan Sean Lyster

Jonathan Sean Lyster

independent author, Heuronic Books
Jonathan Sean Lyster likes to wrap his head around strange nows and possible futures. His novels include the science fiction thriller "Oblivion's Wake" and the Armageddon Boys urban fantasy comedy series. His short stories have appeared in "On Spec," "Analog," and "Storyteller". A... Read More →
avatar for Rebekah Raymond

Rebekah Raymond

By day she is simply Rebecca Piazza — Medical Claims Adjudicator and artist. By night, she is Rebekah Raymond, Alberta writer of thriller/horror, romance, science fiction and fantasy. Rebekah lives in Airdrie, AB Canada. She is wife to her once High School sweetheart and mother... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Fairview

3:00pm MDT

Positive Science Fiction and Fantasy
Saturday August 17, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
In 2017, author Alexandra Rowland coined the term Hopepunk to describe works that defy Grimdark: novels that explore characters fighting for positive change, radical kindness and communal response to problems. Noblebright literature focusses on the narrative of the hero who fights the winnable fight with a happy ending, whereas Hopepunk celebrates a collective response. Panelists discuss what elements of our changing society might have given rise to dystopias and Grimdark fiction, and what has changed to give rise to new, positive Science Fiction and Fantasy.
Moderators Speakers
avatar for Karl Buchner

Karl Buchner

Mr. Buchner is a published author and is the facilitator of two critiquing groups and a twice annual writing retreat.  His career includes teaching and a wide range of technical and management positions throughout North America and Eastern Europe.
avatar for Chris Carolan

Chris Carolan

Chris Patrick Carolan is an author, editor, and hovercraft enthusiast, originally from Glasgow but now based in Calgary, Alberta. He writes steampunk, horror, fantasy, and science fiction, though he has also been known to turn to crime to make ends meet. Crime fiction, that is. His... Read More →
avatar for Ron S. Friedman

Ron S. Friedman

RON S. FRIEDMAN is an award-winning science fiction author from Calgary. His novel, TYPHOON TIME, is an Amazon.ca #1 Best Seller in Time-Travel, his collection, ESCAPE VELOCITY, is Calgary Herald #1 Best Seller, and his story, GAME NOT OVER, is a Best Short Fiction finalist in the... Read More →
KN

K.J. Noakes

K. J. Noakes is a Science Fantasy author from, of all places, Calgary, Alberta, Canada. With a BA in Philosophy, he studies Social Ecology, Phenomenology, Existentialism, Critical Theory, etc.. He lives with his cat Purray “Murray” Bookchin (pictured), and tends a garden that... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Kananaskis 1

3:00pm MDT

Slow Down: The Value of Apprenticeship When Writing Fiction
Saturday August 17, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
In the world of social-media likes and six-second TikTok clips, we want things the way we want them, and we want them now. Bringing such a sensibility to a writing career is a path to disappointment. Taking a slower, longer approach can help minimize the heartache of rejection. How do you know when your novel's ready to pitch? How do you know you've spent enough time mastering your craft? Hear from writers who've learned the importance of learning.
Moderators
avatar for Andrew Buckley

Andrew Buckley

Author/Presenter
Andrew Buckley is a film school-educated writer, which means he's spent most of his life with no money and a high opinion about bad movies. Today, he's a traditionally and self-published novelist of rather silly, yet enjoyable fiction for all ages, a comic book writer, screenwriter... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Robin van Eck

Robin van Eck

Robin writes fiction - literary, contemporary, horror, weird and offbeat - and creative nonfiction. Most recently her work has appeared in WonderShift - 40th Anniversary Anthology of the Alexandra Writers Centre, Forbidden Fruit from The Seventh Terrace and Very Much Alive, stories... Read More →
avatar for Ali Bryan

Ali Bryan

Ali Bryan is an award-winning novelist and creative nonfiction writer who explores the what-ifs, the wtfs and the wait-a-minutes of every day. She crafts stories about the downtrodden and disenfranchised, the brokenhearted, and the vulnerable. About lovers and losers, mothers and... Read More →
avatar for Steven Owad

Steven Owad

Steven lives in Calgary and works as an editor. His novels have been praised in publications such as Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine and Mystery Scene, and his stage plays have been produced in theaters throughout North America. As a journalist, Steven has written hundreds of feature... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Kananaskis 2

3:00pm MDT

Arm Yourselves! Six Weapons for Writing Mystery
Saturday August 17, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
“Knowledge is a weapon. I intend to be formidably armed” Author Terry Goodkind What are the six things you need to know to write a good mystery novel? Crime Writers of Canada gave this guy the Best Crime Novel Award so maybe he has some ideas.
Speakers
avatar for Anthony Bidulka

Anthony Bidulka

Anthony Bidulka has dedicated his career to writing traditional genre novels in an untraditional way, developing a body of work that often features his Saskatchewan roots and underrepresented, diverse main characters. He tells serious stories in accessible, entertaining, often humorous... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Fireside

3:00pm MDT

Avoid Burnout and Thrive
Saturday August 17, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Discuss why our sense of value needs to come from within to avoid burnout. Learn strategies to thrive, prioritize work-life balance, and strengthen healthy boundaries. Please bring a notebook and pen or a laptop.
Speakers
avatar for Julianne Harvey

Julianne Harvey

Author. Educator. Nurturer., Ruby Finch Books
Julianne Harvey is an author, educator, and nurturer in South Surrey, BC. She’s the author of six books and holds an MFA and a BA in Creative Writing, along with a certificate in Counselling Skills. Her speculative climate novel, Post Civ, is available fall 2024. Please see julianneharvey.com and rubyfinchbooks.com for... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Acadia

3:00pm MDT

Blue Pencil Session with Jodi McIsaac (Preregistration required)
Saturday August 17, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT
Bring the 1st page of your manuscript (max 1000 words, typed, double-spaced) for one-on-one feedback. There are 4 spots available, sign-up is required.

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN:
When Words Collide 2024: Blue Pencil Session with Jodi McIsaac (signupgenius.com)

Or navigate from the AWCS website: WWC - Blue Pencil Sessions (alexandrawriters.org)
Speakers
avatar for Jodi McIsaac

Jodi McIsaac

​Jodi McIsaac is the author of six novels and several short stories and essays. She's also the owner of Inkwood Communications, a boutique copywriting agency serving the non-profit sector. Born and raised on the East Coast, Jodi made her way to Calgary via Belfast, Winnipeg, Toronto... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT
Cascade

3:00pm MDT

Finding Your Memoir
Saturday August 17, 2024 3:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Committing to writing a memoir can be a daunting thought. But what if the process could be narrowed down to a few concrete approaches? In this session, we'll look at three key aspects of developing a book-length memoir: identifying your central question--What is driving you to write this, and what are you trying to figure out by doing so?; locating key turning points that move the story along; and considering a possible takeaway for your reader--which will enable you to clarify the theme or through-line that runs through your story. In addition to a brief craft talk, you will complete two short writing exercises designed to help you move forward with your memoir projects.
Speakers
avatar for Judah Leblang

Judah Leblang

Judah Leblang is a Boston-based writer, teacher, and storyteller. He is the author of the essay collection, Finding My Place (Lake Effect Press, 2012) and the memoir Echoes of Jerry (Red Giant Books, 2019). He has performed his one-man show, "It's Now or Never" at Calgary Fringe--(Best... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 3:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Canmore

3:00pm MDT

Play Dungeons and Dragons
Saturday August 17, 2024 3:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Play a one-off campaign in two hours. Not only is this a great way to meet other writers and storytellers who share your interests, but it’s fun to work with a group to tell a tale. Both new and seasoned players welcome. We will have pre-made character sheets and extra dice waiting for you.

This game will be 2-hours in length.
There will be two tables with 5 spaces at each table.
Speakers
Saturday August 17, 2024 3:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Games Room (Rundle)

3:00pm MDT

Sit & Write
Saturday August 17, 2024 3:00pm - 6:00pm MDT
Join our Sit & Write sessions in our dedicated writing room, where you'll find a quiet, inspiring environment to focus on your craft, surrounded by fellow writers. Whether you're polishing a piece or starting something new, this is your space to create and connect.

As space allows. 
Saturday August 17, 2024 3:00pm - 6:00pm MDT
Heritage

4:00pm MDT

How to Amplify a Character's Emotional Responses (and Why You Should)
Saturday August 17, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Characters will face plenty of challenges and obstacles in the story, and a big influencer on their ability to come out ahead is how well they control their emotions. Join Angela as she shows you how to embrace your inner evil and unleash emotion amplifiers that increase the character's volatility in the moment so they make plenty of missteps and mistakes.
Speakers
avatar for Angela Ackerman

Angela Ackerman

Angela Ackerman is a story coach, international speaker, and co-author of the bestselling book, The Emotion Thesaurus: A Writer's Guide to Character Expression, and its many sequels. Available in nine languages, her guides are sourced by universities, recommended by agents and editors... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Acadia

4:00pm MDT

Let's Get Real
Saturday August 17, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Have you ever noticed, in movies and TV, that a person will get whacked in the head, be unconscious and have no long lasting effects. How close to reality is that? How about the physical make up of a psychopath's brain? Why do their differences have the effect they have? How does chronic childhood trauma alter the brain's natural development? Do you know about Synesthesia? Could you write a character that can hear color? Taste sounds? Don't write like everyone else. Up your game. I hope we can inspire you to give your readers something different than what they're used to reading.

Presenters: Swati Chavda (retired neurosurgeon, writer, artist) with Valerie L. King (writer, artist, performer)
Speakers
avatar for Swati Chavda

Swati Chavda

Swati Chavda is an author, editor, artist, and former neurosurgeon.She has published a self-help book, Ignite: Beat Burnout & Rekindle Your Inner Fire, and two illustrated poetry collections, Love at the Speed of Light and Footprints at the Edge of Time. Her poetry and cover art have... Read More →
avatar for Valerie L. King

Valerie L. King

Valerie L. King is a member if the Imaginative Fiction Writers Association (IFWA) and Calgary Crime Writers. She has some published short stories and is currently writing an urban fantasy series as well as several non-fiction books. Her passions are music, art, and volunteering with... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Fireside

4:00pm MDT

Live Action Slush - Mystery/Crime
Saturday August 17, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Bring the first page of your mystery or crime manuscript to be anonymously read aloud and receive feedback from our panel of editors. (Please indicate the genre at the top of the page.)
Moderators
avatar for Julie Hiner

Julie Hiner

Killers and Demons
Julie Hiner spent her childhood lost in the pages of books. The only thing that took precedence was her Walkman. Julie remains a hardcore 80s rocker at heart. Julie worked as a computer scientist, specializing in network simulation. On a break, she published an inspirational book... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Wayne Arthurson

Wayne Arthurson

Wayne Arthurson is a writer and literary agent of Cree and French-Canadian descent, the author of eight novels, five books of non-fiction and countless articles. His novels have won an Alberta Readers’ Choice Award, an Arthur Ellis Award for Crime Writing and Best Trade Fiction... Read More →
avatar for Anthony Bidulka

Anthony Bidulka

Anthony Bidulka has dedicated his career to writing traditional genre novels in an untraditional way, developing a body of work that often features his Saskatchewan roots and underrepresented, diverse main characters. He tells serious stories in accessible, entertaining, often humorous... Read More →
avatar for Carolyne Topdjian

Carolyne Topdjian

Carolyne Topdjian is author of The Black Moth and The Hitman's Daughter (Agora/Polis Books), a gothic thriller which Library Journal calls a “fast-paced, haunting novel of survival” (starred review). She has published short fiction in PRISM International, Dreamers Magazine, and Firewords Quarterly and was shortlisted for the Ghost Prize by Fractured Literary. Her creative endeavours gravitate toward fusions of gothic mystery, noir suspense, and surrealist f... Read More →
avatar for Jonathan Whitelaw

Jonathan Whitelaw

Jonathan Whitelaw is an award-winning author, journalist and broadcaster. After working on the frontline of Scottish politics, he moved into journalism, covering everything from sports to music to radioactive waste – and everything in between. He's also a regular reviewer, panelist... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Fairview

4:00pm MDT

The Secret Language of Editors
Saturday August 17, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
How do you turn that "no" from a publisher into a "yes"? 4 editors talk about how to decipher rejection letters, as well as the common problems and unique submissions they see in their inboxes.
Moderators
avatar for Susan Forest

Susan Forest

Editor, Laksa Media Groups
Susan Forest is the author of dual Aurora Award-winners Bursts of Fire (2019) and Flights of Marigold (2020) as well as over 25 internationally-published short stories (Analog Science Fiction and Fact, Asimov's Science Fiction, Beneath Ceaseless Skies, and Orson Scot Card's Intergalactic... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Shawn L. Bird

Shawn L. Bird

BA MEd. 30+ years teaching writing/reading. 30+ publications in poetry, fiction and non-fiction. Publisher at Lintusen Press, a collaborative micropress.
avatar for Brian Hades

Brian Hades

President, EDGE Science Fiction and Fantasy Publishing
As the head of EDGE Science Fiction and Fantasy Publishing, Brian Hades has been leading efforts to publish and promote high-quality, thought-provoking works in these genres.Through EDGE, he has published an international roster of authors tackling a wide variety of speculative fiction... Read More →
avatar for Alison McBain

Alison McBain

Alison McBain’s novels are the recipients of over 13 awards, including the Foreword INDIES. When not writing for herself, she’s a ghostwriter who has penned over two dozen books for clients, as well as an award-winning editor who has worked with both celebrity and NY Times-bestselling... Read More →
avatar for Robert Runte, PhD

Robert Runte, PhD

Senior Editor, EssentialEdits.ca
Robert Runté is Senior Editor at EssentialEdits.ca and SFeditor.ca. He has been the developmental editor on over 50 books, 35 of which were traditionally published, primarily SF&F. He has published 100+ short fiction pieces in 50+ venues, including Tesseracts, Pulp Literature, On... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Kananaskis 2

4:00pm MDT

We are the heroes, not the sidekicks: Building worlds and stories in SFF that centre disabled protagonists
Saturday August 17, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Many times when a disabled character is introduced into science fiction and fantasy, they are a token character, often crafted by authors who do not have lived experience of disability. As a result, readers can't really find representation that reflects their lives. This panel would discuss how one can craft their world-building and storytelling with their disabled, Deaf, Blind, and/or neurodivergent heroes taking centre stage.
Moderators
avatar for Fiona McTaggart

Fiona McTaggart

Fiona is a lifelong lover of fantasy, sci-fi and genre fiction of all sorts as both a writer and a reader. She has an honours BA in English and Creative Writing from Concordia University in Montreal and is currently working on her third novel.
Speakers
avatar for Rick Overwater

Rick Overwater

Rick Overwater is a longtime Calgary-based fiction author, songwriter and comic creator.His graphic novel, Futility: Orange Planet Horror was nominated for a 2019 Aurora Award in the Canadian Science Fiction and Fantasy Association’s Best Graphic Novel category. As well, his short... Read More →
avatar for Cait Gordon

Cait Gordon

Cait Gordon is an autistic, disabled, and queer Canadian writer of speculative fiction that celebrates diversity. She is the author of Life in the 'Cosm, The Stealth Lovers, and Season One: Iris and the Crew Tear Through Space! Her short stories appear in Alice Unbound: Beyond Wonderland... Read More →
avatar for Arlene F. Marks

Arlene F. Marks

Arlene F. Marks has been writing since the age of 6, and she has no plans to stop. A veteran teacher of the craft, she has authored two literacy programs for the classroom. Her short stories have appeared online and in print, notably in an anthology of reimagined fairy tales, Grimmer... Read More →
avatar for Madona Skaff

Madona Skaff

Madona Skaff is the author of the Naya Investigates series, about a young woman disabled by multiple sclerosis, who turns sleuth to solve crimes. In book one, Journey of a Thousand Steps, Naya searches for a missing friend. In book 2, Death by Association, she's tracking a serial... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Kananaskis 1

4:00pm MDT

Pitch Sessions with Sam Hiyate (Preregistration required)
Saturday August 17, 2024 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Pitch your manuscript and receive instant feedback. There are only 6 spots available, sign-up required!

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN:
When Words Collide 2024: Pitch Session with Sam Hiyate (signupgenius.com)

Or visit the AWCS website:
WWC - Pitch Sessions (alexandrawriters.org)
Speakers
avatar for Sam Hiyate

Sam Hiyate

Sam Hiyate is keen to discover new voices and help writers prepare their works for market, and to help them build lasting careers. In the past two decades with THE RIGHTS FACTORY his hundreds of book deals have resulted in several bestsellers such as MORE, the memoir by Molly Roden... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Cascade

4:00pm MDT

The 5 Keys of Showing
Saturday August 17, 2024 4:00pm - 5:20pm MDT
Emerging writers have challenges with the concept of Showing, not Telling. When is it appropriate to tell, and when should you show? The five keys of showing promote the sensory work in any genre, and gives the writer a powerful set of tools to create and edit their work. Character development, Point of View, Dialogue, Setting, and Tone are these key elements of success
Speakers
avatar for Vivian Hansen

Vivian Hansen

I am a teacher of creative writing, with AWCS and the University of Calgary Creative Writing Certificate program. I have published 5 books of poetry, and several essays in various anthologies. I have taught poetry, memoir, creative nonfiction, fiction and magic realism.
Saturday August 17, 2024 4:00pm - 5:20pm MDT
Waterton

5:00pm MDT

Fireside Evening: Prairie Gothic with Wendy McGrath
Saturday August 17, 2024 5:00pm - 5:50pm MDT
Wendy McGrath’s most recent novels—Santa Rosa, North East, and Broke City, as well as many of her poems, are examples of Prairie Gothic literature. McGrath believes Prairie Gothic deserves recognition as a unique sub-genre in this country’s literary canon. Join her for a reading from her work and a discussion of gothic literature—in the context of the Canadian prairies.
Speakers
avatar for Wendy McGrath

Wendy McGrath

Wendy McGrath is a Métis poet, writer, and visual artist living and working in amiskwacîwâskahikan (Edmonton) on Treaty 6 Territory.Winner of the inaugural Prairie Grindstone Prize 2023-2024, McGrath’s writing practice embraces multiple genres—fiction, poetry, spoken word... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 5:00pm - 5:50pm MDT
Fireside

5:00pm MDT

Scrivener for Beginners
Saturday August 17, 2024 5:00pm - 5:50pm MDT
You've heard of Scrivener before, and you like the sound of it, but haven't dived in yet. Or maybe the number of features feels intimidating. Well, worry not! I'll walk you through the basics and help you get past that initial learning curve.
Speakers
avatar for Amanda Witow

Amanda Witow

Amanda Witow is the author of the historical fantasy series, Legend's Legacy. An upper elementary teacher with a BA in psychology and classical studies, she is, indisputably, a nerd. She regularly participates in NaNoWriMo (and has even won several times), shares excerpts and short... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 5:00pm - 5:50pm MDT
Canmore

5:00pm MDT

Do I Need a Mentor?
Saturday August 17, 2024 5:00pm - 5:50pm MDT
This panel will explore the potential benefits of mentorship, what to expect from it (and what not to), and how to decide if you're ready to take this exciting step on your writing journey. Information about formal mentorship opportunities, such as those offered through the Writer's Guild of Alberta, the Humber school for Writers, and of course, through AWCS, will be shared, so you can evaluate what program is the best fit for your you.
Moderators
avatar for Katie O’Connor

Katie O’Connor

Katie O'Connor is a sweet contemporary romance author who resides in Calgary, Alberta. She has over 30 published titles including an author career planning workbook. She has been traditionally and independently published. She is a writing mentor as well as a romance acquisitions editor... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Ali Bryan

Ali Bryan

Ali Bryan is an award-winning novelist and creative nonfiction writer who explores the what-ifs, the wtfs and the wait-a-minutes of every day. She crafts stories about the downtrodden and disenfranchised, the brokenhearted, and the vulnerable. About lovers and losers, mothers and... Read More →
avatar for Dianne Koebel-Pede

Dianne Koebel-Pede

Dianne is a former K-9 educator, school counsellor, and Inclusive Education Coordinator. She loves learning and sharing her experiences to help others. In 2023, she was honoured to receive the Writers' Guild of Alberta Mary Bell Scholarship. Dianne participated in the WGA 2024 Mentorship... Read More →
avatar for Marie Powell

Marie Powell

Marie Powell’s castle-hopping adventures across North Wales resulted in her medieval fantasy series Last of the Gifted: Spirit Sight and Water Sight, set in 13th C Wales. Marie is also the author of 40+ children’s books with such publishers as Scholastic Education and Amicus... Read More →
avatar for Sarah L. Pratt

Sarah L. Pratt

Sarah L. Pratt is an editor, publisher, teacher, bookseller, and queer fictioneer living on Treaty 7 land in the foothills of Alberta. She is an AMPA finalist and the author of Suicide Stitch: Eleven Tales (EMP Publishing), and the dystopian thriller Infractus (Coffin Hop Press... Read More →
avatar for Lynda Williams

Lynda Williams

Lynda Williams (she/her) is a graduate of the Humber School for Writers Creative Writing program, where she studied under the mentorship of Danila Botha. The resulting collection of stories is forthcoming from Guernica Editions in 2025. Her work has appeared in Grain, the Humber Literary... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 5:00pm - 5:50pm MDT
Kananaskis 1

5:00pm MDT

You're Write About It
Saturday August 17, 2024 5:00pm - 5:50pm MDT
A comedic panel show where host Kevin Weir quizzes local authors about their knowledge of niche facts from popular fiction.
Moderators
avatar for Kevin Weir

Kevin Weir

I began my work in film before becoming an author of page, stage, and screen. A fan of fantastical worlds, I found a way to channel my chaotic energies into wild yarns, taking readers on unforgettable journeys. My debut novel, Endless Hunger, was praised as a "riveting, genre-blending... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Anthony Bidulka

Anthony Bidulka

Anthony Bidulka has dedicated his career to writing traditional genre novels in an untraditional way, developing a body of work that often features his Saskatchewan roots and underrepresented, diverse main characters. He tells serious stories in accessible, entertaining, often humorous... Read More →
avatar for Rob Bose

Rob Bose

Robert Bose grew up on a farm in southern Alberta spending every free moment reading whatever fiction he could get his hands on. He's the editor of a variety of books and anthologies for Coffin Hop Press and The Seventh Terrace, the author of myriad short stories including the fiendish... Read More →
avatar for Jonathan Sean Lyster

Jonathan Sean Lyster

independent author, Heuronic Books
Jonathan Sean Lyster likes to wrap his head around strange nows and possible futures. His novels include the science fiction thriller "Oblivion's Wake" and the Armageddon Boys urban fantasy comedy series. His short stories have appeared in "On Spec," "Analog," and "Storyteller". A... Read More →
avatar for Erin Weir

Erin Weir

Erin Weir, BFA BEd MEd, is a Calgary-based adult educator, currently the Learning and Education Resource Specialist at University of Calgary post-graduate medical education. She has a special interest in individualized learning strategies and how they intersect with resident learning... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 5:00pm - 5:50pm MDT
Kananaskis 2

5:00pm MDT

Conflicts in Fiction
Saturday August 17, 2024 5:00pm - 5:50pm MDT
How to up the tension in your writing by creating engaging conflicts that drive your story forward. Eliminate the BS factor and the pitfalls of a simplistic moustache-twirling bad guy.
Speakers
avatar for Ron S. Friedman

Ron S. Friedman

RON S. FRIEDMAN is an award-winning science fiction author from Calgary. His novel, TYPHOON TIME, is an Amazon.ca #1 Best Seller in Time-Travel, his collection, ESCAPE VELOCITY, is Calgary Herald #1 Best Seller, and his story, GAME NOT OVER, is a Best Short Fiction finalist in the... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 5:00pm - 5:50pm MDT
Acadia

5:00pm MDT

Channel A – a pitching game
Saturday August 17, 2024 5:00pm - 6:00pm MDT
This card game is a blast! Pick some cards, make a title of an anime or cartoon, and pitch the story (right on the spot)! The audience will vote on if your project makes the cut and will be part of Channel A. You can be part of the audience, on stage, or both!
Saturday August 17, 2024 5:00pm - 6:00pm MDT
Games Room (Rundle)

5:00pm MDT

Musical Poetic Art
Saturday August 17, 2024 5:00pm - 6:00pm MDT
Blurring the boundaries of poetry, music and art and how they mingle and mix together. A discussion of the ways these forms of media can interact and how mixing mediums impacts the audience.
Moderators Speakers
avatar for Jim Jackson

Jim Jackson

Author, speaker and gentleman Jim Jackson is a Calgary Herald bestselling author, vintage leather jacket enthusiast and dabbler in the dark arts of blues music. Jim’s mission is to show how the stories we all grew up with – the heroes, the monsters, the adventures – are still... Read More →
avatar for Josephine LoRe

Josephine LoRe

a pearl in this diamond worldJosephine LoRe has shared her poetry live on stage, in podcasts and radio programs, and in international zoom rooms. Her words have been put to music, danced, and integrated into visual art. She has two collections, Unity and the Calgary Herald Bestseller... Read More →
avatar for Jennifer Slebioda

Jennifer Slebioda

Emerging photo-poet, Jennifer Slebioda, published for the first time in POLAR BOREALIS #19 – Aug-Sep 2021 in the #19, September 2021 issue, resides in Calgary, Alberta, with her two teenagers and two cats. With decades as an amateur photographer, private poet, journal writer... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 5:00pm - 6:00pm MDT
Fairview

6:00pm MDT

Happy Hour (Ticketed Event)
Saturday August 17, 2024 6:00pm - 7:00pm MDT
Join us for drinks at Happy Hour before the Saturday Night Showcase event. This will be a closed event for Showcase ticket holders only.
Saturday August 17, 2024 6:00pm - 7:00pm MDT
Bonavista Ballroom

6:00pm MDT

Edge Publishing Presents
Saturday August 17, 2024 6:00pm - 8:00pm MDT
Spend some time celebrating with Edge Publishing.
Speakers
avatar for Ella Beaumont

Ella Beaumont

Assistant to the Publisher, EDGE Science Fiction and Fantasy Publishing
Ella Beaumont has been professionally involved in the publishing industry in both traditional and freelancing capacities since 2012. She has experience in editing, book packaging, and sales and marketing roles. She previously served as the acquisition editor for EDGE Science Fiction... Read More →
avatar for Brian Hades

Brian Hades

President, EDGE Science Fiction and Fantasy Publishing
As the head of EDGE Science Fiction and Fantasy Publishing, Brian Hades has been leading efforts to publish and promote high-quality, thought-provoking works in these genres.Through EDGE, he has published an international roster of authors tackling a wide variety of speculative fiction... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 6:00pm - 8:00pm MDT
Fireside

6:00pm MDT

Play Dungeons and Dragons
Saturday August 17, 2024 6:00pm - 8:00pm MDT
Play a one-off campaign in two hours. Not only is this a great way to meet other writers and storytellers who share your interests, but it’s fun to work with a group to tell a tale. Both new and seasoned players welcome. We will have pre-made character sheets and extra dice waiting for you.

This game will be 2-hours in length.
There will be two tables with 5 spaces at each table.
Speakers
Saturday August 17, 2024 6:00pm - 8:00pm MDT
Games Room (Rundle)

7:00pm MDT

Saturday Night Showcase - An Evening at the Improv (Ticketed Event)
Saturday August 17, 2024 7:00pm - 10:00pm MDT
An evening of social interaction, dinner and cocktails, with a side of Improv. Join us for fun, food and laughs with The Kinkonauts.

The Kinkonauts have been delighting audiences, developing improvisers, and building community for more than 15 years. Every show is a unique, never to be repeated adventure. Enjoy the tightrope thrill of performers living in the moment. Spontaneous stories and characters you’ll still be laughing about on the car ride home.

Join us for a Kinkonauts Improv show on Saturday night that will delight, surprise, and entertain you!

THIS SESSION IS SOLD OUT!
Speakers
avatar for Nicole Zylstra

Nicole Zylstra

Nicole has been making things up for more than 20 years in Calgary. Her improv journey started when her 1990s boyfriend Len got a call from his boss at the semi-improvised custom murder mystery company, Shadow Productions, and said, "Someone's down with the flu. Your girlfriend does... Read More →
avatar for The Kinkonauts

The Kinkonauts

CREATING EXTRAORDINARY UNSCRIPTED THEATRE SINCE 2006.​The Kinkonauts have been delighting audiences, developing improvisers, and building community for more than 15 years. Every show is a unique, never to be repeated adventure. Enjoy the tightrope thrill of performers living in... Read More →
avatar for Jessica Belbin

Jessica Belbin

Jessica has 16 years of experience as a long form improviser and 7 years of experience as a facilitator. Combining these two skills, Jessica is a compassionate, funny and attentive facilitator of improv. She uses improvisation to help build and grow human skills so that we can communicate... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 7:00pm - 10:00pm MDT
Bonavista Ballroom

8:00pm MDT

A Conversation Between an Emerging and Bestselling Author
Saturday August 17, 2024 8:00pm - 10:00pm MDT
This is the conversation where an emerging author asks a bestselling author all the nitty gritty questions you didn't ask at the reading. Questions about process and story development and industry and writing for market and where did you get that gorgeous bag. Christine thought Jaima was just a nice lady in her writing group until she ran into her book at Costco. That was nearly two years ago. Now, they are friends and writing buddies. This conversation lifts the veil on the stuff that happens when an emerging author asks everything you wanted to know but were too afraid to ask. Audience participation is likely.
Speakers
avatar for Christine Tsai Taylor

Christine Tsai Taylor

Owner, StoryCraft
Christine Taylor weaves the threads of storytelling, diversity and inclusion theory, and critical theory to into innovative and inspirational new work that she shares in her writing, through workshops, and in a newsletter, Wonderings. She teaches and consults for clients in Europe... Read More →
avatar for Jaima Fixsen

Jaima Fixsen

Jaima Fixsen is one half of the brain behind Audrey Blake, the co-writing team of USA Today and internationally best-selling novels The Surgeon's Daughter and The Girl in His Shadow. A self-published author of five historical fiction novels, Jaima's first crime thriller will be published... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 8:00pm - 10:00pm MDT
Kananaskis 1

8:00pm MDT

OPEN MIC NIGHT
Saturday August 17, 2024 8:00pm - 10:00pm MDT
Join us for an evening of entertainment. Or be a part of it! Open Mic is back. Bring your vocals, songs, your poems, stories, and stand-up routines. Vanessa and Val will put you into a rotation, so that you can keep coming back with more. We ask that you time your performance to be about 5 mins or less each. We also request family friendly language in the performance pieces.
Speakers
avatar for Vanessa Cardui

Vanessa Cardui

Vanessa Cardui is an outlandish and daring musician with an alarming tendency to swing between the whimsical and the tragic. She has written hundreds of songs in various genres, including rock, folk, filk, and choral music, plays nine different instruments, and has a special love... Read More →
avatar for Valerie L. King

Valerie L. King

Valerie L. King is a member if the Imaginative Fiction Writers Association (IFWA) and Calgary Crime Writers. She has some published short stories and is currently writing an urban fantasy series as well as several non-fiction books. Her passions are music, art, and volunteering with... Read More →
Saturday August 17, 2024 8:00pm - 10:00pm MDT
Fireside

8:00pm MDT

Magic the Gathering Mixer
Saturday August 17, 2024 8:00pm - 10:00pm MDT
Do you play Magic the Gathering? Bring your cards and find other people to play with in this awesome mixer. Any version will do, there will always be someone ready to challenge you to a fight.
Saturday August 17, 2024 8:00pm - 10:00pm MDT
Games Room (Rundle)

8:00pm MDT

Board Game Mixer
Saturday August 17, 2024 8:00pm - 11:00pm MDT
Come and meet other writers while playing games. Show up at the room and we’ll find you a table and game to play at. It’s a great way to socialize, network, and make new friends.
Saturday August 17, 2024 8:00pm - 11:00pm MDT
Games Room (Rundle)

9:00pm MDT

IFWA Bedtime Stories
Saturday August 17, 2024 9:00pm - 11:00pm MDT
IFWA Bedtime Stories is a WWC classic. An evening of storytelling hosted by the Imaginative Fiction Writers Association (IFWA).

Location: To Be Announced
Saturday August 17, 2024 9:00pm - 11:00pm MDT
 
Sunday, August 18
 

8:00am MDT

Creative Mornings with Miranda Krogstad
Sunday August 18, 2024 8:00am - 8:50am MDT
Stolen time: A slow reflection and goal setting session, before the hustle and bustle of the day, to focus on what you’d like from your craft and your career.
Speakers
avatar for Miranda Krogstad

Miranda Krogstad

Presenter / Content creator, YYSpeak
Miranda Krogstad is a TEDx speaker and bestselling author of the book Glass Half Full of Poetry.  A spoken word poet, eternal optimist, and workshop facilitator, Krogstad has connected with thousands of writers in dozens of cities across Western Canada.  A member of the 2016 national... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 8:00am - 8:50am MDT
Waterton

8:00am MDT

Open Boardgames
Sunday August 18, 2024 8:00am - 3:00pm MDT
Come on in and play board games with your new friends, or make some new friends playing board games.
Sunday August 18, 2024 8:00am - 3:00pm MDT
Games Room (Rundle)

9:00am MDT

#SparkYourCreativity
Sunday August 18, 2024 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
In this session, Jass Aujla will share her experience of using social media (mainly Twitter and Instagram) to spark creativity. And how leveraging #promptwords ignited a new daily creative routine, leading to the publication of poetry and micro fiction pieces in several anthology publications worldwide. This session will be interactive, and she will guide attendees through a couple of fun exercises to spark your creativity.
Speakers
avatar for Jass Aujla

Jass Aujla

JASS AUJLA is the Canadian South-Asian author of debut suspense-thriller, NEXT OF TWIN. In addition to her twisty novels, Jass' poetry and microfiction have appeared in over ten bestselling anthology publications worldwide, including Hidden In Childhood (Literary Revelations Publishing... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
Fireside

9:00am MDT

Revision Strategies for Novelists
Sunday August 18, 2024 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
We've all heard the phrase writing is rewriting. But how do we learn to rewrite? What strategies can we use to tackle the gigantic task of editing a novel? In this interactive seminar, we will discuss different techniques for revision informed by my experience as a novelist and a television writer that can help authors approach rewriting their first drafts.
Speakers
avatar for Meredith Hambrock

Meredith Hambrock

Meredith Hambrock has worked in writing rooms on over 100 episodes of TV Comedy. She most recently served as Executive Story Editor on the sitcom "Corner Gas Animated." In 2022, her episode "A Lot to Be Desired" was nominated for a Leo Award. Her debut mystery novel, OTHER PEOPLE'S... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
Canmore

9:00am MDT

Tips for running a freelance writing and editing business
Sunday August 18, 2024 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
The presentation will offer helpful tips on finding the right markets to offer your services, preparing for interviews and writing efficiently, pricing out assignments, and managing the use of ChatGPT.
Speakers
avatar for Andrew Snook

Andrew Snook

Andrew Snook is a professional writer and editor. His non-fiction and fiction writing have earned him a combined 21 national and international writing awards. Snook is also the founder of Canadian Independent Publishers, which is dedicated to showcasing indie writers, bookstores and... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
Kananaskis 2

9:00am MDT

Live Action Slush - Upmarket Fiction/Memoir
Sunday August 18, 2024 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
Bring the first page of your upmarket fiction or memoir to be anonymously read aloud and receive feedback from our panel of editors. (Please indicate the genre at the top of the page.)
Moderators
avatar for Robin van Eck

Robin van Eck

Robin writes fiction - literary, contemporary, horror, weird and offbeat - and creative nonfiction. Most recently her work has appeared in WonderShift - 40th Anniversary Anthology of the Alexandra Writers Centre, Forbidden Fruit from The Seventh Terrace and Very Much Alive, stories... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Chevais

Jennifer Chevais

Jennifer Chevais is an Associate Literary Agent at The Rights Factory. She's primarily interested in Commercial Horror, Fantasy, SciFi, and all the intersections in between with characters so strong they'll either break your heart or pull it right out of your body.
avatar for Naomi Davis

Naomi Davis

Authors have always been Naomi Davis's superheroes. Growing up in Minnesota, they spent their elementary years pretending they were every character in every book they read. A life-long writer and author-fanatic, they have a mild to moderate obsession with slippers, and sing in two... Read More →
avatar for Stacey Kondla

Stacey Kondla

A life-long bibliophile, Stacey’s experience includes working as a Field Representative for Scholastic Book Fairs, managing at Chapters/Indigo stores, freelance editing, and serving on the organizing committee of When Words Collide (A Festival for Readers and Writers). She joined... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
Fairview

9:00am MDT

Subtext and How To Elevate Your Writing With It
Sunday August 18, 2024 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
What the heck is subtext, and why should anyone care? Subtext can make any plotting device believable; it can make an ending seem surprising and satisfying all at once; it can add layers to your writing that few other techniques will achieve. Subtext answers the question of why word choice is so important, and why editors everywhere will hound the author for 'better word choice here' in their manuscripts. This panel will give the audience professional editors' ideas about subtext and how to use it in your manuscripts.
Moderators
avatar for Alex McGilvery

Alex McGilvery

Alex has been a freelance content editor for years, helping client s produce best selling books and others to sign contract with publishers. I'm the author of 35 or so published books in every genre but romance. I'm a freelance content editor with more than a hundred book edited over... Read More →
Speakers
CG

Cat Girczyc

Cat Girczyc currently works as a technical communications manager while pursuing creative writing at night. She writes female-led stories, poems, and scripts, usually in science fiction or fantasy. Born in Alberta, she's lived in Stettler, Edmonton, Ottawa, and Vancouver. She moved... Read More →
avatar for Adria Laycraft

Adria Laycraft

Freelance editor, published author, and wood artisan, Adria Laycraft earned honours in Journalism Arts in '92 and has worked with words and visual art ever since. She co-edited the Urban Green Man anthology in 2013, which was nominated for an Aurora Award, and has two novels, Jumpship... Read More →
avatar for Rhonda Parrish

Rhonda Parrish

Rhonda is the editor of many anthologies including, most recently, Earth: Giants, Golems and Gargoyles, Grimm, Grit and Gasoline: An anthology of Dieselpunk and Decopunk Fairy Tales and F is for Fairy. In addition, Rhonda is a writer whose work has been in publications such as Tesseracts... Read More →
avatar for Robert Runte, PhD

Robert Runte, PhD

Senior Editor, EssentialEdits.ca
Robert Runté is Senior Editor at EssentialEdits.ca and SFeditor.ca. He has been the developmental editor on over 50 books, 35 of which were traditionally published, primarily SF&F. He has published 100+ short fiction pieces in 50+ venues, including Tesseracts, Pulp Literature, On... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
Kananaskis 1

9:00am MDT

Memoir Writing 101
Sunday August 18, 2024 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
In this memoir workshop, participants will learn how to determine the best structure for their memoir, how to build the narrative arc, and what important steps they need to consider before diving into writing. Through writing exercises, participants will begin laying the bones for the content of their memoir and practice concise writing, while digging deep for the stories they want to tell.
Speakers
avatar for Dana Goldstein

Dana Goldstein

I am an author and podcaster with three published memoirs, The Girl in the Gold Bikini, a collection of stories about my relationship with food, Murder on my Mind, a memoir of menopause, and Spent, a collection of stories about my experience in retail management. My debut middle grade... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
Waterton

9:00am MDT

Villainous Mistakes- How to Prevent Them
Sunday August 18, 2024 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
Looking to create a realistic villain? Avoid the murderous mistakes and common pitfalls writers experience when creating their formidable foe.
Speakers
avatar for Laurie Carmichael

Laurie Carmichael

Laurie Carmichael is fast becoming a well-known figure in the literary community of Okotoks, Alberta. She founded the Foothills Writers Group (FWG), a collective of writers and authors who meet monthly. Laurie is committed to supporting other writers and authors. Laurie coordinates... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
Acadia

9:00am MDT

Blue Pencil Session with Nikki Vogel (Preregistration required)
Sunday August 18, 2024 9:00am - 10:00am MDT
Bring the 1st page of your manuscript (max 1000 words, typed, double-spaced) for one-on-one feedback. There are 4 spots available, sign-up is required.

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN:
When Words Collide 2024: Blue Pencil Session with Nikki Vogel (signupgenius.com)

Or navigate from the AWCS website: WWC - Blue Pencil Sessions (alexandrawriters.org)
Speakers
avatar for Nikki Vogel

Nikki Vogel

Nikki Vogel has had poetry published in Room Magazine, filling Station, and The Istanbul Review. Her short stories have appeared in Luna Station Quarterly, Infective Ink, Empty Sink Publications, and in One Throne Magazine. She has had a few stories anthologized, including in You... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 9:00am - 10:00am MDT
Cascade

9:00am MDT

How to Play D&D
Sunday August 18, 2024 9:00am - 10:00am MDT
Learn to play Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) in one short hour with some of our amazing Dungeon Masters! They will make this world-famous collaborative storytelling game make sense and get you up to speed so you can play a game this weekend to check it out.
Speakers
Sunday August 18, 2024 9:00am - 10:00am MDT
Games Room (Rundle)

9:00am MDT

Sit & Write
Sunday August 18, 2024 9:00am - 10:00am MDT
Join our Sit & Write sessions in our dedicated writing room, where you'll find a quiet, inspiring environment to focus on your craft, surrounded by fellow writers. Whether you're polishing a piece or starting something new, this is your space to create and connect.

As space allows. 
Sunday August 18, 2024 9:00am - 10:00am MDT
Heritage

10:00am MDT

War of the Words Writing Contest: Winner Celebration & Author Reading
Sunday August 18, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
Join us for the announcement of the top 3 winners of the War of the Words writing contest. Enjoy readings from the winners. Judge and Special Guest, Robert J. Sawyer, will be present for the announcement.
Speakers
avatar for Robert J. Sawyer

Robert J. Sawyer

Robert J. Sawyer — called “the dean of Canadian science fiction” by both the CBC and The Ottawa Citizen — is the only Canadian to have won all three of the world’s top awards for best science-fiction novel of the year: the Hugo, the Nebula, and the John W. Campbell Memorial... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
Bonavista Ballroom

10:00am MDT

Mapping Your Meet Cute 2: Romancing the Hero's Journey Story Structure
Sunday August 18, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
We all know the basic story structure of the hero's journey, but have you have tried using it to map out your love interests' relationship arc? Once you have a solid idea of who your love interests are and what their individual character arcs look like, it's time to consider the other part of your romance novel, the relationship arc. In this seminar, you'll learn a new way to use this classic story structure to outline the key plot points in your romance novel.
Speakers
avatar for Trisha Jenn Loehr

Trisha Jenn Loehr

Trisha Jenn Loehr is a romance writer and Author Accelerator-certified book coach who helps busy women who want to write romance novels without guilt or shame prioritize their writing, develop their craft, and find joy in the journey toward their publishing dreams. Connect with her... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
Canmore

10:00am MDT

Quality Time with your characters
Sunday August 18, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
Quality Time With Your Characters
Whether you're starting a new saga or have known your characters for years, this course will
give you a full day to get to know them better! Create character profiles, take quizzes, envision
scenarios, and generally have a great time hanging out with the figments of your imagination.
With a sleepover vibe of excitement and playfulness, you’ll have a blast building depth into your
characters and just enjoying their company!
Speakers
avatar for Miranda Krogstad

Miranda Krogstad

Presenter / Content creator, YYSpeak
Miranda Krogstad is a TEDx speaker and bestselling author of the book Glass Half Full of Poetry.  A spoken word poet, eternal optimist, and workshop facilitator, Krogstad has connected with thousands of writers in dozens of cities across Western Canada.  A member of the 2016 national... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
Acadia

10:00am MDT

Alien Language
Sunday August 18, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
Animals make sophisticated calls but only humans – and now AI chatbots! – talk. No other creature on Earth – ape or bird – has mastered syntax: structured sentences with a subject, verb and object. Dinosaurs had over 200 million years to acquire language, but probably didn’t. Did Neanderthals talk? Today, 8.1 billion chattering humans are the masters of the planet. But what about sentient aliens? Could language evolve differently on one of the estimated 40 billion Earth-like habitable exoplanets in the Milky Way? Does speech need words? How does language shape culture? A science fiction author Guy Immega (Super-Earth Mother, EDGE SFF 2023) examines some of the myriad possibilities, including radio and light languages. [His talk will NOT be a lesson in Klingon or Chakobsa!]
Speakers
avatar for Guy Immega

Guy Immega

I am a retired aerospace engineer and entrepreneur, living in Vancouver, Canada. My company, Kinetic Sciences Inc. built experimental robots for the space station, robots to clean up nuclear waste and miniature fingerprint sensors for cell phones. In 2005, I sold the corporate intellectual... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
Fairview

10:00am MDT

Pathways to Publication
Sunday August 18, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
Exploring pathways to publication via conventional publishing, self-publishing, and Independent (Indie) publishing. Panelists share their experiences, pros and cons on these diverse pathways to publication in the North American marketplace.
Moderators
avatar for Jennifer Slebioda

Jennifer Slebioda

Emerging photo-poet, Jennifer Slebioda, published for the first time in POLAR BOREALIS #19 – Aug-Sep 2021 in the #19, September 2021 issue, resides in Calgary, Alberta, with her two teenagers and two cats. With decades as an amateur photographer, private poet, journal writer... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for R. Graeme Cameron

R. Graeme Cameron

R. Graeme Cameron lives in Nanaimo, British Columbia. In 2016 he began publishing and editing the online speculative fiction magazine Polar Borealis. In 2021 he added Polar Starlight, devoted to speculative poetry, edited by Rhea E. Rose. He has written reviews of Canadian Speculative... Read More →
avatar for Jack Castle

Jack Castle

Jack Castle has been labeled by the Coeur D’Alene Press as the “Man of Adventures!” He grew up in Florida and while working as a young stuntman for Orlando Theme Parks, he was hand selected by George Lucas to play a Han Solo look-a-like for Disney's Hollywood Studios. It was... Read More →
ML

Mark Leslie

Mark’s first short story appeared in print in 1992, the same year he started working in the book industry. He has published more than twenty-five books under the name Mark Leslie that include thrillers and fiction (Evasion, A Canadian Werewolf in New York, One Hand Screaming... Read More →
avatar for Nathan Ogloff

Nathan Ogloff

I have always had a fascination with creating stories that are rich, intricate, and create a lasting impression on the reader. Previous writing credentials include two unpublished short stories. Other than those, this will be my debut novel. When I'm not writing, I am usually adding... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
Kananaskis 2

10:00am MDT

Prairie Gothic: Crafting Homegrown Modern Horror
Sunday August 18, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
Horror doesn't have to be set in the pacific northwest, New England, or across the border at all. We're challenging the assumption that you can't sell Canadian creep. Prairies are scary! Endless sky and whispering grasslands, all set ominously in the shadow of the Rockies. Let's kick over the stones in our own backyard and see what terrors lurk beneath.
Moderators Speakers
avatar for Lareina Abbott

Lareina Abbott

Lareina Abbott pens Métis themed speculative fiction, essays and memoir. Her stories have a tie to the spiritual or natural world, and to ancestry. She received the Writers Guild of Alberta 2023 Howard O’Hagan award for her short story “Ma Soeur Marie” published in the Prairie... Read More →
avatar for Rob Bose

Rob Bose

Robert Bose grew up on a farm in southern Alberta spending every free moment reading whatever fiction he could get his hands on. He's the editor of a variety of books and anthologies for Coffin Hop Press and The Seventh Terrace, the author of myriad short stories including the fiendish... Read More →
avatar for Sarah L. Pratt

Sarah L. Pratt

Sarah L. Pratt is an editor, publisher, teacher, bookseller, and queer fictioneer living on Treaty 7 land in the foothills of Alberta. She is an AMPA finalist and the author of Suicide Stitch: Eleven Tales (EMP Publishing), and the dystopian thriller Infractus (Coffin Hop Press... Read More →
avatar for Carolyne Topdjian

Carolyne Topdjian

Carolyne Topdjian is author of The Black Moth and The Hitman's Daughter (Agora/Polis Books), a gothic thriller which Library Journal calls a “fast-paced, haunting novel of survival” (starred review). She has published short fiction in PRISM International, Dreamers Magazine, and Firewords Quarterly and was shortlisted for the Ghost Prize by Fractured Literary. Her creative endeavours gravitate toward fusions of gothic mystery, noir suspense, and surrealist f... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
Kananaskis 1

10:00am MDT

From Writer to Agent
Sunday August 18, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
Wayne Arthurson talks about how he partially transitioned his writing career to become a literary agent and through his own journey, may offer insight on the thought process of a literary agent, how they operate and what they are looking for.
Speakers
avatar for Wayne Arthurson

Wayne Arthurson

Wayne Arthurson is a writer and literary agent of Cree and French-Canadian descent, the author of eight novels, five books of non-fiction and countless articles. His novels have won an Alberta Readers’ Choice Award, an Arthur Ellis Award for Crime Writing and Best Trade Fiction... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
Fireside

10:00am MDT

Quick and Dirty D&D
Sunday August 18, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am MDT
Don’t have a lot of time? New to Dungeons and Dragons and just want to try it out? Come and play using a simplified pre-made character sheet and a Dungeon Master who will walk you through it. A great game for both new and seasoned players.

There will be two tables each with 5 spaces. 
Speakers
Sunday August 18, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am MDT
Games Room (Rundle)

10:00am MDT

Pitch Sessions for EDGE (Preregistration required)
Sunday August 18, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am MDT
Looking for a publisher or want to practice pitching to one? Pitch your manuscript to EDGE Science Fiction and Fantasy. If we like it, we'll ask for a sample.

EDGE has been publishing thought-provoking full length novels and anthologies of Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror for decades, growing to be one of the largest independent speculative fiction publishers in Canada.

There are only 6 spots available, sign-up required!

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN:
When Words Collide 2024: Pitch Session with Edge Publishing (signupgenius.com)

Or visit the AWCS website:
WWC - Pitch Sessions (alexandrawriters.org)
Speakers
avatar for Ella Beaumont

Ella Beaumont

Assistant to the Publisher, EDGE Science Fiction and Fantasy Publishing
Ella Beaumont has been professionally involved in the publishing industry in both traditional and freelancing capacities since 2012. She has experience in editing, book packaging, and sales and marketing roles. She previously served as the acquisition editor for EDGE Science Fiction... Read More →
avatar for Brian Hades

Brian Hades

President, EDGE Science Fiction and Fantasy Publishing
As the head of EDGE Science Fiction and Fantasy Publishing, Brian Hades has been leading efforts to publish and promote high-quality, thought-provoking works in these genres.Through EDGE, he has published an international roster of authors tackling a wide variety of speculative fiction... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am MDT
Cascade

10:00am MDT

Feast for the Senses: The Art of Food Writing with Wendy McGrath
Sunday August 18, 2024 10:00am - 11:50am MDT
Food is more than just sustenance; it can be a powerful narrative tool in storytelling. In this immersive two-hour masterclass, we will delve into the art of food writing beyond restaurant reviews. From memoir to fiction, poetry to creative non-fiction, we will uncover how food can be a vibrant character, a sensory description, and a thematic element that adds depth to your writing.

Participants will learn how to weave food seamlessly into their narratives, drawing inspiration from recipes, cookbooks, and personal experiences. Through guided writing exercises and group workshops, you will discover how to use food to evoke emotion, develop characters, and create rich, unforgettable scenes. Join us and explore the delicious world of food writing!
Speakers
avatar for Wendy McGrath

Wendy McGrath

Wendy McGrath is a Métis poet, writer, and visual artist living and working in amiskwacîwâskahikan (Edmonton) on Treaty 6 Territory.Winner of the inaugural Prairie Grindstone Prize 2023-2024, McGrath’s writing practice embraces multiple genres—fiction, poetry, spoken word... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 10:00am - 11:50am MDT
Waterton

11:00am MDT

Author Reading in the Atrium: Ana Stanojevic & Alison Clarke
Sunday August 18, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am MDT
Join  Ana Stanojevic and Alison Clarke as they provide a reading from their work.

Alison Clarke will read a poem from her poetry collection entitled, Phillis, published by the University of Calgary press, and from the third novel in her young adult fantasy series, Circle.
Speakers
avatar for Ana Stanojevic

Ana Stanojevic

Ana Stanojevic, author of Fire Wave Trilogy, lives in Calgary, AB with her family. Her dream was always to become an author.She got the idea of her Fire Wave Trilogy when she was on a vacation with her family in Greece and from there, she started to map out the trilogy, jotting down... Read More →
avatar for Alison Clarke

Alison Clarke

Alison Clarke is a poet, fantasy author, and visual artist who is also the Amazon #1 bestselling author of Phillis: A Poetry Collection (University Of Calgary Press, 2020), and the award winning young adult fantasy trilogy, The Sisterhood, for which she won the Diversity Magazine... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am MDT
Atrium

11:00am MDT

Blue Pencil Session with Judah Leblang (Preregistration required)
Sunday August 18, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am MDT
Bring the 1st page of your manuscript (max 1000 words, typed, double-spaced) for one-on-one feedback. There are 4 spots available, sign-up is required.

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN:
When Words Collide 2024: Blue Pencil Session with Judah Leblang (signupgenius.com)

Or navigate from the AWCS website: WWC - Blue Pencil Sessions (alexandrawriters.org)
Speakers
avatar for Judah Leblang

Judah Leblang

Judah Leblang is a Boston-based writer, teacher, and storyteller. He is the author of the essay collection, Finding My Place (Lake Effect Press, 2012) and the memoir Echoes of Jerry (Red Giant Books, 2019). He has performed his one-man show, "It's Now or Never" at Calgary Fringe--(Best... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am MDT
Cascade

11:00am MDT

Blurb Shop
Sunday August 18, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am MDT
Includes audience participation. Get split into teams and, using a simple plot, create a short book blurb. Share the blurb and vote for which sells it best. Panelists will discuss what makes an effective blurb.

Steffanie Costigan, Reading Dream Press
Rob Bose, Seventh Terrace
Ed Willett, ShadowPaw Press
Brian Hades, EDGE Publishing
Speakers
avatar for Ed Willett

Ed Willett

Edward Willett is the award-winning author of more than sixty books of science fiction, fantasy, and non-fiction for readers of all ages. His most recent science fiction novel, The Tangled Stars, was his twelfth for New York's DAW Books. Ed is also an Aurora Award-winning podcaster... Read More →
avatar for Rob Bose

Rob Bose

Robert Bose grew up on a farm in southern Alberta spending every free moment reading whatever fiction he could get his hands on. He's the editor of a variety of books and anthologies for Coffin Hop Press and The Seventh Terrace, the author of myriad short stories including the fiendish... Read More →
avatar for Brian Hades

Brian Hades

President, EDGE Science Fiction and Fantasy Publishing
As the head of EDGE Science Fiction and Fantasy Publishing, Brian Hades has been leading efforts to publish and promote high-quality, thought-provoking works in these genres.Through EDGE, he has published an international roster of authors tackling a wide variety of speculative fiction... Read More →
avatar for Steffanie Costigan

Steffanie Costigan

Author Steffanie Costigan began her passion for writing at the young age of three years old. Despite her ongoing challenge with Dyslexia, she began to develop her skill in writing.Steffanie would visit her next-door neighbors often, who was an elderly couple from Germany; they shared... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am MDT
Fairview

11:00am MDT

Creating Worlds
Sunday August 18, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am MDT
Join us for a panel discussion on the art and craft of world-building across different genres. This session is designed to explore the fundamental elements of world-building and what it means to seamlessly incorporate them into our writing. Whether you’re crafting a fantastical realm, a dystopian future, or a contemporary setting, the principles of world-building remain pivotal in bringing your story to life.
Moderators
avatar for Sarah Johnson

Sarah Johnson

Sarah Johnson writes science fiction and fantasy, is a local business owner (Titan Health & Safety), teaches World Building, facilitates the Weekly Write In, is a Co-Chair for the When Words Collide committee and is the current President for The Alexandra Writers Centre Society. Sarah... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Rick Overwater

Rick Overwater

Rick Overwater is a longtime Calgary-based fiction author, songwriter and comic creator.His graphic novel, Futility: Orange Planet Horror was nominated for a 2019 Aurora Award in the Canadian Science Fiction and Fantasy Association’s Best Graphic Novel category. As well, his short... Read More →
avatar for Miji Campbell

Miji Campbell

Miji Campbell is currently writing historical fiction and disappears regularly down rabbit holes of research. Her memoir Separation Anxiety: A Coming of Middle Age Story was her first book and winner of the 2016 Whistler Independent Book Award for Nonfiction. Miji's work has appeared... Read More →
avatar for Bonnie Jacoby

Bonnie Jacoby

Bonnie Jacoby writes adventurous fantasy and futuristic science fiction for teens. As a resident of the beautiful Pacific Northwest, Bonnie's love for nature is reflected in her stories, transporting readers to worlds that are both familiar and fantastical. With her debut book, Dreams... Read More →
avatar for Kevin Weir

Kevin Weir

I began my work in film before becoming an author of page, stage, and screen. A fan of fantastical worlds, I found a way to channel my chaotic energies into wild yarns, taking readers on unforgettable journeys. My debut novel, Endless Hunger, was praised as a "riveting, genre-blending... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am MDT
Bonavista Ballroom

11:00am MDT

How to Craft a Great SFF Villain
Sunday August 18, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am MDT
It is a truism in all literature, that the stronger the antagonist, the stronger the story, whether we are talking Hannibal Lecter, Nurse Rached or Professor Moriarty. But Science Fiction and Fantasy genres are particularly known for villains who are the embodiment of evil, such as Sauron, Darth Vader, and Voldemort. Writing a human villain often—not always—brings with it the complexities of doubt, childhood shame, and humanity. How does this apply—or not apply—to fantastical villains?
Moderators
avatar for Krista Wallace

Krista Wallace

Krista is a fantasy writer, jazz & rock musician, audiobook narrator, actor, podcaster, mother, Gran, lover of pie, dark chocolate, and fine single malt scotch. She hails from Port Coquitlam, BC, where she writes and records in a closet, emerging occasionally to sing with the big... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Chris Carolan

Chris Carolan

Chris Patrick Carolan is an author, editor, and hovercraft enthusiast, originally from Glasgow but now based in Calgary, Alberta. He writes steampunk, horror, fantasy, and science fiction, though he has also been known to turn to crime to make ends meet. Crime fiction, that is. His... Read More →
avatar for Susan Forest

Susan Forest

Editor, Laksa Media Groups
Susan Forest is the author of dual Aurora Award-winners Bursts of Fire (2019) and Flights of Marigold (2020) as well as over 25 internationally-published short stories (Analog Science Fiction and Fact, Asimov's Science Fiction, Beneath Ceaseless Skies, and Orson Scot Card's Intergalactic... Read More →
avatar for Ron S. Friedman

Ron S. Friedman

RON S. FRIEDMAN is an award-winning science fiction author from Calgary. His novel, TYPHOON TIME, is an Amazon.ca #1 Best Seller in Time-Travel, his collection, ESCAPE VELOCITY, is Calgary Herald #1 Best Seller, and his story, GAME NOT OVER, is a Best Short Fiction finalist in the... Read More →
avatar for Valerie L. King

Valerie L. King

Valerie L. King is a member if the Imaginative Fiction Writers Association (IFWA) and Calgary Crime Writers. She has some published short stories and is currently writing an urban fantasy series as well as several non-fiction books. Her passions are music, art, and volunteering with... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am MDT
Kananaskis 2

11:00am MDT

The Soul of Short Fiction
Sunday August 18, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am MDT
This workshop will discuss the structure and goals of short fiction and the difference between a short story, anecdote, vignette, and scene. We will examine experiments in form and content, and analyze a few pieces of current ground-breaking short fiction to see what makes them tick. Finally, we will discuss trends, venues, and best practices for submitting short fiction.
Speakers
avatar for Premee Mohamed

Premee Mohamed

Premee Mohamed is a Nebula, World Fantasy, and Aurora award-winning Indo-Caribbean scientist and speculative fiction author based in Edmonton, Alberta. She has also been a finalist for the Hugo, Ignyte, British Fantasy, and Crawford awards. She is an Assistant Editor at the short... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am MDT
Fireside

11:00am MDT

Cupcake Creativity
Sunday August 18, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am MDT
Feeling overwhelmed by a busy conference? Join this kind, supportive session and have fun playing creative writing games in multiple formats. Suitable for fledgling writers to published authors who would like to engage in imaginative fun and dessert. Cupcakes provided, including gluten-free, vegan, and Keto.
Speakers
avatar for Dorothy Bentley

Dorothy Bentley

Dorothy Bentley is published in articles, interviews, columns, cartoons, blogs, short stories, poetry, novel, picture book, and anthologies. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English, and has taught writing previously in several venues, including Keyano College, Bow Valley College... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am MDT
Heritage

11:00am MDT

Mindful Stories
Sunday August 18, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am MDT
Mindfulness, the act of paying attention without passing judgment, can be a useful tool for writers wanting to sharpen their storytelling in unique and intentional ways. Discover how reconnecting with your inner self can improve your writing. This workshop will include mindful writing exercises and a discussion on creating a practice that works for you and your mental health.
Speakers
avatar for Joy Norstrom

Joy Norstrom

Joy Norstrom (she/her) is a fiction writer and social worker residing in Treaty 7 Territory. She writes for both children (Marjorie Magic, 2023) and adult audiences (Flying the Nest, 2020; Out of Play, 2016). Her stories feature current social issues while exploring themes of identify... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am MDT
Acadia

11:00am MDT

How To Make Money Writing, with Robert J Sawyer and James Fell
Sunday August 18, 2024 11:00am - 12:20pm MDT
Love writing AND paying bills? Then this is the seminar for you. Robert J Sawyer and James Fell are pioneers in both their genres and in finding innovative and successful pathways to making the writing they love to do more financially lucrative. Robert J Sawyer has utilized everything from traditional publishing, self publishing, television and a ground breaking Audible exclusive deal to find immense success, and James Fell harnessed the power of social media and swear words to turn self-published history books into a deal even he didn't have enough F words for. In 2023, each of these presenters spoke at WWC on this issue separately to standing room only audiences, so in 2024 we are bringing these titans together for a fantastic seminar to give you specific examples and instances where you can harness your inner entrepreneur to find ways to make money writing.
Moderators Speakers
avatar for James Fell

James Fell

James Fell got into writing for the money, which is one of the stupidest things you’ll ever read. It’s also a half-truth. He loves writing so much that he wanted to quit his soul-destroying job and write full-time. That meant he had to earn. With an MBA and a dozen years of sales... Read More →
avatar for Robert J. Sawyer

Robert J. Sawyer

Robert J. Sawyer — called “the dean of Canadian science fiction” by both the CBC and The Ottawa Citizen — is the only Canadian to have won all three of the world’s top awards for best science-fiction novel of the year: the Hugo, the Nebula, and the John W. Campbell Memorial... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 11:00am - 12:20pm MDT
Kananaskis 1

11:00am MDT

Writing Cozy Mysteries
Sunday August 18, 2024 11:00am - 12:20pm MDT
Cozy crime is back! Or perhaps it never really went away. With international bestsellers like Richard Osman and Janice Hallett breathing new life into the mystery sub genre, it’s never been a better time to be a cozy writer. This workshop explores the fundamentals of what makes cozy crime cozy crime - from characterisation to strong settings, humour and catching the baddies.
Speakers
avatar for Jonathan Whitelaw

Jonathan Whitelaw

Jonathan Whitelaw is an award-winning author, journalist and broadcaster. After working on the frontline of Scottish politics, he moved into journalism, covering everything from sports to music to radioactive waste – and everything in between. He's also a regular reviewer, panelist... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 11:00am - 12:20pm MDT
Canmore

11:00am MDT

Magic the Gathering Mixer
Sunday August 18, 2024 11:00am - 1:00pm MDT
Do you play Magic the Gathering? Bring your cards and find other people to play with in this awesome mixer. Any version will do, there will always be someone ready to challenge you to a fight.
Sunday August 18, 2024 11:00am - 1:00pm MDT
Games Room (Rundle)

12:00pm MDT

Poetry: Narratives of Family and Place
Sunday August 18, 2024 12:00pm - 12:50pm MDT
One element of a powerful story, be it a poem or a narrative, is its specificity, its grounding in time and place.

How is who we are built on where we are from? What tales travel through time to be integrated into the fabric of our writing? Whether it be tender or painful memories, bits of song, words in our cradle language, a cherished recipe ... how do these traditions and filaments of memory come through in our writing? Are we imprinted with the places our parents walked, places we may have visited in our lifetimes if not in their retelling? How can this legacy provide the backdrop against which our stories recapture lost time, faraway places, in essence come alive for ourselves and our audience?
Moderators Speakers
avatar for Josephine LoRe

Josephine LoRe

a pearl in this diamond worldJosephine LoRe has shared her poetry live on stage, in podcasts and radio programs, and in international zoom rooms. Her words have been put to music, danced, and integrated into visual art. She has two collections, Unity and the Calgary Herald Bestseller... Read More →
avatar for Jennifer Slebioda

Jennifer Slebioda

Emerging photo-poet, Jennifer Slebioda, published for the first time in POLAR BOREALIS #19 – Aug-Sep 2021 in the #19, September 2021 issue, resides in Calgary, Alberta, with her two teenagers and two cats. With decades as an amateur photographer, private poet, journal writer... Read More →
avatar for Anne Sorbie

Anne Sorbie

Anne Sorbie is a writer and Humanista! A liberal humanist who thinks all people have a right to be who they are. She has published four books, the latest of which is the (M)othering anthology (co-edited with Heidi Grogan). Her work has appeared on line at CBC Books, and in a range... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 12:00pm - 12:50pm MDT
Fairview

12:00pm MDT

Writers at the Improv
Sunday August 18, 2024 12:00pm - 12:50pm MDT
IFWA Event hosted by Renee Bennett
Speakers
RB

Renée Bennett

Renée Bennett is an author, an editor, and a word nerd. Her degree is in Linguistics and she’s had six Aurora nominations, but no wins (yet.) She writes anything she darn well pleases: light stuff and dark stuff and mash-up stuff and stuff people say cannot or should not be written... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 12:00pm - 12:50pm MDT
Kananaskis 2

12:00pm MDT

Crafting with Care: How Authenticity Reading Enhances Your Writing
Sunday August 18, 2024 12:00pm - 12:50pm MDT
As storytellers, we strive to resonate with our readers, yet the effects of our words can sometimes veer from our intentions. This workshop is designed to illuminate how authenticity reading can prevent the inadvertent perpetuation of harmful tropes, especially when exploring experiences beyond our own. Learn the essentials: what authenticity reading involves, its importance in storytelling, the typical authenticity reading process, where to find expert readers, and how to effectively integrate their feedback into your work. Join me to refine your skills in weaving stories with both heart and responsibility.
Speakers
avatar for Brenna Bailey-Davies

Brenna Bailey-Davies

Bookmarten Editorial
Brenna Bailey writes queer contemporary romance and owns an editing business called Bookmarten Editorial. If her nose isn't buried in a book, you can probably find her out in the woods somewhere admiring plants or attempting to identify birds. She is a starry-eyed traveler and a home... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 12:00pm - 12:50pm MDT
Waterton

12:00pm MDT

Oracle and Tarot Cards for Writing Inspiration
Sunday August 18, 2024 12:00pm - 12:50pm MDT
This session invites writers to explore the potential of oracle cards as a tool to enhance creativity and navigate common writing challenges—not just for yourself, but for your characters as well! We'll go through a brief introduction to oracle cards, how to choose the right deck, and how and why to use the cards to overcome writer's block. We'll talk about basic card spreads, interpreting cards and translating insights into your writing practice for long-term success.
Speakers
avatar for Michelle Konde

Michelle Konde

Michelle Konde is an editor, graphic designer, and author of The Order Trilogy. A writer at heart, she has spent more than 20 years perfecting her style voice and exploring various writing techniques. Her latest novel, The Bloodline, is the final installment of the espionage trilogy... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 12:00pm - 12:50pm MDT
Acadia

12:00pm MDT

Spinning Straw into Gold
Sunday August 18, 2024 12:00pm - 12:50pm MDT
That first drafts are terrible is common knowledge. How do you take that first draft and start turning it into a book you want to put out into the world? From tips on checking your story structure, using scene and transitions, to ways to improve your prose. Alex McGilvery has worked on dozens of books to help authors accomplish the feat of turning that early draft into something polished and ready to publish, or pitch to publishers and agents.
Speakers
avatar for Alex McGilvery

Alex McGilvery

Alex has been a freelance content editor for years, helping client s produce best selling books and others to sign contract with publishers. I'm the author of 35 or so published books in every genre but romance. I'm a freelance content editor with more than a hundred book edited over... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 12:00pm - 12:50pm MDT
Fireside

1:00pm MDT

Author Reading in the Atrium: Miranda Krogstad & Judah Leblang
Sunday August 18, 2024 1:00pm - 1:30pm MDT
Join Miranda Krogstad and Judah Leblang as they provide a reading from their work.
Speakers
avatar for Miranda Krogstad

Miranda Krogstad

Presenter / Content creator, YYSpeak
Miranda Krogstad is a TEDx speaker and bestselling author of the book Glass Half Full of Poetry.  A spoken word poet, eternal optimist, and workshop facilitator, Krogstad has connected with thousands of writers in dozens of cities across Western Canada.  A member of the 2016 national... Read More →
avatar for Judah Leblang

Judah Leblang

Judah Leblang is a Boston-based writer, teacher, and storyteller. He is the author of the essay collection, Finding My Place (Lake Effect Press, 2012) and the memoir Echoes of Jerry (Red Giant Books, 2019). He has performed his one-man show, "It's Now or Never" at Calgary Fringe--(Best... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 1:00pm - 1:30pm MDT
Atrium

1:00pm MDT

Filter Words and More
Sunday August 18, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
We will learn how to hunt down words that clutter our writing and create distance between the reader and the character.
Speakers
avatar for monica zwikstra

monica zwikstra

Monica Sagle Zwikstra is the author of two epic fantasy novels, Dragons Flight, and Alban's Choice.. Monica's writing skills extend to short stories as well, with her story Storm House being published in the anthology A Haunting of Words and her flash fiction Humanity appearing in... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Kananaskis 2

1:00pm MDT

Live Action Slush - Science Fiction
Sunday August 18, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Bring the first page of your science fiction manuscript to be anonymously read aloud and receive feedback from our panel of editors. (Please indicate the genre at the top of the page.)
Moderators
avatar for Kevin Weir

Kevin Weir

I began my work in film before becoming an author of page, stage, and screen. A fan of fantastical worlds, I found a way to channel my chaotic energies into wild yarns, taking readers on unforgettable journeys. My debut novel, Endless Hunger, was praised as a "riveting, genre-blending... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Ella Beaumont

Ella Beaumont

Assistant to the Publisher, EDGE Science Fiction and Fantasy Publishing
Ella Beaumont has been professionally involved in the publishing industry in both traditional and freelancing capacities since 2012. She has experience in editing, book packaging, and sales and marketing roles. She previously served as the acquisition editor for EDGE Science Fiction... Read More →
avatar for R. Graeme Cameron

R. Graeme Cameron

R. Graeme Cameron lives in Nanaimo, British Columbia. In 2016 he began publishing and editing the online speculative fiction magazine Polar Borealis. In 2021 he added Polar Starlight, devoted to speculative poetry, edited by Rhea E. Rose. He has written reviews of Canadian Speculative... Read More →
avatar for Susan Forest

Susan Forest

Editor, Laksa Media Groups
Susan Forest is the author of dual Aurora Award-winners Bursts of Fire (2019) and Flights of Marigold (2020) as well as over 25 internationally-published short stories (Analog Science Fiction and Fact, Asimov's Science Fiction, Beneath Ceaseless Skies, and Orson Scot Card's Intergalactic... Read More →
avatar for Robert J. Sawyer

Robert J. Sawyer

Robert J. Sawyer — called “the dean of Canadian science fiction” by both the CBC and The Ottawa Citizen — is the only Canadian to have won all three of the world’s top awards for best science-fiction novel of the year: the Hugo, the Nebula, and the John W. Campbell Memorial... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Fairview

1:00pm MDT

Dystopian Fiction
Sunday August 18, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Discusses the elements and appeal of dystopian fiction in the genres of Fantasy and Science Fiction. The types and customs of being a depressing writer, without getting into the Literary mental stuff.
Moderators
avatar for Sarah L. Pratt

Sarah L. Pratt

Sarah L. Pratt is an editor, publisher, teacher, bookseller, and queer fictioneer living on Treaty 7 land in the foothills of Alberta. She is an AMPA finalist and the author of Suicide Stitch: Eleven Tales (EMP Publishing), and the dystopian thriller Infractus (Coffin Hop Press... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for L. A. Cunningham

L. A. Cunningham

L. A. Cunningham is an author and comic book creator with a dark and twisty sense of humour that pairs nicely with her dark and twisty writing. She and her spouse have two small human children and one larger canine child, all of whom enjoy eating food off the floor and watching squirrels... Read More →
avatar for Sarah Johnson

Sarah Johnson

Sarah Johnson writes science fiction and fantasy, is a local business owner (Titan Health & Safety), teaches World Building, facilitates the Weekly Write In, is a Co-Chair for the When Words Collide committee and is the current President for The Alexandra Writers Centre Society. Sarah... Read More →
avatar for Deven Kane

Deven Kane

Deven Kane plays a mean bass and loves to tell stories. He writes dystopian science fiction and urban fantasy, which he describes as supernatural thrillers set on another world. He's been honing his writing chops since junior high school, and had barely entered eighth grade when he... Read More →
avatar for Nathan Ogloff

Nathan Ogloff

I have always had a fascination with creating stories that are rich, intricate, and create a lasting impression on the reader. Previous writing credentials include two unpublished short stories. Other than those, this will be my debut novel. When I'm not writing, I am usually adding... Read More →
DW

David Worsick

David Worsick is a retired technical writer and active fiction writer who has some short stories and one children's book (Henry's Gift) published. He has a B.Sc. Geology and an MBA (be afraid, very afraid).
Sunday August 18, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Kananaskis 1

1:00pm MDT

How to Really Get Published by Jack Castle
Sunday August 18, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Jack Castle, one of Amazon’s best-selling authors, will guide you step-by-step through the process of preparing your novel for agents and publishers, and how to contact them. His novels have been consistently ranked in the Top 100 Bestselling books on Amazon and are available worldwide in e-book, print, iTunes, and Barnes and Noble. When he isn’t working on his next book in his popular "Stranger World" series or traveling the world and going on adventures to fuel them, he enjoys helping others realize their dream of getting published by teaching classes at local universities.
This workshop series is designed for anyone interested in becoming a published author, regardless of where they are in the writing process.
Speakers
avatar for Jack Castle

Jack Castle

Jack Castle has been labeled by the Coeur D’Alene Press as the “Man of Adventures!” He grew up in Florida and while working as a young stuntman for Orlando Theme Parks, he was hand selected by George Lucas to play a Han Solo look-a-like for Disney's Hollywood Studios. It was... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Waterton

1:00pm MDT

Play With Us! Collaborative Play Creation Hands-On Workshop
Sunday August 18, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Creating a play can seem overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone. Join us for a hands-on workshop where you'll learn how fun collective play creation can be. Led by experienced playwrights, this workshop will show you how to brainstorm and develop plays in a group, navigate creative differences, and craft a cohesive and engaging story that reflects the vision of the entire team. Whether you're a seasoned playwright or just starting out, this workshop will offer valuable insights and practical techniques for creating plays that are truly collaborative works of art. So come play with us and discover the joys of collaborative play creation!
Speakers
avatar for Megan Baldrey

Megan Baldrey

Megan Baldrey is multi-passionate artist and adult spelling bee champion based out of Calgary, Alberta (Mohkinstsis). An honours' graduate of Mount Royal University's Theatre Performance Program, Megan works as a professional voice actor by day and a playwright, arts educator and... Read More →
avatar for Claire Bolton

Claire Bolton

Claire Bolton is a graduate of the University of Calgary’s Drama department (BFA ’09), and has made her career as a stage manager, performer, producer, and educator. Upon graduating she was granted an internship with Quest Theatre, and has remained a part of the company as a member... Read More →
avatar for Erin Weir

Erin Weir

Erin Weir, BFA BEd MEd, is a Calgary-based adult educator, currently the Learning and Education Resource Specialist at University of Calgary post-graduate medical education. She has a special interest in individualized learning strategies and how they intersect with resident learning... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Acadia

1:00pm MDT

Writing to Heal Us
Sunday August 18, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
The creative practice of writing can offer healing and wellness if we let go of perfectionism. This session addresses concerns about offending others, practices intuitive courage in using our literary voice, and discusses generating ideas for fiction and creative nonfiction. Please bring a notebook and pen or a laptop.
Speakers
avatar for Julianne Harvey

Julianne Harvey

Author. Educator. Nurturer., Ruby Finch Books
Julianne Harvey is an author, educator, and nurturer in South Surrey, BC. She’s the author of six books and holds an MFA and a BA in Creative Writing, along with a certificate in Counselling Skills. Her speculative climate novel, Post Civ, is available fall 2024. Please see julianneharvey.com and rubyfinchbooks.com for... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm MDT
Canmore

1:00pm MDT

Blue Pencil Session with Wayne Arthurson (Preregistration required)
Sunday August 18, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MDT
Bring the 1st page of your manuscript (max 1000 words, typed, double-spaced) for one-on-one feedback. There are 4 spots available, sign-up is required.

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN:
When Words Collide 2024: Blue Pencil Session with Wayne Arthurson (signupgenius.com)

Or navigate from the AWCS website: WWC - Blue Pencil Sessions (alexandrawriters.org)
Speakers
avatar for Wayne Arthurson

Wayne Arthurson

Wayne Arthurson is a writer and literary agent of Cree and French-Canadian descent, the author of eight novels, five books of non-fiction and countless articles. His novels have won an Alberta Readers’ Choice Award, an Arthur Ellis Award for Crime Writing and Best Trade Fiction... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MDT
Cascade

1:00pm MDT

Free Fall Writing Session
Sunday August 18, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MDT
Want to learn about the free fall method of writing? Experiencing writer’s block? Need to generate a new story idea? Want to hang out with other writers? Come to the Free Fall Writing sessions during the festival. This session will be a guided session with Finnian Burnett.
Speakers
avatar for Finnian Burnett

Finnian Burnett

Finnian Burnett holds a doctoral degree in English pedagogy and teaches undergrad creative writing and English. Their writing explores intersections of identity — fatness, mental health, disability, queer joy. Finnian was a finalist for the 2023 CBC Nonfiction Prize. Their... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MDT
Heritage

1:00pm MDT

In Conversation with Kris Jackson author of MORTIFIED
Sunday August 18, 2024 1:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Join Kris Jackson and Willa Holmes for an engaging discussion about Kris's debut middle-grade novel, "MORTIFIED." Delve into the inspiration behind the story, the writing process, and the themes explored in the book. This conversation promises to offer unique insights into Kris's work and provide plenty of opportunities for audience interaction.
Speakers
avatar for Willa Holmes

Willa Holmes

Willa Holmes grew up in Edmonton, Alberta, where her love of fiction was born as she secretly read The Hunger Games in her desk. Apart from writing, Willa adores coffee, roller derby, guitar, scouting, and spending time with friends. She is the author of The Isle of Rebels and is... Read More →
avatar for Kris Jackson

Kris Jackson

Kristy Jackson is a communications professional by day, writer by night. She loves books of all kinds, and has led a program to help Santa bring books to kids in remote Indigenous communities each Christmas since 2018. She is also a volunteer board member with Foundations, a local... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 1:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Bonavista Ballroom

1:00pm MDT

Lintusen Press Collaborative Novel
Sunday August 18, 2024 1:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Collaborative Novel: Join us for the process of brainstorming a book project. Interested participants will work through the year to write the book collaboratively.
Speakers
avatar for Shawn L. Bird

Shawn L. Bird

BA MEd. 30+ years teaching writing/reading. 30+ publications in poetry, fiction and non-fiction. Publisher at Lintusen Press, a collaborative micropress.
Sunday August 18, 2024 1:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Fireside

1:00pm MDT

Play Dungeons and Dragons
Sunday August 18, 2024 1:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
Play a one-off campaign in two hours. Not only is this a great way to meet other writers and storytellers who share your interests, but it’s fun to work with a group to tell a tale. Both new and seasoned players welcome. We will have pre-made character sheets and extra dice waiting for you.

This game will be 2-hours in length.
There will be two tables with 5 spaces at each table.
Speakers
Sunday August 18, 2024 1:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
Games Room (Rundle)

2:00pm MDT

Story Boards - Who, What, When, Where and Why!
Sunday August 18, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
We've all heard of them, and many of us have seen them in movies and on television. But what is a Story Board? What is its purpose? Why should you bother? We'll take a look at the pros and cons of using a Story Board as part of your writing process, including setting one up and making the most out of this tool! And whether you should use coloured string to connect things ...
Speakers
avatar for Lisa D. Wilde

Lisa D. Wilde

Lisa has been writing part-time for over 45 years. She was a participant in the Clarion Workshop for Science Fiction and Fantasy in 1984, and since then has worked with local writing groups, sharing the Clarion “method” of workshopping. She has two novels – both in the fantasy sword and sorcery genre – in the final stages of getting ready for publishing. She hopes to debut one of them this year at When Words Collide. She has been a past presenter since 2018, and during the Zoom years... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Acadia

2:00pm MDT

Kickass Fight Scenes
Sunday August 18, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
This lecture will discuss what goes into making a kickass fight scene.
Speakers
avatar for Ron Bender

Ron Bender

Took an arrow to the knee... Now he tells stories. Stay awhile and listen. A born storyteller with a passion for cyberpunk, gaming, and all things tech. Once known as Roland the Savage. Since retired from mock combat. Also retired from business consulting. Ron Bender is the author... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Kananaskis 2

2:00pm MDT

Revise and Thrive: A Comprehensive Guide to Self-Editing
Sunday August 18, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Navigating the world of self-editing can be overwhelming, but it's a crucial step in the writing process. This presentation is tailored for writers, whether you're just starting out or have several published works. We will delve into the intricacies of self-editing, covering everything from large-scale structural edits to sentence-level refinement. Additionally, you'll learn how to recognize when to seek a professional editor's assistance and how to incorporate their feedback constructively. This webinar is your gateway to mastering the art of self-editing and elevating your writing to new heights.
Speakers
avatar for Brenna Bailey-Davies

Brenna Bailey-Davies

Bookmarten Editorial
Brenna Bailey writes queer contemporary romance and owns an editing business called Bookmarten Editorial. If her nose isn't buried in a book, you can probably find her out in the woods somewhere admiring plants or attempting to identify birds. She is a starry-eyed traveler and a home... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Kananaskis 1

2:00pm MDT

Blending Genres
Sunday August 18, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Are you interested in blending genres in creative writing? This panel will explore mixing elements from different genres to create unique and engaging narratives.
Moderators
avatar for Dorothy Bentley

Dorothy Bentley

Dorothy Bentley is published in articles, interviews, columns, cartoons, blogs, short stories, poetry, novel, picture book, and anthologies. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English, and has taught writing previously in several venues, including Keyano College, Bow Valley College... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Robin van Eck

Robin van Eck

Robin writes fiction - literary, contemporary, horror, weird and offbeat - and creative nonfiction. Most recently her work has appeared in WonderShift - 40th Anniversary Anthology of the Alexandra Writers Centre, Forbidden Fruit from The Seventh Terrace and Very Much Alive, stories... Read More →
avatar for Wendy McGrath

Wendy McGrath

Wendy McGrath is a Métis poet, writer, and visual artist living and working in amiskwacîwâskahikan (Edmonton) on Treaty 6 Territory.Winner of the inaugural Prairie Grindstone Prize 2023-2024, McGrath’s writing practice embraces multiple genres—fiction, poetry, spoken word... Read More →
avatar for Sarah L. Pratt

Sarah L. Pratt

Sarah L. Pratt is an editor, publisher, teacher, bookseller, and queer fictioneer living on Treaty 7 land in the foothills of Alberta. She is an AMPA finalist and the author of Suicide Stitch: Eleven Tales (EMP Publishing), and the dystopian thriller Infractus (Coffin Hop Press... Read More →
avatar for D.G. Valdron

D.G. Valdron

Writing for over 20 years. Numerous short story credits. Mermaid's Tale published through Five Rivers Publishing, The Luck contracted with Five Rivers. Twilight of Echelon through At Bay. Multiple books, fiction and nonfiction.
Sunday August 18, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Fairview

2:00pm MDT

Connected Writing Practice: Unlock the Secret to Writing Your Story
Sunday August 18, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Our bodies and minds are constantly at work processing information like emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations. These are all energies at play within us. In order to access that place where all ideas come from, many writers know it as "the flow state", we need to quiet these energies within us. Doing so enables us to connect to that place of higher consciousness and connect with our story on a deeper, more meaningful level so we can create the impact we desire with our written legacy. These are those moments of awe that when shared in written form can change a life or create a ripple effect that can change the world.
Speakers
avatar for Allissa Blondin

Allissa Blondin

CEO, The Feathered Pen
I am a happily married mom of two, and a connector who loves to help people stand in their light so they can write the book they are meant to write!
Sunday August 18, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Canmore

2:00pm MDT

Writing through Grief and Joy
Sunday August 18, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
It is sometimes easy to write in response to nature or to an existing work of art. Many workshops and guides offer prompts for writing, and there is a body of literature to guide us. But how can we do the heavy work? How can writing serve to express what we experience through life's major moments and the joys and hardships of love, parenting, loss? How can we take those raw emotions and turn our deeply personal into something compellingly universal and resonant? In this workshop, we will look at examples of poems that achieve this, and individually explore how to turn this raw material into art.
Speakers
avatar for Josephine LoRe

Josephine LoRe

a pearl in this diamond worldJosephine LoRe has shared her poetry live on stage, in podcasts and radio programs, and in international zoom rooms. Her words have been put to music, danced, and integrated into visual art. She has two collections, Unity and the Calgary Herald Bestseller... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Waterton

2:00pm MDT

Pitch Session for The Seventh Terrace (Preregistration required)
Sunday August 18, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
The Seventh Terrace, a local horror/weird/dark fantasy small press is interested in taking pitches for our 2025 publishing season. There are only 6 spots available, sign-up required!

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN:
When Words Collide 2024: Pitch Session with The Seventh Terrace (signupgenius.com)

Or visit the AWCS website:
WWC - Pitch Sessions (alexandrawriters.org) 
Speakers
avatar for Rob Bose

Rob Bose

Robert Bose grew up on a farm in southern Alberta spending every free moment reading whatever fiction he could get his hands on. He's the editor of a variety of books and anthologies for Coffin Hop Press and The Seventh Terrace, the author of myriad short stories including the fiendish... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
Cascade

2:00pm MDT

Sit & Write
Sunday August 18, 2024 2:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Join our Sit & Write sessions in our dedicated writing room, where you'll find a quiet, inspiring environment to focus on your craft, surrounded by fellow writers. Whether you're polishing a piece or starting something new, this is your space to create and connect.

As space allows. 
Sunday August 18, 2024 2:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Heritage

3:00pm MDT

Louder! I Can't Hear You! - How to give a compelling author reading to keep listeners on the edge of their seat.
Sunday August 18, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Have you ever stepped up to give a reading and found that the microphone is too high? or too low? Does the thought of speaking into a microphone give you the heebie jeebies? Do you give a reading and find that it falls . . . flatter than you were hoping for?
Actor/Singer/Author/Narrator Krista Wallace (who often gives voice to Live Action Slush Pile readings) is here to help! Learn how to step up to a microphone with confidence, how to adjust that pesky piece of electronics to suit your needs, and how to read your work with gusto to keep your audience riveted.
Speakers
avatar for Krista Wallace

Krista Wallace

Krista is a fantasy writer, jazz & rock musician, audiobook narrator, actor, podcaster, mother, Gran, lover of pie, dark chocolate, and fine single malt scotch. She hails from Port Coquitlam, BC, where she writes and records in a closet, emerging occasionally to sing with the big... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Waterton

3:00pm MDT

Websites for Writers: 5 Things You Must Do to Make Your Site Sparkle
Sunday August 18, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
You can write. But can you write a website that speaks to the readers or clients you want to attract? Learn foundational digital marketing concepts for your website and how to apply them to get better results. We're talking: search engine optimization (SEO), headline hierarchy, the structure of your website, CTAs, and the key mistakes many, many writers make on their portfolio or business websites that can hold them back from earning money doing what they love.
Speakers
avatar for Zoey Duncan

Zoey Duncan

Zoey is a ghostwriter, editor, and writing coach whose day job is managing a team of website copywriters at a Calgary marketing agency. She is the author (or ghostwriter) of five nonfiction books and the editor of dozens more, and has a particular affinity for memoir and local history... Read More →
avatar for Stephanie Ross

Stephanie Ross

Website Content Writer
Stephanie is a writer with experience creating content for websites, blogs, stageplays, and screenplays. She's even been part of 2 self-published literary anthologies, once as an author and once as a lead editor. Stephanie is a turn-of-phrase enthusiast and loves crafting engaging... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Canmore

3:00pm MDT

How a year of pretending to be a writer turned me into a writer
Sunday August 18, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
What happens if you pretend to be an author the way kids pretend to be pirates or mermaids or trash collectors? In January 2023, that question inspired a year of making "writerly" choices, with remarkable results. I went from being an unpublished newcomer to Canada to a grant winning published author with a dynamic and supportive writing community I meet regularly in-person and online. Come hang out and find out how you can do it, too.
Speakers
avatar for Christine Tsai Taylor

Christine Tsai Taylor

Owner, StoryCraft
Christine Taylor weaves the threads of storytelling, diversity and inclusion theory, and critical theory to into innovative and inspirational new work that she shares in her writing, through workshops, and in a newsletter, Wonderings. She teaches and consults for clients in Europe... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Fireside

3:00pm MDT

Choosing Your Publishing Path: Self-Pub, Trad-Pub, and Beyond
Sunday August 18, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
As an author, deciding how to publish your work is a pivotal choice that can shape your writing career. In this session, we will look at the complexities of the publishing landscape to help you make an informed decision. We will explore topics such as the pros and cons of self-publishing and traditional publishing (including examples of success); alternative methods of publishing; marketing and promotion; royalties and financial considerations; and how to evaluate evaluating which path is best for your goals and resources.
Moderators
avatar for Andrew Snook

Andrew Snook

Andrew Snook is a professional writer and editor. His non-fiction and fiction writing have earned him a combined 21 national and international writing awards. Snook is also the founder of Canadian Independent Publishers, which is dedicated to showcasing indie writers, bookstores and... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Brenna Bailey-Davies

Brenna Bailey-Davies

Bookmarten Editorial
Brenna Bailey writes queer contemporary romance and owns an editing business called Bookmarten Editorial. If her nose isn't buried in a book, you can probably find her out in the woods somewhere admiring plants or attempting to identify birds. She is a starry-eyed traveler and a home... Read More →
avatar for Diane Bator

Diane Bator

After 10 years as a traditionally published author of 15 novels, I'm switching to self-publishing in 2023. To date, I've been a mystery writer, but venturing into romance and fantasy. Been on the board of Crime Writer of Canada as well as member of TWUC & Sisters in Crime for yea... Read More →
avatar for Ali Bryan

Ali Bryan

Ali Bryan is an award-winning novelist and creative nonfiction writer who explores the what-ifs, the wtfs and the wait-a-minutes of every day. She crafts stories about the downtrodden and disenfranchised, the brokenhearted, and the vulnerable. About lovers and losers, mothers and... Read More →
avatar for Naomi Davis

Naomi Davis

Authors have always been Naomi Davis's superheroes. Growing up in Minnesota, they spent their elementary years pretending they were every character in every book they read. A life-long writer and author-fanatic, they have a mild to moderate obsession with slippers, and sing in two... Read More →
avatar for Leanne Janzen

Leanne Janzen

Starting her journey in the publishing world, Leanne began working as a Publishing Specialist - guiding authors through the self publishing process with care and attention. Her ability to form relationships and desire to continually improve and learn led her to the University of Winnipeg. There... Read More →
avatar for Trisha Jenn Loehr

Trisha Jenn Loehr

Trisha Jenn Loehr is a romance writer and Author Accelerator-certified book coach who helps busy women who want to write romance novels without guilt or shame prioritize their writing, develop their craft, and find joy in the journey toward their publishing dreams. Connect with her... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Kananaskis 1

3:00pm MDT

How Will They Know We Were Here?
Sunday August 18, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
So, what’s your legacy? After all your work, what type of legacy do you want to leave? Don’t wait and don’t ditch everything in your office, including projects you started, published or didn’t publish. What possibilities exist for “dead files,” or the dreams you have for young writers? Hear about “what, why, where and how” to address the concept of legacy. Whether your gift is money, another way of helping writers, or a donation to an archive, your gifts should reflect you, your priorities and experiences. If considering a financial award, scholarship or contest, what’s the process and how will it reflect your priorities? Discover options for the road ahead.
Moderators
avatar for Faye Reineberg Holt

Faye Reineberg Holt

Faye Reineberg Holt has authored 13 adult nonfiction books as well as a mid grade book. All explore western Canada’s fascinating past. She has written articles, short stories and poetry for all ages and co-authored a travel book. Faye is a member of The Writers’ Union of Canada... Read More →
Speakers
SS

Shirlee Smith Matheson

Research, writing, and reading tours take Shirlee Smith Matheson to schools, libraries and museums throughout Canada, and into the homes, offices and aviation hangars of characters featured in her 21 published books, numerous published articles and short stories. Nonfiction books... Read More →
avatar for Bob Stallworthy

Bob Stallworthy

Bob Stallworthy has been a professional writer for 38 years. He has 5 books of poetry published by recognized publishers. Active in the Writers’ Guild of Alberta, he has assumed several roles including Board member and first Program Coordinator in the Calgary office for the Guild... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Fairview

3:00pm MDT

How Writing Groups Can Support Writers
Sunday August 18, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Join representatives from the Alberta Writers' Guild (AWCS), the Imaginative Fiction Writers Association (IFWA), the Writers' Guild of Alberta (WGA), the Calgary Association of Romance Writers of America (CaRWA), and the Alberta Romance Writers' Association (ARWA) for an insightful discussion on how writing groups can support writers.

Discover the benefits of joining a writing group, including networking opportunities, feedback on your work, and motivation to keep writing. Our panelists will share their experiences and offer tips on finding the right writing group for you.

Precious de Leon, AWCS
Ashley Frerichs, WGA
Michael Gillett, IFWA
Ellen Jorgensen, CaRWA
Tammy Lyn Carbol. ARWA
Moderators
avatar for Joy Norstrom

Joy Norstrom

Joy Norstrom (she/her) is a fiction writer and social worker residing in Treaty 7 Territory. She writes for both children (Marjorie Magic, 2023) and adult audiences (Flying the Nest, 2020; Out of Play, 2016). Her stories feature current social issues while exploring themes of identify... Read More →
Speakers
PD

Precious de Leon

Precious is a poet and speculative fiction writer. She writes through the lens of a Filipino Canadian settler in Mohkintsis/Calgary. Following her stint as a business journalist and editor in the Middle East, her creative writing journey started with the 2019 Borderlines Writers Circle... Read More →
avatar for Tammy Lyn Carbol

Tammy Lyn Carbol

Tammy Lyn Carbol has been a member of Alberta Romance Writers' Association (ARWA) since 2000, and is currently President. She loves the writing community and friends she has met over the years, and enjoys giving writing presentations on the craft of writing, She has published stories... Read More →
avatar for Michael Gillett

Michael Gillett

Michael Gillett is currently president of IFWA, and as such feels tremendous pressure to write more. As a recently retired worker bee, he is indeed writing more, and has multiple short stories published (with an Aurora nomination for one of them) along with his first novel : The Collection... Read More →
avatar for Ellen Jorgensen

Ellen Jorgensen

Ellen began telling herself stories in her head as a bored teenager. It wasn't until she was a bored mother of two that she began actually writing her stories down in a permanent way. All of her tales involve love and romance, with a good dollop of adventure and a touch of the Divine...because... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Kananaskis 2

3:00pm MDT

Blue Pencil Session with Rhonda Parrish (Preregistration required)
Sunday August 18, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT
Bring the 1st page of your manuscript (max 1000 words, typed, double-spaced) for one-on-one feedback. There are 4 spots available, sign-up is required.

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN:
When Words Collide 2024: Blue Pencil Session with Rhonda Parrish (signupgenius.com)

Or navigate from the AWCS website: WWC - Blue Pencil Sessions (alexandrawriters.org)
Speakers
avatar for Rhonda Parrish

Rhonda Parrish

Rhonda is the editor of many anthologies including, most recently, Earth: Giants, Golems and Gargoyles, Grimm, Grit and Gasoline: An anthology of Dieselpunk and Decopunk Fairy Tales and F is for Fairy. In addition, Rhonda is a writer whose work has been in publications such as Tesseracts... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT
Cascade

3:00pm MDT

HOW TO CREATE CLUES for your MYSTERY
Sunday August 18, 2024 3:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Get the blueprint for clue creation. Learn the different forms of clues: Direct clues, which are physical and tangible or Indirect clues, which are intellectual and intangible. Understand how to design clues that allows them to be visible yet elusive. Once you know the kind of clues to create and how to twist them, you still have hide them in your story. They need to be overlooked or mistaken for a red herrings. Clues that are well hidden in the twists and turns of a good mystery leave your readers in awe and wondering how they missed the solution.
Speakers
avatar for Juanita Rose Violini

Juanita Rose Violini

Juanita Rose Violini has written & produced live, interactive murder mystery entertainment for over 35 years. Her scripts have been produced in the illustrious Banff Springs Hotel, Chateau Lake Louise, numerous high end hotels and venues in Vancouver. They are currently available... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 3:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Acadia

4:00pm MDT

Closing Event
Sunday August 18, 2024 4:00pm - 4:30pm MDT
Join us for the closing ceremony of the festival. 
Speakers
avatar for Robin van Eck

Robin van Eck

Robin writes fiction - literary, contemporary, horror, weird and offbeat - and creative nonfiction. Most recently her work has appeared in WonderShift - 40th Anniversary Anthology of the Alexandra Writers Centre, Forbidden Fruit from The Seventh Terrace and Very Much Alive, stories... Read More →
avatar for Sarah Johnson

Sarah Johnson

Sarah Johnson writes science fiction and fantasy, is a local business owner (Titan Health & Safety), teaches World Building, facilitates the Weekly Write In, is a Co-Chair for the When Words Collide committee and is the current President for The Alexandra Writers Centre Society. Sarah... Read More →
PD

Precious de Leon

Precious is a poet and speculative fiction writer. She writes through the lens of a Filipino Canadian settler in Mohkintsis/Calgary. Following her stint as a business journalist and editor in the Middle East, her creative writing journey started with the 2019 Borderlines Writers Circle... Read More →
avatar for Nicole Roche

Nicole Roche

Nicole is a published author of short stories, articles, and technical papers. She self-published a children’s book titled When I Grow Up. Her passion is in creative writing, and she is working on a novel within the romance genre. She has been an active member of the AWCS community... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 4:00pm - 4:30pm MDT
Bonavista Ballroom

4:00pm MDT

Editors + Writers Speed Mingle
Sunday August 18, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Find an editor who is right for you in this fast speed dating format. Expect short blocks of time as you rotate around the room talking one-on-one with freelance editors or writing coaches. Bring business cards and have sample pages ready just in case.
Speakers
avatar for Ella Beaumont

Ella Beaumont

Assistant to the Publisher, EDGE Science Fiction and Fantasy Publishing
Ella Beaumont has been professionally involved in the publishing industry in both traditional and freelancing capacities since 2012. She has experience in editing, book packaging, and sales and marketing roles. She previously served as the acquisition editor for EDGE Science Fiction... Read More →
avatar for Ron Bender

Ron Bender

Took an arrow to the knee... Now he tells stories. Stay awhile and listen. A born storyteller with a passion for cyberpunk, gaming, and all things tech. Once known as Roland the Savage. Since retired from mock combat. Also retired from business consulting. Ron Bender is the author... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Canmore

4:00pm MDT

If Napoleon Had a Pet Dragon
Sunday August 18, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
If you've ever wondered what would happen if Cleopatra was a mage, Genghis Khan had prophetic dreams, or Napoleon had a pet dragon, then you're on the cusp of a big decision. Should you your story be Alternative History or Historical Fantasy? What's the difference? And, how do you write for each? In this seminar, we'll explore some of the ways to mix history with fantasy.
Speakers
avatar for Amanda Witow

Amanda Witow

Amanda Witow is the author of the historical fantasy series, Legend's Legacy. An upper elementary teacher with a BA in psychology and classical studies, she is, indisputably, a nerd. She regularly participates in NaNoWriMo (and has even won several times), shares excerpts and short... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Waterton

4:00pm MDT

A Quick and Dirty Guide to Publishing Contracts
Sunday August 18, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
An overview and education on the fundamentals of copyright and contract law, and a breakdown of how these apply to contracts writers encounter in various aspects of publishing. We discuss the key issues and components of publishing contracts and demystify the process. All too often, contracts are scary and impenetrable, we want to take away that fear and give writers the tools to evaluate the agreements presented to them, to tell good from bad, to know what to look out for, what to negotiate, and the limits of negotiation.
Speakers
avatar for D.G. Valdron

D.G. Valdron

Writing for over 20 years. Numerous short story credits. Mermaid's Tale published through Five Rivers Publishing, The Luck contracted with Five Rivers. Twilight of Echelon through At Bay. Multiple books, fiction and nonfiction.
Sunday August 18, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Kananaskis 1

4:00pm MDT

Live Action Slush - YA/Middle Grade
Sunday August 18, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Bring the first page of your YA or middle grade manuscript to be anonymously read aloud and receive feedback from our panel of editors. (Please indicate the genre at the top of the page.)
Moderators
JG

Jenna Greene

Jenna Greene is a YA and children's author. She is known for the CBC Canada recommended middle-grade book "An Owl Without A Name" and her award-winning YA series "The Reborn Marks" series. She also has a list of picture books, YA novels, short stories, and poetry. An English teacher... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Willa Holmes

Willa Holmes

Willa Holmes grew up in Edmonton, Alberta, where her love of fiction was born as she secretly read The Hunger Games in her desk. Apart from writing, Willa adores coffee, roller derby, guitar, scouting, and spending time with friends. She is the author of The Isle of Rebels and is... Read More →
avatar for Bonnie Jacoby

Bonnie Jacoby

Bonnie Jacoby writes adventurous fantasy and futuristic science fiction for teens. As a resident of the beautiful Pacific Northwest, Bonnie's love for nature is reflected in her stories, transporting readers to worlds that are both familiar and fantastical. With her debut book, Dreams... Read More →
avatar for Peter Katsnelson

Peter Katsnelson

Peter Katsnelson is a published youth author who has been in the practice for six years, getting his stories published for the first time in a magazine at the age of nine. Since then, he has won Best Individual Poet at the Alberta provincial poetry competition, independently published... Read More →
avatar for Dianne Koebel-Pede

Dianne Koebel-Pede

Dianne is a former K-9 educator, school counsellor, and Inclusive Education Coordinator. She loves learning and sharing her experiences to help others. In 2023, she was honoured to receive the Writers' Guild of Alberta Mary Bell Scholarship. Dianne participated in the WGA 2024 Mentorship... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Fairview

4:00pm MDT

Noir Fantasy: Vampire Cops and Dark Elf Gumshoes
Sunday August 18, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Crossover genres can gain huge inspiration from their parent genres. Setting fantastical tropes into a noir setting is one such crossover. Panelists discuss how each genre informs and inspires the new work, and provide examples readers might like to explore.
Moderators
avatar for Yvonne Kjorlien

Yvonne Kjorlien

I am: - an INFJ, highly-sensitive person (HSP), rainforest-minded/multipotentialite - a scientist and creative: I need to engage in both to be balanced and fulfilled. - a self-published author of two (and counting) books. Memoirs of a Reluctant Archaeologist was first published in... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Chris Carolan

Chris Carolan

Chris Patrick Carolan is an author, editor, and hovercraft enthusiast, originally from Glasgow but now based in Calgary, Alberta. He writes steampunk, horror, fantasy, and science fiction, though he has also been known to turn to crime to make ends meet. Crime fiction, that is. His... Read More →
avatar for Valerie L. King

Valerie L. King

Valerie L. King is a member if the Imaginative Fiction Writers Association (IFWA) and Calgary Crime Writers. She has some published short stories and is currently writing an urban fantasy series as well as several non-fiction books. Her passions are music, art, and volunteering with... Read More →
avatar for Jonathan Sean Lyster

Jonathan Sean Lyster

independent author, Heuronic Books
Jonathan Sean Lyster likes to wrap his head around strange nows and possible futures. His novels include the science fiction thriller "Oblivion's Wake" and the Armageddon Boys urban fantasy comedy series. His short stories have appeared in "On Spec," "Analog," and "Storyteller". A... Read More →
avatar for Kevin Weir

Kevin Weir

I began my work in film before becoming an author of page, stage, and screen. A fan of fantastical worlds, I found a way to channel my chaotic energies into wild yarns, taking readers on unforgettable journeys. My debut novel, Endless Hunger, was praised as a "riveting, genre-blending... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Kananaskis 2

4:00pm MDT

Pacing: making your book a sprint, not a marathon
Sunday August 18, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Agents, editors and readers want 'pacey' stories, but exciting, unputdownable writing isn't just a chain of fights, chases and sexy banter. Writers use emerging character, chapter structure, and interwoven problems to propel a story from beginning to end. Bring your current WIP to this interactive workshop where we tackle pace and get your story race ready.
Speakers
avatar for Jaima Fixsen

Jaima Fixsen

Jaima Fixsen is one half of the brain behind Audrey Blake, the co-writing team of USA Today and internationally best-selling novels The Surgeon's Daughter and The Girl in His Shadow. A self-published author of five historical fiction novels, Jaima's first crime thriller will be published... Read More →
Sunday August 18, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm MDT
Fireside
 
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