Contents The Writers’ League of Texas On behalf of everyone here is a statewide nonprofit that supports at the Writers’ League of Texas, writers, both published and not yet Meet the Editors...... 4 published, across Texas and beyond. welcome to the 25th annual With more than 1400 members and Meet the Agents...... 5-7 counting, our programming includes Agents & Editors Conference. in-person and online classes, a Meet the Presenters...... 7-8 summer writing retreat, Project WISE We get excited about every year’s conference, but this one is special to us. For 25 years, (presentations in public schools), we have been bringing together people from all aspects of the book-making process. This Meet the Exhibitors ...... 9 and Texas Writes (workshops in rural libraries). For conference is and always has been designed as an opportunity to get inside the world more information, visit the WLT’s website at www. of publishing and to connect with the terrific professionals and authors who are making Genre Sessions ...... 10 writersleague.org. American literature more exciting and vibrant than ever. Opening Session ...... 11 To that end, we want to highlight some of the roles these professionals play and what they’ll be talking about Board of Directors this weekend. Keynote Luncheon ...... 12 Rodney Sprott, President Evelyn Palfrey, Vice President Agents and editors Keynote Reception ...... 13 Anna Marie Dempsey, Treasurer Many of you will talk with an agent or editor one-on-one during a consultation, pitching your work and getting Marc Hess, Secretary immediate feedback. But the conference also offers many opportunities to get an insider’s perspective on timeless Friday Program Sessions ...... 10 Betty Lew Bewley questions about publishing: What do agents and editors look for in manuscripts? How do manuscripts get pitched, Richard Cunningham bought, sold, and become books? What do writers need to know about this process? You can learn answers by Saturday Program Sessions ...... 10-14 Chip Dameron attending panels and presentations and by chatting with agents and editors informally during general sessions. Sunday Program Sessions ...... 15 Michael Hurd Authors Terry Sherrell Austin has a rich and diverse literary scene, and it will be on display during the conference. During panels and Consultation Fast Facts...... 16-17 Carlotta Eike Stankiewicz presentations, learn from award-winning and bestselling authors working in a variety of genres. There will be Gina Panza Woodruff authors with dozens of books to their name and debut authors who not so long ago were figuring out how to Conference Fast Facts ...... 18 Mia Zozobrado get their books read and published. Take this opportunity to pick their brains and walk away with a new favorite book (which will be for sale through our bookseller, BookPeople, the largest independent bookstore in Texas). Dining, Culture, and Nightlife ...... 18-19 Staff Other publishing professionals Hyatt Regency Austin ...... 19 Becka Oliver, Executive Director It’s easy to focus on agents and editors, but the number of people involved in a book’s success stretches far Michael Noll, Program Director beyond those two individuals. At the conference, you’ll meet publicists, freelance editors, event organizers, and Anti-Harassment Policy ...... 20 Jordan Smith, Member Services Manager literary journal editors (including from American Short Fiction, recently named the #8 best journal in the country, Kelsey Williams, Administrative Assistant ahead of the famed Paris Review). Sara Kocek, Contest Coordinator All programs and presenters are subject to change. This Samantha Babiak, Annie Flores, Interns Your fellow attendees project is funded and supported in part by grants from the As you write and publish, and continue to do so, your peers will come from the writers who are starting out, just National Endowment for the Arts and Texas Commission Volunteers as you are now. Begin building your literary community! on the Arts and in part by the City of Austin through the Russell Ashworth, Gloria Bankler, Pamela Camosy, Economic Development Department/Cultural Arts Division, We hope you’ll join us for our Keynote Luncheon featuring Alexander Chee, and our Keynote Reception, featuring Andrea Carrera, Hailey Clement, Marcela Contreras, believing an investment in the Arts is an investment in memoirist Melissa Radke. We also hope you’ll join us for a closing luncheon on Sunday. Three big days with more Terry Freeman, Erica Hairston, Heather Holland, Lucy Austin’s future. Visit Austin at NowPlayingAustin.com. than 350 people in attendance. It’s time to start coloring in your writing future. Lane, Maureen Lomo, Sherry Lowry, Susan Paine- Keesey, Barbra Rodriguez, Joanie Smith, Kelly Weimert, Bradley Wilson

Please join us in congratu- lating the 2018 Writers’ League of For their generous support of our programming, the Writers’ League of Texas 611 S. Congress Avenue, Suite 200 A-3 Texas Manuscript Contest Winners & Writers’ League of Texas would also like to thank Michael Noll Austin, Texas 78704 Finalists, many of whom are joining Program Director 512-499-8914 us here this weekend. writersleague.org @WritersLeague You’ll be able to spot them by the Scribe blog: WritersLeagueofTexas.wordpress.com blue ribbons they’re wearing. Cover design: Anne Stevenson See page 25 for the complete list.

2 3 Meet the Editors Meet the Agents

John Byrd Vivian Lee Tess Callero Arielle Datz Cinco Puntos Press Little A, Amazon Publishing Curtis Brown, Ltd. Dunow, Carlson, & Lerner John Byrd is the managing editor of Vivian Lee is an editor at Little A, Tess Callero represents young adult Arielle Datz started as an intern at Cinco Puntos Press, which publishes Amazon Publishing’s literary fiction and adult fiction manuscripts, as Dunow, Carlson, & Lerner in 2011. She from its offices at the center of the and narrative nonfiction imprint. Her well as select nonfiction projects. then worked in the foreign rights de- universe (El Paso, Texas, in case your map is out of date.) list includes Matthew Salesses’ The Hundred-Year Flood, She welcomes all YA submissions but tends to gravitate partment at WME, followed by two years at the Elizabeth He lives nearby with his wife and family. Cinco Puntos Viet Dinh’s After Disasters (PEN/Faulkner Finalist), Har- towards stories involving friendship, romance, or sus- Kaplan Literary Agency. She returned to DCLA in 2015. Press focuses on the U.S. / Mexico border region, the old Schechter’s Hell’s Princess, Naima Coster’s Halsey pense. On the adult side, Tess is interested in commercial She is looking for fiction (mostly adult, but is open to Southwest and Mexico but also ranges out, exploring Street and Natalia Sylvester’s Everyone Knows You Go and upmarket women’s fiction, mysteries/thrillers, and young adult and middle grade), both literary and com- different possibilities. Notable authors include fiction Home. She is interested in language and character- romance. She has a soft spot for anything involving food, mercial. In nonfiction, she is looking for essays, uncon- writers Dagoberto Gilb, Benjamin Alire Saénz, and Rene driven literary fiction dealing with relationships and sports, or Hollywood. Her nonfiction interests include ventional memoir, pop culture, and sociology. S. Perez II; nonfiction authors include Gary Cartwright identity. For nonfiction, she is looking for personal mem- pop culture, business, cookbooks, humor, biography, and Beto O’Rourke; and picture book authors/illustrators oirs, investigative journalism, and anything in popular self-help, and food narrative projects. Tess is also the Adriana Domínguez include Xelena González and Keith D. Shepherd. science. In both genres, she is interested in the intersec- Social Media Director at Curtis Brown. Full Circle Literary tion of race/class/gender/ethnicity. Casey Kittrell Terra Chalberg Adriana Dominguez has worked as Ex- James Melia ecutive Editor at HarperCollins Children’s University of Texas Press Chalberg & Sussman Books and Children’s Reviews Editor at Casey Kittrell is an editor at the Univer- Flatiron Books Terra Chalberg represents a range of Library Journal’s Críticas magazine. She has performed edito- sity of Texas Press where he acquires James Melia previously worked at fiction and nonfiction writers, includ- rial work for both children and adult publishers and is a pro- books about food, music, Texas, an- Doubleday before joining Flatiron ing Victoria Fedden, author of This Is fessional translator. Adriana has a long trajectory of publishing thropology, and archaeology. He is co-editor of the anthol- Books, where he edits and acquires Not My Beautiful Life; Margaux Fragoso, author of the New underrepresented authors and illustrators and welcomes sub- ogy Down Time: Great Writers on Diving. upmarket commercial fiction, narrative nonfiction, York Times and international bestseller Tiger, Tiger; Eliz- missions that offer diverse points of view. On the children’s and pop culture. Notable books he has edited include abeth Isadora Gold, author of The Mommy Group; Lori Ost- side, she represents fiction and narrative nonfiction as well The People We Hate at the Wedding by Grant Ginder lund, author of Barnes & Noble Discover selection After the as author/illustrators. On the adult side, she seeks narrative Finding Your Way Around (an Entertainment Weekly Summer Must-Read), James Parade; Andrew Porter, Flannery O’Connor Award-winner nonfiction and pop culture titles written by authors with Rebanks’s The Shepherd’s Life (which was named one and author of In Between Days; Melissa Radke, author rock-solid platforms. the Hyatt Regency of the top ten books of the year by Michiko Kakutani), of Eat Cake. Be Brave.; Alex Taylor, author of The Marble All breakout rooms are on the first floor in the main part and Marc Maron’s Waiting for the Punch. James recently Orchard; and Glenn Taylor, author of A Hanging at Cinder Cherise Fisher of the hotel and the consultations and pitch lab are on the published Ron Stallworth’s memoir Black Klansman, the Bottom. Wendy Sherman Associates 17th floor. The general session, receptions and luncheons basis for the forthcoming film produced by Jordan Peele Cherise Fisher has shepherded several are in the Zilker Ballroom, on the first floor of the Zilker and directed by Spike Lee. Jennifer Chen Tran authors to nationally bestselling and wing near the parking garage. Bradford Literary Agency award winning status over the course Jennifer Chen Tran represents both of her twenty-five year publishing career. As a literary fiction and nonfiction. She was pre- agent, she is interested in working with novelists who are viously an associate agent at Fuse committed storytellers, memoirists that uncover the diver- Thank you to our Panelists, Moderators, Facilitators, and Emcees Literary and served as counsel at The New Press. She sity of human experience, and nonfiction writers who are Wendi Aarons, Salima Alikhan, Robert Ashcroft, Dalia Azim, Juli Berwald, Betty Lew Bewley, Sindya Bhanoo, Donna Janell counsels her clients on how to expand their platforms experts in their field. Bowman, Paige Britt, Christopher Brown, Samantha M. Clark, May Cobb, Carolyn Cohagan, Brian Contine, Laura Creedle, Richard and improve on craft, and she works collaboratively with Cunninham, Kate Winkler Dawson, Jennifer duBois, Colleen Devine Ellis, Nicky Drayden, Abby Fennewald, Marika Flatt, her clients throughout the editorial and publication pro- Connor Goldsmith Jason Gallaher, Meg Gardiner, Amy Gentry, Walt Gragg, Charlotte Gullick, Jess Hagemann, James L. Haley, Bethany Hegedus, cess. Her ultimate goal is to work in concert with authors Fuse Literary Marc Hess, Isobella Jade, Donna M. Johnson, Jack Kaulfus, Anne Keene, Levis Keltner, Sara Kocek, Vanessa Lee, Liana LeFey, to shape books that will have a positive social impact on Before becoming an agent, Connor Stina Leicht, Nikki Loftin, Alison Macor, Marshall Ryan Maresca, Jedah Mayberry, Allison Grace Myers, Jason Neulander, Stephanie the world—books that also inform and entertain. She Goldsmith spent a year as a full- Noll, Maya Perez, Rene S. Perez II, John Pipkin, Benjamin Reed, Adeena Reitberger, Nettie Reynolds, Tatiana Ryckman, Richard is looking to sign authors from diverse or marginalized time intern and relief assistant in the Santos, Patrice Sarath, Paige Schilt, Rebekah Schwarz, Chaitali Sen, José Skinner, Maya Payne Smart, Greg Leitich Smith, Brittani backgrounds. commercial film and television department at Abrams Sonnenberg, Mary Helen Specht, Suzy Spencer, Rodney Sprott, Carlotta Eike Stankiewicz, Rachel Starnes, Natalia Sylvester, Artists Agency. He is passionate about narrative fiction Sherry Thomas, Typewriter Rodeo, Tex Thompson, Deb Olin Unferth, Olga Vilkotskaya, Emma J. Virján, Julie Wernersbach, across all media as a vehicle for social progress. Bradley P. Wilson, Tracy Wolff, Michael Yang

4 5 Meet the Agents

Wendi Lulu Gu Eric Myers Sarah Phair transformative coming-of-age experience, or features multicultural characters or unique voices. In nonfiction, Janklow & Nesbit Associates Myers Literary Management Trident Media Group she is interested in memoirs, pop culture, and history. In Wendi Lulu Gu interned with chil- Eric Myers authored three books Sarah Phair spent two years learn- science fiction and fantasy, she is looking for richly built dren’s book agent Brenda Bowen at with St. Martin’s Press and has been ing from and assisting two domestic worlds to become immersed in and stories that explore Sanford J. Greenburger Associates and an agent since 2002. His clients in- agents at Trident Media Group be- what humanity is like—or could be like. continued working there as a literary assistant after clude Chris Grabenstein (Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s fore being promoted to audio agent, and then to a sales graduation. She soon began representing her own pic- Library), Lydia Kang (Control, Quackery, and A Beautiful agent in Trident’s foreign rights department. Now, Sarah is ture books, middle grade, young adult, and adult fiction Poison), Seth Rudetsky (My Awesome/Awful Popularity building her own client list. She is interested in all women’s titles with a special interest in girl power, family relation- Plan), Miriam Davis (The Axeman of New Orleans), and fiction, literary fiction, and narrative nonfiction. She is most Meet the Presenters ships, and the immigrant experience, and has contin- Patrice Banks (The Girls’ Auto Clinic Glove Box Guide). He attracted to stories that are thoughtfully plotted and explore ued working on such books at Janklow & Nesbit. Most of specializes in YA, middle grade, historical fiction, thrill- different aspects of lesser known experiences. all, she likes stories that root for the underdog. ers, and most nonfiction, including memoir that comes Matthew J. Hefti is the with a strong platform. Grace A. Ross author of A Hard and Heavy Thing. He was born in Canada and grew up in Sarah Levitt Regal Hoffman & Associates Rachel Orr Wisconsin. After 9/11, he visited the Aevitas Creative Management Grace A. Ross is interested in literary Armed Forces recruiter. He then spent Prospect Agency Sarah Levitt represents critically-ac- fiction that experiments with form 12 years as an explosive ordnance claimed fiction and nonfiction writers. Rachel Orr represents both authors and speaks to the current cultural disposal technician. He deployed twice to Iraq and twice Her list includes journalists, academ- and illustrators in projects ranging climate; historical fiction; international narratives; and to Afghanistan, once to Iraq as an EOD team member and ics, historians, scientists, and musicians, among others. from picture books through YA. She dynamic plots that bridge genres. In nonfiction, she is the remaining three tours as an EOD team leader. While Sarah is most interested in narrative nonfiction in the areas previously worked for eight rewarding years at Harper- looking for socially and politically conscious narratives, enlisted, he earned a BA in English and an MFA in Creative of popular science, big ideas, history, humor, pop culture, Collins Children’s Books and uses those editorial skills to especially those that engage with cultural conversations Writing. memoir, and reportage, in addition to voice-driven literary help prepare her clients’ work for submission. Her clients about gender, race, and class in an accessible way, but include Kit Alloway (the Dream Walker series), Samantha she’s also drawn to popular science, biography, cultural fiction with a bold plot and fresh, imaginative characters. Isobella Jade is the author M. Clark (The Boy, the Boat and the Beast), Cori Doerrfeld theory, and memoir. She’s excited by strong female and underrepresented of Almost 5'4", a modeling memoir (The Rabbit Listened), Emma Wunsch (The Movie Ver- voices, the strange and speculative, and projects that ig- first written on the display comput- sion), and Kim Zarins (Sometimes We Tell the Truth). nite cultural conversation. Jeff Silberman ers at the Apple Store in SoHo when Folio Literary Management she was without her own computer Sharon Pelletier Kristina Moore Jeff Silberman began his career as an at the time. She followed Almost 5'4" The Wylie Agency Dystel, Goderich & Bourret entertainment attorney and navi- with her ongoing graphic novel digital series Model Life, a lifestyle podcast and the YA novel Careful. Her story of Kristina Moore specializes in literary Sharon Pelletier oversees digital proj- gates the film and television worlds striving to beat the odds has been featured in The New fiction and narrative nonfiction, and ects and social media at Dystel, God- as well as publishing. His interests are wide, his passions York Times, The New York Post, The New York Daily News, is particularly interested in reportage, erich & Bourret in addition to growing run deep, and the books he represents cut a wide swath: Publishers Weekly, The Los Angeles Times, Glamour, Sev- history, biography, science, sports writing, and arts and cul- her own list. She is especially seeking upmarket fiction, in- narrative nonfiction, memoir, science and technology, enteen, Sirius Radio, BBC and others globally. tural criticism. She also represents authors’ estates. cluding unexpected suspense fiction; smart, complex wom- history, social issues, sports, the animal kingdom, literary en’s fiction; and hearty, unforgettable book club fiction. On fiction, upmarket fiction, and more. He seeks books that in Dana Murphy the nonfiction side, Sharon is eager for compelling, fierce some way leave us different than we were before, and he Lindsey Lane earned narrative nonfiction by journalists and experts, and emerg- works closely with all of his authors. her MFA in Writing for Children and The Book Group ing voices with a growing platform who can speak to pop Young Adults from the Vermont Col- Dana Murphy focuses on literary culture, feminism, sports, social justice, and/or religion. In all Susan Velazquez lege of Fine Arts. Her debut novel fiction and voice-driven nonfiction. categories, she particularly encourages submissions from JABberwocky Literary Agency Evidence Of Things Not Seen is a She is interested in adult and YA fic- marginalized writers. “unique, powerful novel,” said Francisco tion that feels surprising and immersive and smart narra- Susan Velazquez is the assistant to Stork, author of Marcelo and the Real World. Publishers tive nonfiction about pop culture, social issues, and critical Eddie Schneider and Joshua Bilmes Weekly said that it “offers a gripping and genre-bending theory. She is always looking for a sense of humor, diverse and manages audio rights at JAB- mosaic.” Lindsey is also the author of the award-winning and underrepresented perspectives, and characters that berwocky Literary in addition to representing her own picture book and iTunes app Snuggle Mountain, illustra- stick in your thoughts long after the story is finished. clients. Susan generally gravitates towards any story tions by Melissa Iwai. that details a complicated family dynamic, illustrates a

6 7 Meet the Presenters Meet the Exhibitors

VISIT OUR EXHIBITORS THROUGHOUT THE WEEKEND TO LEARN ABOUT GREAT OPPORTUNITIES AND SERVICES. Melynda Nuss is a mem- Richard Santos teach- ber of the State Bar of Texas, magna es English at Cedars International cum laude graduate from Princeton Academy in Austin and writes book University, a graduate of the Uni- reviews for Kirkus Reviews. His work Austin Community College Mayborn Literary Nonfiction Conference versity of Chicago Law School, and has been published in The San An- Creative Writing Department Organized by the Frank W. Mayborn Graduate Institute has an M.A. and Ph.D. in English tonio Express News, The Huffington A two-year degree program open to all writers in of Journalism, University of North Texas. literature from the University of Texas at Austin. She Post, The Texas Observer, Kirkus Magazine, and The multiple genres; online and face-to-face. themayborn.com Distance, Theatre and the Public Voice is the author of Rumpus. He’s a member of the National Book Critics austincc.edu/crw 1750-1850. Circle and PEN America. In a previous career, Richard Word Nerd Crafts worked for some of the nation’s top political consulting The Authors’ Assistant Hand-crafted, unique literary-themed crafts, such Kris Pauls leads Disrup- firms, national campaigns, and labor unions. Established in 1996, The Authors’ Assistant has over as Scrabble Tile earrings, upcycled journals, and tion Books, a hybrid publisher based in two decades of expertise in guiding writers through the tote bags. NY and Austin. She shepherds authors Tex Thompson is an publishing process from idea to book launch, including wordnerdcrafts.com and their books through the evolving instructor for the Writers Path at manuscript editing and preparation, book design and landscape of today’s publishing indus- SMU and the author of the inter- production, and public relations. Writers in the Field try. She has worked on titles ranging nationally-published Children of authorsassistant.com A hands-on, gloves-off, first-of-its-kind research from business and history to cookbooks, real estate, and the Drought series. Tex is also the experience for writers. children’s literature, including several New York Times and founder and “chief instigator” for Ann Kellett Editing writersinthefield.com Wall Street Journal bestsellers. Before leading Disruption WORD—Writers Organizations ‘Round Dallas. When I Polish. You Shine. I bring 30+ years of award-winning, Books, Kris served as managing editor of Greenleaf Book she’s not leading the charge at home in Dallas, Tex full-time editing experience, with happy clients around Group, a publisher focused on independent authors; and as brings her particular brand of “red-penthusiasm” to The Writer’s Workshop the world. director of design and production for Dana Press, which is conferences, conventions, and workshops all over the Services in development and line editing, synopsis annkellettediting.com the books and journals division of the Dana Foundation, country. and query review, and manuscript evaluations propel helmed by William Safire. independent authors from inspiration to publication. David Eric Tomlinson Blue Cubicle Press workshopwriter.com Blue Cubicle Press, home of the award-winning and John Pipkin won the New was born and raised in Oklahoma, internationally recognized literary journals Workers Write! The Writing Barn York Center for Fiction First Novel educated in California, and now lives and The First Line, is dedicated to giving voice to writers 7.5 wooded acres devoted to writers: group and private Prize, the Massachusetts Center in Texas. His first novel The Midnight who realize their words may never pay the mortgage retreats, weekend and week long intensives, book for the Book Novel Prize, and the Man was listed as a 2017 top crime but who are too stubborn to stop trying. We’re here to launches and other literary themed parties. Retreat. Texas Institute of Letters Stephen debut by Austin’s independent book- support artists trapped in the daily grind. Create. Celebrate at The Writing Barn. Turner Prize for First Novel with his store BookPeople and was shortlisted for both the PEN bluecubiclepress.com thewritingbarn.com debut novel Woodsburner. His second novel The Blind Southwest Book Award and the Texas Institute of Letters Astronomer’s Daughter was published by Bloomsbury in Sergio Troncosco Award For Best Work Of First Fiction. 2016. John teaches at UT-Austin and in the low-residency David has contributed to the Bread Loaf Writers’ Con- BookPeople Yellow Bird Editors MFA program at Spalding University in Louisville, KY. ference and teaches craft classes for Writing Workshops The largest independent bookstore in Texas, offering Manuscript critiques, content editing, developmental Dallas. books on writing and getting published as well as books editing, query letter critiques, and more. by conference panelists, presenters and keynotes. yellowbirdeditors.com bookpeople.com

A Big Thank You to Ricki Ratliff and her outstanding group of timers for the one-on-one consultations: Complete bios for our visiting agents, editors and Stephan Baley, Joan Barton, Jana’ Busby, Tiffo Carmichael, Tania DeGregorio, Candee Edwards, Rhonda Fuquay, Molly Guzzino, presenters are available at the 2018 A&E Confer- Tiffany Harelik, Stacee Harris, Caleb Heine, Linda Leal, Alexander Lewis, Anna Kosta-Rodriguez, Bernadette Nason, Martin ence page at the Writers’ League of Texas website. Salinas, Tammi Schissler, Russell Staker, Anne Stoll, Jo Virgil

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Conference Sessions 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Saturday, June 30 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. WELCOME RECEPTION CONSULTATIONS Join WLT staff and conference faculty for Opening Session All agent and editor consultations will take Friday, June 29 opening announcements and recognition of place on the 17th floor in Foothills I & II. Check in at the registration table in the Foot- 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. the 2018 Manuscript Contest Winners and Featuring Vice President, Grand Central Publishing Finalists, starting at 4:45 pm. Then, kick off hills lobby. Arrive no more than 15 minutes CHECK IN AND INFORMATION the conference with snacks, socializing, and Beth deGuzman before your scheduled appointment. For Pick up your badge and conference materials Typewriter Rodeo. details, see pages 16-17. when you arrive on Friday. Saturday Keynote Zilker Ballroom Foothills I & II (17th floor) Luncheon tickets can be purchased ($50 on- site), subject to availability. Big Bend A-C (11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.) Saturday, June 30 10:15 to 11:00 a.m. Zilker Ballroom Foyer (4:00 to 5:00 p.m.) BREAKOUT SESSIONS 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. CHECK IN AND INFORMATION BUSINESS EXHIBIT HALL Pick up your badge and conference materials. Where Publishing Begins: Submitting Big Bend and Hill Country Foyers Keynote Luncheon tickets can be purchased to Journals and Magazines ($50 on-site), subject to availability. Panelists: Levis Keltner, Adeena Reitberger, 1:00 to 3:15 p.m. Zilker Ballroom Foyer (8:00 to 10:00 a.m.) Grace A. Ross | Moderator: Sindya Bhanoo GENRE SESSIONS Big Bend Foyer (10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) Hill Country A See box below for details. 8:00 to 9:00 a.m. BUSINESS BREAKFAST 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Writing a Great Synopsis Get your day started right with coffee, breakfast PITCH LAB Panelists: Jennifer Chen Tran, Sarah Phair, tacos, and other refreshments. Meet fellow writers Susan Velazquez | Moderator: Bradley P. Wilson Practice your pitch with other conference in your genre at designated tables. Beth deGuzman is VP, Digital and Paperback Pub- Hill Country B attendees. A great opportunity to build com- Zilker Ballroom lisher at Grand Central Publishing, where she over- munity and prepare for the conference’s many sees eBook publications and trade paperback and networking opportunities. Arrive at 3:30 for 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. mass market programs, and acquires fiction and CRAFT some quick guidelines and then spend the rest EXHIBIT HALL nonfiction. She works with James Patterson and Turning Your Worldbuilding Into Drama of the time practicing your pitch. Michael Connelly; sits in meetings with David Bal- Panelists: Connor Goldsmith, Patrice Sarath, Foothills II (17th floor) Big Bend and Hill Country Foyers dacci, Sandra Brown, Harlan Coben, and Nicholas José Skinner, Sherry Thomas | Moderator: Sparks; and is proud to be attending this conference Jason Neulander with her author and fellow Texan Melissa Radke. Hill Country C FRIDAY GENRE SESSIONS Because she is a graduate of UT Austin, you should Join fellow writers in your genre to learn tips from published authors and industry professionals for pitching projects successfully. expect to hear her yell “Hook ‘em, Horns!” all week- end long. Also, her favorite things begin with the CRAFT 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. 2:15 to 3:15 p.m. letters B and C: the Beatles and barbeque, Cheetos Making Characters Stick GENERAL FICTION Recommended for attendees MEMOIR Recommended for attendees writing memoir and crossword puzzles. in a Reader’s Mind writing novels that don’t fit in the other breakout catego- or personal stories. Hill Country A&B Panelists: Charlotte Gullick, Vivian Lee, ries. Hill Country A&B 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. Kristina Moore, Jeff Silberman | Moderator: MYSTERY / THRILLER Recommended for Zilker Ballroom SCIENCE FICTION / FANTASY Recommended attendees writing novels that include mystery, thriller or Rebecca Schwarz for attendees writing novels for the Sci-Fi or Fantasy suspense elements. Hill Country C Hill Country D markets. Hill Country C HISTORICAL FICTION Recommended for attendees BUSINESS PICTURE BOOK / MIDDLE GRADE / YOUNG writing novels with historical settings. Hill Country D 10:00 to 10:15 a.m. ADULT Recommended for attendees writing books for Real Talk: How Agents Spend Their Time ROMANCE Recommended for attendees writing love BREAK young readers. Hill Country D Panelists: Arielle Datz, Sarah Levitt, stories, whether category romance or women’s fiction. Enjoy refreshments while visiting the Eric Myers | Moderator: Samantha M. Clark NONFICTION Recommended for attendees writing Big Bend D conference exhibitors. Big Bend general nonfiction, narrative or practical, NOT memoir. Big Bend and Hill Country Foyers Big Bend D

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Saturday, June 30 Conference Sessions BUSINESS Saturday, June 30 Real Talk: When Is Your Book Ready to Query? Keynote Luncheon 11:00 to 11:15 a.m. Keynote Reception Panelists: Terra Chalberg, Wendi Lulu Gu, BREAK “On Becoming an American Writer” Sharon Pelletier | Moderator: Allison Featuring memoirist Enjoy refreshments while visiting the Grace Myers Featuring Award-Winning and Bestselling Author conference exhibitors. Big Bend Melissa Radke Big Bend and Hill Country Foyers Alexander Chee 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. 11:15 a.m. to 12 noon BREAKOUT SESSIONS BREAKOUT SESSIONS BUSINESS BUSINESS The State of Kids’ Lit Today Before Publication: Setting Yourself Up Panelists: Donna Janell Bowman, Laura for Success Creedle, Adriana Dominguez, Rachel Orr | Panelists: John Byrd, Jess Hagemann, Moderator: Vanessa Lee Bethany Hegedus, Nikki Loftin | Moderator: Hill Country A Melissa Radke is the author of Levis Keltner the memoir Eat Cake. Be Brave. Hill Country A CRAFT Her online videos have reached more than 57 million people Keeping Your Novel’s Plot Moving on her Facebook page alone CRAFT Panelists: Christopher Brown, Nicky Drayden, in a little over a year. Radke’s What Makes a Memoir Stand Out? James Melia, Chaitali Sen | Moderator: “Upside Down French Braid” (Besides a Good Story) Shannon Perri video has close to 10 million Alexander Chee is the author Panelists: Juli Berwald, Donna M. Johnson, Hill Country B views and her “Red Ribbon” of the novels Edinburgh and James Melia, Suzy Spencer | Moderator: video has been viewed over 100 million times across the national bestseller The Queen Charlotte Gullick BUSINESS multiple websites and media outlets. A Texan born of the Night and the essay Hill Country B Building Your Readership on the and bred, Radke spent 15 years of her life in Nashville, collection How To Write An Web and IRL Tennessee, where she worked as a studio session singer for Recording Artists after graduating from Autobiographical Novel. He is BUSINESS a contributing editor at The Panelists: Tess Callero, Isobella Jade, Belmont University. Since becoming a parent, she Working with Publicists, Marketers, New Republic and an editor at Paige Schilt, Carlotta Eike Stankiewicz | moved her family back to her East Texas hometown large at VQR. His essays and and Booksellers Moderator: Nettie Reynolds because the barbecue is better and the babysitting stories have appeared in The New York Times Book Panelists: Brian Contine, Colleen Devine Ellis, Hill Country C is free. Review, T Magazine, Tin House, Slate, Guernica, and Abby Fennewald, Marika Flatt | Moderator: Out, among others. He is winner of a 2003 Whiting Maya Payne Smart BUSINESS 5:30 p.m. Award, a 2004 NEA Fellowship in prose and a 2010 Hill Country C The Editor/Author Relationship Zilker Ballroom MCCA Fellowship, and residency fellowships from the Sponsored by Thompson & Knight Panelists: John Byrd, Vivian Lee, Rene S. MacDowell Colony, the VCCA, Civitella Ranieri and Foundation CRAFT Perez II, Natalia Sylvester | Moderator: Amtrak. He is an associate professor of English and Admission included with conference registration. Making Your Plot Twists Truly Thrilling Stephanie Noll Creative Writing at Dartmouth College. Light refreshments provided. Cash bar. Attendees Hill Country D Panelists: Robert Ashcroft, May Cobb, of the Keynote Reception will receive a compli- 12:15 to 1:45 p.m. Meg Gardiner, Jeff Silberman | Moderator: mentary advance copy of Melissa Radke’s memoir Zilker Ballroom Mike Yang BUSINESS Eat Cake. Be Brave. Melissa will sign copies after Advance registration required and includes lunch and Hill Country D Real Talk: Writing a Query that her keynote. a complimentary copy of Alexander Chee’s book How Stands Out from the Pack to Write an Autobiographical Novel. Alexander will Panelists: Connor Goldsmith, Sarah Levitt, sign books after his keynote. Dana Murphy, Susan Velazquez | Moderator: Wendi Aarons Big Bend

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Conference Sessions 4:15 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, July 1 10:30 to 10:45 a.m. BREAK BREAK 7:30 to 9:00 a.m. Enjoy refreshments while visiting the Enjoy refreshments while visiting the 3:00 to 3:15 p.m. BREAKFAST conference exhibitors. conference exhibitors. BREAK Big Bend and Hill Country Foyers Get your day started right with coffee, baked Big Bend and Hill Country Foyers Enjoy refreshments while visiting the treats, and other refreshments. conference exhibitors. 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Big Bend and Hill Country Foyers 10:45 a.m. to 12 noon Big Bend and Hill Country Foyers BREAKOUT SESSIONS BREAKOUT SESSIONS 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

3:15 to 4:15 p.m. CRAFT EXHIBIT HALL CRAFT BREAKOUT SESSIONS Turning Historical Details into Story Big Bend and Hill Country Foyers Busting Stereotypes in Modern Panelists: Cherise Fisher, James L. Haley, Crime Writing BUSINESS Greg Leitich Smith, Tex Thompson | 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon with David Eric Tomlinson and Matthew Which Shelf Will Your Book Sit On? Moderator: Dalia Azim AGENT & EDITOR CONSULTATIONS J. Hefti | Emcee: Richard Cunningham Finding Your Place in the Market Hill Country A Hill Country A&B Please check in at the Consultations Regis- Panelists: Tess Callero, Stina Leicht, Sarah tration Desk in the Foothills lobby no more Phair, Julie Wernersbach | Moderator: BUSINESS than 15 minutes before your scheduled BUSINESS Robert Ashcroft Real Talk: What to Expect from appointment. Building Your Own Publishing Team Hill Country A Your Debut Book Foothills I & II (17th Floor) with Kris Pauls | Emcee: Rodney Sprott Panelists: Beth deGuzman, Jason Gallaher, Hill Country C BUSINESS Marshall Ryan Maresca, Natalia Sylvester | 9:15 to 10:30 a.m. Making a Nonfiction Proposal Moderator: Salima Alikhan BREAKOUT SESSIONS BUSINESS Stand Out Hill Country B Developing an Author Brand and Image Panelists: Casey Kittrell, Kristina Moore, BUSINESS Dana Murphy | Moderator: Alison Macor CRAFT with Isobella Jade | Emcee: Marc Hess Creating and Using Your Copyright Hill Country D Hill Country B “I Was Hooked When…” The Craft with Melynda Nuss | Emcee: Richard of Catching a Reader’s Eye Cunningham CRAFT BUSINESS Panelists: Adriana Dominguez, Adeena Reit- Hill Country A&B Establishing and Developing Real Talk: Self-Publishing, Indie Publishing, berger, Tatiana Ryckman, Julie Wernersbach | Convincing Characters and Big House Publishing Moderator: Ben Reed CRAFT with John Pipkin | Emcee: Betty Lew Bewley Panelists: Carolyn Cohagan, PJ Hoover, Hill Country C Hands-on Reasearch for Writers on a Budget Jack Kaulfus, Jedah Mayberry | Moderator: Big Bend with Tex Thompson | Emcee: Rodney Sprott Sara Kocek CRAFT Hill Country C 12:15 to 1:45 p.m. Hill Country C Memoir or Fiction: Deciding How CLOSING LUNCHEON Best to Tell Your Story BUSINESS BUSINESS Join the WLT staff for a closing meal, a Panelists: Terra Chalberg, Mary Helen Getting Your Synopsis Ready recap of the weekend’s highlights, and Understanding a Book Contract Specht, Brittani Sonnenberg, Deb Olin for Competitions, Agents, and Editors thoughts about where you go from here. Panelists: Jennifer Chen Tran, Cherise Fisher, Unferth | Moderator: Maya Perez Advance registration required. Note: If you Eric Myers, Melynda Nuss | Moderator: Hill Country D with Richard Santos | Emcee: Marc Hess did not register for this luncheon in advance, Bethany Hegedus Hill Country D tickets will be available for purchase ($25), Hill Country D BUSINESS subject to availability. CRAFT You’ve Got an Agent. Now What? Zilker Ballroom BUSINESS First Pages That Will Hook Readers Panelists: Arielle Datz, Wendi Lulu Gu, The Agent/Author Relationship Grace A. Ross | Moderator: Olga Vilkotskaya with Lindsey Lane | Emcee: Betty Lew Bewley Panelists: Samantha M. Clark, Amy Gentry, Big Bend Big Bend Sharon Pelletier, Rachel Orr | Moderator: Richard Santos Big Bend

14 15 Consultation Fast Facts Conference Tips & Tricks

Where Agent/Editor Consultations TIPS FOR CHATTING WITH AGENTS AND EDITORS: Be Take copious notes! Panelists and presenters will All consultations will be held in Foothills I & II on the 17th The agents and editors you’re meeting with are expect- respectful of their time and the time of your fellow share lots of information and advice that you can floor of the Hyatt. Only one elevator goes to the 17th floor. ing a verbal pitch during your one-on-one meeting. conference attendees. Keep your pitches short (we recom- use — now or later in your career as a writer. The others take you to the 16th floor. From there you can Come prepared with your short and succinct pitch and be mend one minute maximum). If someone says, “Yes, send Leave the outside world behind. Between sessions, take the stairs up one flight to the Foothills lobby. ready to elaborate, share additional details, and answer it,” quit while you’re ahead! Say thank you, ask how they’d don’t check in with your business or personal email. questions when prompted. like it sent, and then excuse yourself. Instead visit with writers and other guests. Scheduling Take some time to think of a few questions you might Please remember that agents and editors have been lis- take a If you purchased consultations with an agent or editor in ask so that, should an agent or editor tell you early in the tening to pitches all day (in a setting where they’re able If you accept a business card from someone, moment to jot down a note about your conversation advance of the conference, you received an email notice session that your project doesn’t sound like a good fit for to really listen and consider what you’re saying and give so you’ll remember later. with the date and time of your appointment(s) and the them, you’re able to take full advantage of your time in feedback). Do not go into the rest of the conference events name(s) of the agent(s) or editor(s) you’re meeting with. the most productive way possible. expecting the same personal time and feedback. A great Approach other attendees and ask them what they If you did not receive this information, please come see a use of post-panel interludes and receptions is to ask ques- Please, do NOT bring a manuscript or extensive hand- are writing. Make friends! staff person at the WLT Information Desk. tions about the industry, what agents/editors like to see outs with you to your appointment. It is highly unlikely in queries and submissions, and recent books they have Take advantage of having a book signed by the that the agent or editor you’re meeting with will want Checking In loved. Try to include multiple people in the conversation keynote speakers. It’s a great way to meet a fellow to carry materials away with them (remember, most of Please check in at the Consultations Desk in the Foothills rather than talking with them one-on-one. After listening writer in person. our faculty are visiting from other cities and feel the lobby on the 17th floor no earlier than 15 minutes to someone for a few minutes, move onto another con- same way you do about packing extras in their return Be open-minded. You might arrive at the confer- before your appointment is scheduled to start. versation. Keep a running list of who you’ve talked to luggage). Plus, handing something off at a conference ence with certain assumptions or preconceived IMPORTANT: If you are late and miss your consultation, and what they said; after the conference, follow up with means you’re not giving the submission its full due, the notions about the faculty, the industry, and your you will NOT be given another appointment. a query (if they seem like a potentially good match) that way you would with a well-written query letter sent (fol- own project. Leave that stuff at the door for a bit references their remarks. lowing specific submission guidelines) after the event. and be open to what comes. Length of Appointments BE WILLING to talk to agents and editors who aren’t on Keep in mind, tastes change and many factors can in- Relax, have fun, and mingle. Get to know the All consultations will be 10 minutes long. A volunteer your “must meet” list. Paths to publication are rarely neat fluence what genres or categories an agent or editor is moderators, panelists, and the other conference will be on hand to time your session and will cue you and direct. Editors especially will be a great gauge of what currently looking for. The bios found in this program are attendees. You never know who the person next to as your time nears its end. Once you receive that cue, ideas and stories the marketplace is looking for. You can a good starting point for gauging someone’s interests, but you might be. please wrap up your meeting promptly. Because other also ask them how they acquire projects and what hap- nothing is set in stone. If the person you meet with says he attendees are scheduled after you, ending on time is pens after a project is acquired. Be “book sociable.” At the receptions, chat with or she does not represent your type of book, use that time EXTREMELY important. Occasionally consultations will agents, editors, and authors about the thing that to gather information on what you might do to make your DON’T FORGET that you will also be surrounded by more get off schedule; please be patient if that is the case. brings us together: books. Take this opportunity to project more saleable. You can also talk about other ideas than 70 published authors who have won awards, sold learn about a book you should check out or connect you have or ask for suggestions for other agents or pub- thousands of books, and been in your shoes, trying to with someone about a book you both love. lishers that it might be a fit for (especially if you’re talking get published. There will also be marketers, publicists, to an agent who works in a large agency and might have booksellers, and other publishing professionals. Say hello, Don’t forget to visit the exhibitor tables when A Guide to the colleagues who specialize in what you’re writing). ask questions, and pick their brains. Take every chance to programming is not in session. Interacting with make connections and build knowledge that can serve you exhibitors opens the door to additional networking Conference Panels Finally, this is a great opportunity to ask about the state throughout your career. opportunities. of publishing today, current market trends, and other BUSINESS These panels and presentations pull general questions you might have. Come prepared and Don’t expect agents or editors to ask for or agree to back the curtain on the publishing industry and use your time well and wisely. take your manuscript or book on the spot. The vast the process that turns manuscripts into books on majority of submissions are done electronically. the shelf. Panelists and presenters include agents, Networking VERY IMPORTANT: If an agent or editor asks you editors, reviewers, publicists, and booksellers. Agents, editors, and other special guests will attend the Wel- to submit pages, be sure to get their contact in- come Reception on Friday evening and the Keynote Recep- CRAFT These panels and presentations dig into formation and ask them how they’d like to receive tion on Saturday evening. In addition, our faculty will lead the essential tools of our trade as writers. Panelists our panelists, presenters, and speakers materials. presentations or sit on panels throughout the conference. Support include agents, editors, and award-winning/ (and find your next favorite book) by visiting the Book- Agents and editors welcome brief, informal pitches and will And, when in doubt, find a WLT Staffer or Volunteer bestselling authors. Use these panels to get an People table in the exhibitor area. You can also find an be glad to talk with you throughout the weekend. Remem- and let us know how we can improve your conference outside-the-workshop perspective on craft and online bookstore with more titles at the link sent to you ber that pitching in this format should be more casual and experience. tips on hooking readers. in pre-conference mailers. much quicker than in your one-on-one consultation.

16 17 Conference Fast Facts

The following Conference events require advance Dining Culture and Nightlife reservations: Keynote Luncheon (Saturday), Closing Restaurants within walking distance of the hotel: Bat Watching The Congress Avenue Bridge next to Luncheon (Sunday), and Consultations. the Hyatt hosts the largest urban bat colony in North Aussie’s Bar & Grill, 306 Barton Springs Rd. America. Each evening around sunset the Congress Burgers, beer, and beach volleyball. Any tickets to these events that remain will be available Avenue bats emerge from the crevices of the bridge. For at the WLT Information Desk. Bennu Coffee, 515 S. Congress Ave. up-to-date emergence times call 512-327-9721 Ext 3. Fair-trade coffee house and a local hangout for writers. Hike and Bike Trail Enter from the back of the Hyatt General Conference Badges El Alma, 1025 Barton Springs Rd. Regency and stretch your legs on the 10-mile Roy and Badges Your name badge allows you entrance to all Inventive Mexican cuisine & cocktails in a chic setting. Ann Butler trail surrounding Lady Bird Lake. Make a general conference events and panels. Please wear your splash with a choice of rentals including canoes and Freebirds World Burrito, 515 S. Congress Ave. badge at all times during conference hours. Door paddle boards. About the Hyatt monitors will be checking badges at each session. Made-to-order burritos, tacos, and salads. Just across Regency Austin Conference badges will also be checked at all consul- Home Slice Pizza, 1415 S. Congress Ave. Second Street and the Warehouse District tations and general sessions. You cannot attend any Authentic NY-style pizza by the slice or pie—an Austin from Lady Bird Lake is one of Austin’s top entertain- ment districts with even more dining and music! ATM An automated teller machine is in the hotel conference-related event without it. If you lose your staple with a great patio. lobby near Starbuck’s. name badge, go to the Information Desk to request Walk a few blocks south on Hopdoddy Burger Bar, 1400 S. Congress Ave. South Congress (SoCo) a replacement. The Business Center (second floor) has computers, Created to express the perfect union between burgers Congress Avenue and you’ll be in the heart of funky shopping, more great restaurants, and live music. Internet access, and a printer available to guests Guests Family or friends staying with you cannot and beer—puts the WEIRD in Austin burgers! 24 hours a day. High-speed wireless Internet is attend conference sessions. All conference events Step outside the Hotel San Jose, 1316 S Congress Ave. Looking for alternative transportation? complimentary. Internet service in guest rooms require paid registration. Popular bar/lounge with outdoor seating. Hyatt for a ride in a pedicab! These fit Austinites work for is included. Parking Attendees staying overnight at the Hyatt tips and will take you to whatever destination you desire. Lucy’s Fried Chicken, 2218 College Ave. Check-Out Check-out time is 11 a.m. receive discounted self-parking at $10 per day; check Want to do the pedaling yourself? There are several plac- Upscale versions of Southern staples, with a deck & patio. with the hotel about using the card-access lot. es that will rent you a bicycle for the day. Ask the Hyatt Parking Self-parking is available to Conference Conference attendees who are not staying at the hotel Sandy’s Hamburgers, 603 Barton Springs Rd. concierge for more information. attendees for $10 per day. Valet parking is $18 per will also receive discounted self-parking at $10 per day. Old-fashioned, locally owned burger and frozen day or $31 overnight (discounts do not apply). Discount parking passes will be available daily. custard stand. For details, see “Parking.” Valet parking is NOT discounted. Schlotzsky’s, 218 S. Lamar Blvd. Note: Please allow extra time for parking if you’re Breakfast, deli, salads, pizza, bakery, ice cream. Restaurants and Bars staying off site. Starbucks Threadgill’s World Headquarters, 301 W. Riverside Dr. (first floor) Home-style Southern cooking, enormous portions of 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily vegetables, and live music on weekends. SWB/Southwest Bistro Thundercloud Subs, 201 E. Riverside Dr. (second floor) Fast, fresh and healthy subs, soups, and salads. Breakfast: 6 to 11 a.m. Whataburger, 601 Barton Springs Rd. Saturday 6 a.m. to 12 noon A Texas staple. The name says it all: What. A. Burger. Sunday 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. Zax Pints & Plates, 312 Barton Springs Rd. Monday–Friday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Classic American Bistro fare with Mediterranean influ- Marker 10 Spirits & Cuisine Bar ences and local and seasonal beer selections. (first floor) Friday 2 p.m. to 1 a.m. Saturday 2 p.m. to 1 a.m. Sunday 12 noon to 11 p.m. Happy Hour: Sunday through Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m.

PHOTOS COURTESY AUSTIN CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 18 19 Anti-Harassment Policy Notes

The Writers’ League of Texas is dedicated to providing a harassment-free conference experience for everyone, regardless of gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, race, age, or religion. We do not tolerate harassment in any form.

The WLT’s Anti-Harassment Policy in its entirety was shared with all conference registrants ahead of the event, can be found on the conference pages of the website, and copies are available at the WLT Information Desk on request.

Conference participants violating the Anti-Harassment Policy may be sanctioned or expelled from the confer- ence without a refund at the discretion of the conference organizers.

We’d Love to Hear Your Thoughts

We’ll be sending you a survey shortly after the conclusion of the conference. Please take a few minutes to send us your honest feedback. This information will help us as we turn our attention to the 2019 A&E Conference. And, of course, you can also send us a separate note to [email protected], or give us a call at 512-499-8914.

Follow us on Twitter @writersleague Share your tweets as #WLTCon2018 Like us at facebook.com/ WritersLeagueOfTexas.

20 21 Notes

22 23 Notes

24 25 The Austin Public Library Friends Foundation is pleased to sponsor the 2018 Agents and Editors Conference Join us for a variety of literary events and programs coming to your branch library at Central cultural series features author events, musical performances, film screenings, cooking demonstrations, and gallery exhibitions at the Austin Central Library.

New Fiction Confab brings America’s most prominent early and mid-career authors to Austin’s libraries for writing workshops, readings, and discussions.

The Mayor’s Book Club is a citywide reading campaign that fosters a shared community experience through reading and discussion of the year’s book selection.

Badgerdog Creative Writing Workshops bring professional writers into libraries, schools, and community spaces to lead workshops with people of all ages and skill levels and provides opportunities for publication. Workshops include spring break and summer camp programs for youth, school-based programs, and adult programs held in library branches.

The Austin Public Library Friends Foundation supports the Austin Public Library by increasing public awareness about the library and its importance to the community, and by enhancing library collections, programs, and facilities. www.austinlibrary.org

Inprint Margarett Root Brown READING S ER IES

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie Jennifer Egan Khaled Hosseini Annie Proulx MORE THAN Margaret Atwood Louise Erdrich Kazuo Ishiguro Karen Russell Paul Auster Jeffrey Eugenides Edward P. Jones Salman Rushdie Anne Carson Jonathan Safran Foer James McBride George Saunders Sandra Cisneros Jonathan Franzen Viet Thanh Nguyen Gary Shteyngart 350E GREAT WRIT ERS SINC Michael Cunningham Carlos Fuentes Gregory Pardlo Colm Tóibín 1980 Anthony Doerr Lauren Groff Ann Patchett Mario Vargas Llosa including winners of 9 Nobel Prizes 62 Pulitzer Prizes 56 National Book Awards 15 Man Booker Prizes 19 U.S. Poets Laureate INPRINTHOUSTON.ORG

26 27 Austin Film Festival & Writers Conference EMBARK ON A October 25 – November 1, 2018 JOURNEY OF USE PROMO CODE WLT25 FOR $25 OFF A CONFERENCE self-discovery OR PRODUCERS BADGE

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14 Annualth Are you not ENTERTAINED Real people. Real stories. Real storytelling.?

July 20 - 22, 2018 | Grapevine, Texas

nrique offa st e s G rd e H r W . e y B h d p n Keynote a i

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Register at themayborn.com.

28 29 CRAFT. BUSINESS. COMMUNITY.

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IN THE LONE STAR STATE MILITARY ACTIVE or

VETERAN full-time; 15 years or older

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