I’m thrilled about this rich, juicy, officialized, WorldCon record 14-item program they have lined up for me at this year’s WorldCon 80 in Chicago, ChiCon 8. Feeling like a heavy hitter! Norwescon had me on for 13, so this might be a record paneling high for my whole convention career. For virtual attendees, my reading will be broadcast over Airmeet.

A mix of central topics and delightful diversions, I’m also honored to be sharing panels with childhood bookshelf hero Tamora Pierce, Seanan McGuire, Todd Gallowglas, Jeffe Kennedy, KM Herkes, and an entire solid pantheon of creative luminaries. Yes, someone at my local venue called me a luminary, and I’m still glowing over it. I also suspect that my reputation now precedes me, and someone may actually be reading my books.

SCHEDULE:

Death Be Not Proud: Character Demises That Killed Us
Description
Many deaths of beloved characters may propel story, but often they can feel squandered or haphazard. Simultaneously, well-written deaths rip our hearts out every time. Is there a “right” way to exit a character? Are there wrong ways—like “fridging”? Experts will look at how gender and race tends to influence how individuals are killed in speculative TV shows and movies, and examine what sorts of shows show death in all of its gory details, while others let us assume someone has died without showing anything.
Space/Time
Crystal Ballroom B Thursday, September 1, 2022, 1:00 PM CDT

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Terraforming and Alien Life
Description
If we terraform a planet, what happens to the living things that evolved there? Would an “Earth-like” planet have living things we could live alongside? How might Earth life integrate into an alien ecology? This panel will contemplate the ecological impacts of making another planet more Earth-like.
Space/Time
Regency Ballroom D Thursday, September 1, 2022, 4:00 PM CDT

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The Hero’s Journey for All Genders
Description
Modern hero journeys are not created equal. Male heroic journeys often start with a scrappy underdog who comes into his own, while modern women’s heroic journeys hone in on their being acknowledged for power they already possess. How do journeys between male, female, and nonbinary characters differ? How is race a factor? How are they different in modern TV and film representations than pre-1990s? Are these gendered journeys mere cliché? What are some recent and historical examples that break the mold, and how does that change how they are perceived?
Space/Time
Grand Hall L Friday, September 2, 2022, 11:30 AM CDT

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Story Time—Science Fiction
Description
Attendees will vote on a Science Fiction story to be read aloud, followed by a craft.
Space/Time
Comiskey Friday, September 2, 2022, 2:45 PM CDT

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Walking in Platforms and Heels
Description
Many current fashions, as well as those from across media genres, feature characters soaring on heels, wedges, or platform shoes. If you are not experienced in the ways that your center of gravity, gait, and balance change when wearing tall shoes, it can be intimidating to try for the first time. In this workshop, bring a pair of shoes that you would like to practice walking in and our facilitator will guide you through the basics, as well as guiding you through some practice exercises. Folks of all gender identities are welcome to participate in this workshop.
Space/Time
Randolph 2 Friday, September 2, 2022, 7:00 PM CDT

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Fandom Talks: Books
Description
Do you have a favorite book or series that you love to talk about? We will collect ideas throughout the day into a jar. Then, with the help of some special guests, we will choose some topics and hear from everyone about their favorite books in fandom!
Space/Time
Comiskey Saturday, September 3, 2022, 12:45 PM CDT

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Story Time—Fantasy
Description
Attendees will vote on a Fantasy story to be read aloud, followed by a craft.
Space/Time
Comiskey Saturday, September 3, 2022, 2:45 PM CDT

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Supporting Genderqueer, Nonbinary, and Trans Friends and Fans
Description
While some fannish spaces are welcoming for genderqueer, nonbinary and trans folks, many people whose gender identity doesn’t align with cultural norms still receive intrusive questions or are treated as curiosities and information sources rather than as fans. Gender-nonconforming panelists discuss pitfalls for cisgender folks to avoid, ways to support gender-diverse friends and acquaintances in fandom, and hopes for the future of fannish spaces.
Space/Time
Randolph 2 Saturday, September 3, 2022, 5:30 PM CDT

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Table Talk – Eva L. Elasigue
Description
Eva L. Elasigue writes the fantasy space opera trilogy Bones of Starlight. Also a writer in other forms, she’s a conceptual and actual adventurer with varied creative interests.
Space/Time
Crystal Foyer Sunday, September 4, 2022, 10:00 AM CDT

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Reading – Eva L. Elasigue
Description
Virtual Reading – Eva L. Elasigue
Space/Time
Airmeet Readings Sunday, September 4, 2022, 1:00 PM CDT

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Fandom Talks: SFF Anime and Comics
Description
Let’s have a conversation about SFF anime and comics with some special guests who know a lot about these topics. We will collect ideas all day long and make a jar that we can pick out of for some conversation starters!
Space/Time
Comiskey Sunday, September 4, 2022, 2:45 PM CDT

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Superhero Action Poses
Description
Liven up your day with invigorating poses inspired by comic book superheros and villains! Non-traditional movement activity, for all skill levels and abilities.
Space/Time
Grand Hall GH Monday, September 5, 2022, 10:00 AM CDT

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Autographing – Eva L. Elasigue
Description
Autographing – Eva L. Elasigue Note: Autographing allows a maximum of 3 items per trip through the signing line.
Space/Time
Autographing Monday, September 5, 2022, 11:30 AM CDT

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The Super Scientists of the Multiverse Panel
Description
The super scientist is a popular trope across comics of all genres. Who have been the greatest successes in this area? Have there been any stand-out failures? Is it possible to write a true “super genius” scientist archetype without reducing them to an arrogant villain in waiting? Can intellect be celebrated without vilification?
Space/Time
Randolph 3 Monday, September 5, 2022, 1:00 PM CDT

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