The eagerly awaited  Awesome Con Book Fair, proudly presented by St. Martin’s Press in partnership with Loyalty Bookstores and Lost City Books, ignited the passion of book lovers and literary enthusiasts at this year’s Awesome Con in Washington DC over the weekend of June 16-18, 2023. This extraordinary celebration of literature and storytelling offered a unique platform for fans to meet and interact with their favorite authors. With an extraordinary lineup of author signings, captivating panels, and engaging discussions, the Awesome Con Book Fair delivered an unrivaled experience for all lovers of the written word.

Highlighted Author Signings:

  1. Terry Brooks: Legendary fantasy author Terry Brooks, renowned for his iconic Shannara series, graced the Awesome Con Book Fair in 2023 with his presence. Fans had the exclusive opportunity to meet the master storyteller, get their books signed, and delve into the realms of his vivid imagination.
  2. E.K. Johnston: Bestselling author E.K. Johnston, celebrated for her enthralling young adult novels such as “Ahsoka” and “Queen’s Shadow,” was in attendance. Fans engaged with her during book signings, gained insights into her writing process, and embarked on a journey through her thought-provoking narratives.
  3. Justina Ireland: Acclaimed author Justina Ireland, known for her groundbreaking works like “Dread Nation” and “Star Wars: The High Republic,” was present to connect with readers and share her experiences as a writer. Attendees had the opportunity to discover the inspirations behind her powerful storytelling and have their books signed by this literary luminary.
  4. Mia Tsai: Rising star Mia Tsai, author of the widely praised memoir “Diorama,” joined the Awesome Con Book Fair in 2023. Fans engaged in intimate conversations with the author, gaining insight into her writing process, and explored the compelling themes that resonate within her work.
  5. Constance Sayers: Constance Sayers, the talented author of the captivating novel “The Ladies of the Secret Circus,” was available for signings and discussions. Attendees unraveled the enchanting mysteries woven throughout her book and had the opportunity to delve deeper into her imaginative worlds.
  6. David Ebenbach: David Ebenbach, the celebrated author of thought-provoking works such as “How to Mars” and “The Artist’s Torah,” was present to engage with readers and offer unique perspectives on his craft. Attendees explored his works, joined him at book signings, and heard engaging discussions about literature and creativity.

Captivating Panels and Engaging Discussions:

The Awesome Con Book Fair featured an array of fascinating panels and discussions, covering various aspects of the literary world. These include:

  1. “All Grown Up”: Authors David Ebenbach, EK Johnston, Mia Tsai and Constance Sayers discuss the science fiction, fantasy, and pop culture that shaped their childhoods and made them into the writers they are today.
  2. “Ask an Author”: Interested in the approach that well-known authors took when they were learning to write? What resources did they use to get from where they began to now? This conversation between David Ebenbach, Mia Tsai, Justina Ireland, and EK Johnston and moderated by Terry Brooks, will help you in your quest to write, whether you’re just starting out, an experienced writer, or a published author.
  3. “I Need a Hero”: What does it take to lead a story? To be a Main Character, but not just any MC, one you actually care about! Whether a hero, anti-hero or villain, your main character can make or break a story. Join authors David Ebenbach, Constance Sayers, and Mia Tsai as they discuss how they created their MCs and what makes them THE character for their stories.
  4. “Other Worlds”: How do you first create a world? What are the building blocks needed to withstand the twists and turns authors put their characters through? What’s it like diving into a previously established universe and making it your own? Join authors Terry Brooks, EK Johnston, David Ebenbach, and Justina Ireland as they discuss the creation and destruction of fantasy and science fiction worlds.
  5. “A Twist on the Classics”: From zombies and witches to elves and sweeping epics, join authors Justina Ireland, Mia Tsai, and Constance Sayers as they discuss how they broke down classic monsters, heroes, and tropes and built them back up in their stories.
  6. “Resistance is the Way”: A thought-provoking discussion on literature as a vehicle for resistance, examining how authors tackle important social and political issues through their work.
  7. “Exploring Shannara with Terry Brooks”: Terry Brooks is a legend of epic proportions! Terry Brooks published his first novel, The Sword of Shannara, in 1977. He has written over forty bestselling novels, as well as adaptations of the movies Hook and Star Wars: The Phantom Menace and a memoir on his writing life titled Sometimes The Magic Works. Join the master of high fantasy for a spotlight and Q&A. This conversation will be moderated by Shawn Speakman.

The Awesome Con Book Fair presented by St. Martin’s Press in partnership with Loyalty Bookstores and Lost City Books was a real page turner for book lovers and literary enthusiasts. Don’t miss next year’s Book Fair, and stay tuned to our social media, newsletter, and website for information about what literary legends will be attending Awesome Con 2024.