And Now For Something Completely Different

My apologies to Monty Python for borrowing their phrase, but it's perfect for describing DragonCon. (Actually, Terry Gilliam and another writer for Monty Python were at the con, but we didn't get to see them.) This is one of largest science-fiction/fantasy conventions in the country, and it's always a ball. For those of you who don't know, Chris is an avid writer of fantasy and science fiction, with four fantasy novels in print and a three-part science-fiction/satire serial in audio-book format (see the previous blog for info on his new book from Dragon Moon Press, Scimitar Moon). Also, Anne is getting in on the action as co-author with Chris on The Cornerstone Trilogy: Book 1 (Zellohar) came out earlier this summer. We've attended lots of conventions to sell the books (here's Chris at his booth), and DragonCon is one of our favorites. It's held in Atlanta, Georgia, every Labor Day weekend, with venues filling the downtown Hilton, Hyatt, Marriott, and Sheraton hotels.

One of the great things about DragonCon is the energy...and the views. Tens of thousands of people attend, and probably half of them are in costume. Some are simple, some elaborate; if you have a Facebook page, you can see pictures of some of the great costumes at this link. On Saturday morning, they shut down several blocks of streets in downtown Atlanta for a costume parade, always well-attended, with just about every science-fiction, fantasy, and anime character represented. For example, they have whole squadrons of Star Wars storm troopers, as well as Darth Vaders and Jedi knights. All weekend, people wear their costumes around, and there are areas in each hotel specifically for photographing those in costume. For Lord of the Rings fans, there was a totally awesome Sauron, shown here with Anne. He really was that tall.

Chris participated in several panels at the con, which he really enjoys doing for the interaction with other writers and publishers, as well as guests and fans. Book sales went well, and lots of previous customers returned to find out what new books had had. It's so gratifying when someone comes up and says that they love your work! We met up with our friends, Joe and Kim, from Tampa, whom we miss greatly, and Chris got to meet his Dragon Moon Press editor and cover artist. All in all, a great time!