In just two months, I will be attending my local book convention – Readers Take Denver. The event supports the charity Julie’s Friends which is a non-profit foundation dedicated to extending the lives of as many family furbabies as possible.

What is a Book Convention

A book convention is an event that offers a variety of events, such as author signings, readings, panels, and workshops.

Signings

I have only been to this one event, and it was my first. I can’t speak for other conventions, but this one has hundreds of authors. There are some big names and some rising stars. In fact, this year, they are having an entire specialized time set aside for the rising start authors. The bigger the author, the longer the line to see them.

This event uses a ticketing system that goes through WhatsApp to keep people informed of when their number is up. This worked out well last year, and helped keep the lines for the most popular authors under control.

There is an item limit to keep the lines moving. You can only have five things signed at one time. If you have more things for an author to sign, you have to get back in line and wait your turn again. I didn’t personally run into any issues with this last year.

Readings

I have not experienced a reading. I am guessing that it is an author reading a part of their book and then doing a Q&A session, much like you would see at a smaller signing event.

Panels

Panels vary from event to event. Last year I attended one that was a full on Q&A session with an author. It was interesting, but I misunderstood what it was supposed to be. I had never read any of the books, or heard of the author, so I wasn’t as in to it as the others were.

I also attended one that was build a book boyfriend that was several authors talking about different options, both positive and negative, and building their “perfect” book boyfriend.

My favorite was one with multiple dark romance authors. It was mostly just them sharing stories about their writing, research, and lives.

Many events, this one included, also offer panels for the authors to attend. Things that can help them hone their craft. These could also be considered to some as workshops.

Other Activities

This event, as I’m sure others do, has many extra fun experiences. Last year there was a movie screening and a red carpet gala.

This year there will be a masquerade and a speakeasy party, as well as another movie screening. There is also a murder mystery dinner, and even a paint and sip event.

I’m looking forward to doing a few of these. Last year I was too overwhelmed to do any of the extras. This year I’m going to fight my anxiety and make it happen.

Tips and Tricks for the Event

To Bring

• Post it notes
• Phone battery pack or charger
• Comfy shoes
• Rolling cart
• Folder (for if you buy stickers and art prints and don’t want them to get bent and jumbled in the cart)
• Extra sharpies and pens
• Refillable water bottle
• Priority Mail box if you’ll be picking up lots of books you will need to send home
• Snacks and lunch if you’re not buying at the event
• If you are coming to an event in Colorado, there are some extra things to remember and to bring with you
  • LOTS of water
  • some extra iron
  • allergy medication
  • chapstick
  • a waterproof coat (works for rain and snow, you never know what the weather is gonna be)
  • lotion (your skin will dry fast, especially is you’re from a more humid climate)
  • CAUTION WITH ALCOHOL AND TOBACCO (And drügš)!!! The elevation difference WILL make a difference. You WILL get drunk/high faster as your body will not be used to the lack of oxygen.
  • If you’re not used to our elevation, you might need extra breaks – take them, everyone understands
  • WATER – I know this is on here already, but it is really very important here in Colorado.

Helpful Tips for You and the Authors you Visit

• Many event have maps of all the table locations so you can highlight who are your definite MUST SEE authors and organize your way around the room – do this before so you can make the most of your day
• Pre-order as much as you can. It speeds things up for you and the authors. Plus, you’ll have at least some idea of what you’ll be hauling home
• Have a post it note with your name on it for any books you want signed
  • Last year, I bought the event’s signature book and used a post it note on every one of the authors that were must see for me, and one at the beginning of each letter change. It made it easier to find the correct pages when I was at the table.
• Remember that eveyone is there to enjoy themselves. Take a breath
• Take a break if you need one, you won’t be the only one

What to Wear

During the day, comfort is key. There is a lot of walking happening. In Colorado the weather in April can be just about anything, so layers are key.

For the parties, most people go all out. I’m going to try to dress up. This means finding something to wear. I have a couple of ideas, but I might be asking for help over on my Facebook page, if you want to help a girl out in the next couple of week.