The schedule for Boskone 56 is available.
Please see the schedule apps for updates to the schedule after Thursday, February 14, 2019.
Free Friday Afternoon Programming:
Programming on Friday, February 15th is (free to the public) from 2:00-6:00 pm. Memberships are required after 6:00 pm on Friday and throughout the rest of the convention.
Personalize Your Schedule
There is so much to do this year that you may want to download the mobile scheduling app for Grenadine or KonOpas. Instructions are available on Boskone’s Going Mobile page.
Register Today!
Buy your Boskone 56 membership today and don’t miss a moment of fun at this year’s convention. Full weekend memberships as well as day rates are available.
If you have any questions about programming or would like to share your program ideas, please contact our Program Committee at program@boskone.org.
We look forward to seeing you at Boskone for another great convention!
Friday
2:00 PM (free to public)
Moments in Time: The New Doctor Who
William Hayashi, Gerald L. Coleman, Isadora Deese, Lauren Roy, Rob Greene (M)
Burroughs · 50 min · Panel
The new season of Doctor Who has taken on a number of sweeping transformations, rather than tackling one small change at a time. What ties them together is the exploration of significant historical events on an intimate scale. How does this focus serve the new Doctor? How do these historical adventures affect the mythology of the show? And how might we see the show evolve in the future?
2:00 PM (free to public)
The Hopeful Future in Science Fiction
James Patrick Kelly (M), Muriel Stockdale, Gene Doucette, Fonda Lee, Steve Miller
Harbor II · 50 min · Panel
Science fiction can tend toward grim futuristic realism that is either technology-based or post-apocalyptic. Are these the futures we want to write for ourselves? Or read? In light of all the possibilities, where can we find the bright and shining moments? What current fiction gives us hope for the future? And how can we stay positive while still being realistic?
2:00 PM (free to public)
The Worst Program Item Ever …
Priscilla Olson (M), Janice Gelb, Bob Kuhn
Griffin · 50 min · Panel
And, oh, there are some doozies! Our panelists share all the bad things that can happen on a panel rolled into one. Come and watch perfectly dreadful panelist behavior, excruciating audience “participation, ” remembrances of those strange and awkward moments, and all manners of dreadful things that could possibly go wrong … or right, depending upon your point of view. And no naming names … Well, maybe a few.
2:00 PM (free to public)
Dragonslair Closed
Galleria – Dragonslair · 230 min · Children – DragonsLair
2:00 PM (free to public)
Tournament Demos and Rules Q&A
Michael Sharrow, Will Mui
Harbor I – Gaming · 600 min · Gaming
Make sure you’re up-to-date with our new Tournament rules by attending an info session in the Game Room. Tournament games this year are Patrician: Towering Glory; Istanbul with the Mocha and Baksheesh expansion; Lords of Waterdeep with the Skullport and Undermountain expansions; and Ticket to Ride. These games will be demoed throughout Friday, plus Saturday morning, in the Game Room. (You MUST have a working knowledge of the rules to play in the Tournament.)
2:00 PM (free to public)
The Wild East Game Co. Demos
Brian Bollinger, Jill Bollinger
Harbor I – Gaming · 480 min · Gaming
With award-winning games like Slap Down!, Ill-Tempered Tikis, Pie Rats of the Carob Bean Farm, Lightning Dice, Chroma Cards, and Poop Deck: the Card Game, you’ll be sure to get yer game on! New this year, these games are available for sale in the Game Room!
3:00 PM (free to public)
Welcome to Boskone (I)
Brenda Noiseux (M)
Independence · 50 min · Docent Tour
New to Boskone? Or returning after a long absence? Join us for a short discussion about what Boskone has to offer, learn some of the convention lingo, and meet new people. Then join our docent for a stroll around the con.
3:00 PM (free to public)
The Other Others in Urban Fantasy
Elwin Cotman, Nicholas Kaufmann, Clea Simon, Leigh Perry (M), John Langan
Harbor II · 50 min · Panel
Urban fantasy sections in bookstores are filled with zombies, werewolves, and especially vampires (sparkly and otherwise) almost to the exclusion of other entities. Indeed, too many times those creatures define urban fantasy. But there are a plethora of other fantastical beings from the myths and legends of Europe — and every other continent. Authors like Seanan McGuire and Laura Anne Gilman revel in the variety, using it to populate the back streets of their chosen cities. Let’s join them (and our panelists) to explore the road less traveled.
3:00 PM (free to public)
Crystal Ball Gazing: That’s Entertainment?
Muriel Stockdale, Brad Abraham, S L Huang, Brenda W. Clough (M)
Griffin · 50 min · Panel
The 20th century saw the rise of movies, radio, television, and videogames. What new entertainment forms will the future unfold? How about the feelies — Brave New World’s movies-with-added-tactiles? Or maybe digitally created actors? (Oh, wait, they’re already here.) Perhaps aroma symphonies? 4-D VR? Our panelists have holo’d back from the future with dazzling descriptions of these coming attractions.
3:00 PM (free to public)
Your Own Doomsday: Speculating on Future Catastrophes
Rebecca Roanhorse, Kristin Janz, MR Richardson, Robert V.S. Redick (M), Tonia Thompson
Harbor III · 50 min · Panel
There are lots of ways to end the world, end humanity, or end civilization. Perhaps you agree with T.S. Eliot: “This is the way the world ends … Not with a bang but a whimper.” A multidisciplinary team will tackle this grim (but enjoyable?) subject and speculate about the worlds to come … after ours ends.
3:00 PM (free to public)
Heinlein’s Juveniles
Kenneth Schneyer (M), Brendan DuBois, Ellen Asher, Michael Swanwick
Burroughs · 50 min · Panel
SF GrandmasterJack Williamson wrote of Robert A. Heinlein’s works for young adults: “[An] inspiring theme of space conquest unifies the dozen Scribner’s titles … The books, taken together, tell an epic story of the expansion of mankind across the planets of our own Sun and the stars beyond … a generally consistent story of the future conquest of space.” How are the attitudes of the 1940s and 1950s reflected (or transcended) in these stories? How do they compare to today’s YA SF? “Generally consistent” — really?
3:00 PM (free to public)
The Symbolism of Superman
Dr. Stephen P. Kelner Jr. (M), Paul Jeter, Josh Dahl, Kenneth Rogers Jr., Erin Underwood
Lewis · 50 min · Panel
Two teenagers — writer Jerry Siegel and artist Joe Schuster — first thought up Superman in 1933. Besides influences from movies, pulp SF, and comics, it’s said he’s based on Moses (a castaway orphan), Samson (an ultra-strong warrior), or the Golem (an avenger against evil). Later commenters point to Christian connections, too. What’s your favorite theory of what Superman stands for? Today, what does the Caped Crusader mean to you? And are superheroes actually new gods for the nonreligious?
4:00 PM (free to public)
Star Wars: What’s Next?
Dan Moren (M), Mur Lafferty, Julia Rios, MR Richardson, Melinda Snodgrass
Marina 4 · 50 min · Panel
The films are out — from Episode I to Episode IX, as well as several installments in between. Is this the film series we were looking for? Or should we move along, move along? Let’s come together for a holistic look at the star-spanning empire that not only redefined science fiction, but created generations of fans … who lately seem to rail against the Star Wars films almost as often as they support them.
4:00 PM (free to public)
The Life Cycle of a Book
Gene Doucette, Andrea Corbin (M), Nicholas Kaufmann, LJ Cohen, Joshua Bilmes
Lewis · 50 min · Panel
Most of us just see the finished product on the shelf. However, there are lots of little (and big) steps associated with getting the book to the store. What’s the life cycle of a book, from submission to publication? It’s not as simple as “the author writes it, then the publisher prints it.” What are the direct, indirect, and associated steps involved in the production and publication process — from editing to marketing, selling, reviewing, reprinting, and more?
4:00 PM (free to public)
Medical Ethics in the 21st Century
Robert B. Finegold M.D. (M), Paul Jeter, Julie C. Day, Frank Wu, Justin Key
Marina 3 · 50 min · Panel
As the ancient adjuration to physicians goes, “First, do no harm.” But how do modern issues around patient privacy, genetic screening, transplants, and immunotherapy jibe with the classical ideas of medical ethics? What about previously SFnal developments like recombinant RNA and gene tailoring? Or cloning? How can (should) doctors cope?
4:00 PM (free to public)
The Most Alien Aliens
James Cambias, Dr. Stephen P. Kelner Jr. (M), Jeffrey A. Carver, Laurence Raphael Brothers, Karl Schroeder
Burroughs · 50 min · Panel
How can you design a really GOOD alien? How can writers/artists imbue their creations with a genuine sense of otherness? What do our depictions of aliens tell us about ourselves?
4:00 PM (free to public)
How to Create Your Own Book Trailer
Sarah Smith (M)
Independence · 50 min · Workshop
Join author Sarah Smith for an informal workshop/discussion on book trailers. What purpose do they serve? Does your book need a trailer? How do you get one? She’ll also suggest how to find some good examples to view when making your own.
4:00 PM (free to public)
Laundering Your Fairy Tales
Jane Yolen (M), Karen Heuler, Victoria Sandbrook, Melanie Meadors, Theodora Goss
Harbor III · 50 min · Panel
The Grimm bros and Charles Perrault kept the kids captivated with lighthearted little stories featuring torture, necrophilia, cannibalism, and more. Why were the original fairy tales such very very scary tales? Let’s explore their dark undertones (and overtones). What lessons were kids supposed to learn? Are they always cleaned up for modern consumption? If children could handle the horror then, why not now?
4:00 PM (free to public)
MG or YA?
Barry Goldblatt (M), Christine Taylor-Butler, Michael Stearns, Sarah Jean Horwitz, Adam Stemple
Marina 2 · 50 min · Panel
The distinction between middle grade and young adult books may seem clear: the latter see more adult themes, unpleasant outcomes, and dystopian settings. But in actuality, younger fare has long dealt with some of these elements. Grimms’ Fairy Tales, Harry Potter, and a crop of children’s gothic horror books by John Bellairs, Lemony Snicket, Adam-Troy Castro, etc., seem to treat the age range as more of an approximation. What’s at stake here? What’s an author, agent, or publisher to do?
4:00 PM (free to public)
Dialog Workshop: You Don’t Say!
Vincent O’Neil (M)
Marina 1 · 50 min · Workshop
Author Vincent O’Neil conducts a lively workshop/discussion about creating smart and compelling dialogue, as well as about what is sometimes best left unsaid.
4:00 PM (free to public)
Shifting the Literary Paradigm
John R. Douglas, Faye Ringel (M), John Clute, Patrick Nielsen Hayden
Harbor II · 50 min · Panel
Every so often a work of literature resets our expectations, reinvigorating the genre. Think The Iliad, The Arabian Nights, Frankenstein, Brave New World, 1984, The Lord of the Rings, or Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. What’s it take to shift the paradigm? How does the field react when it happens? Are these works coming along more often? How would you go about writing one?
4:00 PM (free to public)
Hozuki’s Coolheadness (Episodes 1-4)
Carlton · 105 min · Film/TV/Media
When things go wrong in one of Japan’s many hells, Lord Enma calls upon his trusted second-in-command, Hozuki, to take care of things. With 272 hells to watch over, Hozuki is a very busy demon! See Saturday at 4:15 p.m. for episodes 5-8. (In Japanese with English subtitles.)
4:00 PM (free to public)
Mission to Planet Hexx! Game Demos
James A. Fitzpatrick III
Harbor I – Gaming · 240 min · Gaming
Mission to Planet Hexx! is a retro-style, space adventurey, board-and-card-game-in-one for 2 to 4 players, ages 10 and up, that lasts between 30 to 90 minutes. In this light- to medium-weight game, players map the galaxy with space and planet hexes as they race to collect data and be the first to complete their mission file. The game has light strategy similar to a collectible card game — plus elements of “take that!,” map building, dice rolling, and resource management.
4:30:00 PM (free to public)
Reading by James Patrick Kelly
James Patrick Kelly
Griffin · 25 min · Reading
5:00 PM (free to public)
Special Interview with The Worlds of Ursula K. Le Guin Director Arwen Curry
Theodora Goss, Arwen Curry
Marina 1 · 50 min · Interview
Theodora Goss interviews director Arwen Curry about her feature documentary Worlds of Ursula K. Le Guin. With Le Guin’s active participation, Curry followed her for a decade to document her life and work. From A Wizard of Earthsea (1968) with the Lewis Carroll Shelf Award to Lavinia (2008) with the Locus Award, Le Guin’s numerous accolades include multiple Hugo, Nebula, Locus, and World Fantasy Awards. This special interview with Arwen Curry is hosted in coordination with the Boston premiere of Worlds of Ursula K. Le Guin at the Boston SF Film Festival on Thursday, February 14. Official Trailer: Worlds of Ursula K. Le Guin from Arwen Curry on Vimeo.
5:00 PM (free to public)
Young Adult Fiction Guest Interview: Cindy Pon
Cindy Pon, Kate Elliott
Harbor III · 50 min · Interview
It’s a great time to talk with Boskone’s Young Adult Fiction Guest! Did Cindy Pon’s prize-winning YA crime eco-thriller Want, set in an alternate future Taipei, leave you “wanting” even more? Well, it’s coming! In this special interview, YA author Kate Elliott dives into the details, asking all the questions we most want to know — such as, “When is Want‘s sequel, Ruse, coming out?” Other topics could include diversity in YA, Chinese brush painting, readers’ hunger for mouth-watering descriptions of food, and how flying mopeds would be really cool.
5:00 PM (free to public)
What Should Good Fantasy Do?
LJ Cohen (M), Cerece Rennie Murphy, Joe Monti, Adam Stemple, Fonda Lee
Burroughs · 50 min · Panel
Fantasy taps into our imaginations and transports us from our everyday life. But is creating a story outside of the ordinary world enough? Is the goal only to entertain and amuse? Or is there more? What should a good fantasy do: does there have to be a moral to the story? What are the critical elements for great fantasy? And whatever is required, how can the writer make this happen? Are these factors distinct from what readers are looking for?
5:00 PM (free to public)
Editing Your Manuscript for Submission
Joshua Bilmes (M), Auston Habershaw (M)
Griffin · 50 min · Discussion Group
Join our panel of editors and agents for a discussion on what they look for in a submission. Is submitting to an agent different from submitting to an editor? Are they seeking the same or different things on first reads? Do you submit a precis, a chapter or chapters, the whole manuscript, or other material and, if so, to whom and when? How do you prepare your novel for submission? What are some tips and tricks on how to cut, embellish, or shape a manuscript?
5:00 PM (free to public)
The Enduring Mythology of Star Trek
C. DeMarco, Brianna Wu, Robert Howard, Isadora Deese, Clarence Young (M)
Marina 2 · 50 min · Panel
Star Trek has been the most visible brand in science fiction since the late 1960s. It has injected new concepts and vocabulary into society in a way no other SF work has ever done. Will that influence eventually fade away? Or will Star Trek always be with us?
5:00 PM (free to public)
My Worst Story — And Why I Wrote It
Michael Swanwick, Paul Di Filippo (M), Gerald L. Coleman, Christopher Golden, Brenda W. Clough
Harbor II · 50 min · Panel
Every writer has a story that should never have been written, and sometimes those stinkers even get published! They get written for any number of reasons. At the time, it seemed like a good idea, but then times changed … and it didn’t. Maybe it was a bet or a dare or a looming deadline. Maybe it sits in the drawer of shame, reminding you of its existence every time you accidentally stumble upon it. Let’s dust off these old stories and put them to good use in a fun and lighthearted literary therapy session in which we laugh, cry, and share how and why these literary beasts were penned into existence.
5:00 PM (free to public)
Telling Tarot Tales
Trisha J. Wooldridge (M)
Independence · 50 min · Workshop
Author and Tarot guru Trisha Wooldridge returns to lead a thoughtful workshop/discussion on the art of interweaving personal stories with Tarot and fortune-telling. What do the cards mean? How do different combinations create different interpretations? Trisha will provide a live demonstration. (Space is limited.)
5:00 PM (free to public)
The Immortal Storm: The First Worldcon
Joseph Siclari, Vincent Docherty, Tim Szczesuil (M), Steve Davidson, Geri Sullivan
Lewis · 50 min · Panel
Eighty years ago, in 1939, a group of fans held the first Worldcon, in New York City. Sam Moskowitz’s 1954 fannish history The Immortal Storm famously treats World War II as an anticlimax to the events of this convention. (NESFA Press will be offering an eBook edition of this easily excited epic.) Apart from the Futurian brouhaha, what legacy of NYCON is still visible in today’s Worldcons and regional conventions?
5:00 PM (free to public)
The Long View (of a Writing Career)
Ginjer Buchanan (M), Sharon Lee, Jeffrey A. Carver, Steve Miller, Allen M. Steele
Marina 3 · 50 min · Panel
How do you keep the fiction and art fresh after 10, 20, 30-plus years in the business? A few streaks of gray here; a few wrinkles there … but we’re still here, contributing to SF/F literature and art and the fandom that embraces them. Our panelists take a look down memory lane at their careers — and how things have changed since they were young, eager creatives, struggling to find their place in the field. Stories will be told, advice will be shared, and a few laughs (and tears?) will be shed over the good times and bad that come with walking the long road of writing.
5:00 PM (free to public)
The Perfect Short Story
Neil Clarke, Suzanne Palmer (M), James Patrick Kelly, Elizabeth Hand, Ellen Datlow
Marina 4 · 50 min · Panel
On the page, short fiction is, well, finite. But don’t you remember as much from a great short story as a great novel? Can a short story be perfect in a way a longer fiction can’t? What can you do in a short story that you can’t at greater length? Are SF/F/H short stories different from mainstream shorts in any interesting ways? What are your candidates for perfect genre short stories? What makes them so great?
5:00 PM (free to public)
Magic: The Gathering
Kaitlin R. Branch (M)
Harbor I – Gaming · 50 min · Gaming
Magic: the Gathering is a trading card game that’s been around since 1993. To new players, it can be daunting to try to understand card types, actions, and turn order. Author Kaitlin R. Branch offers a quick crash course, designed for people who, like her in the beginner days, want to understand mechanics first and then play.
5:45 PM (free to public)
Patlabor OVA (Episodes 1-3)
Carlton · 90 min · Film/TV/Media
When criminals in giant robots do their thing, it’s up to the Tokyo PD’s SV2 division to stop them. Limited budgets, inept bureaucrats, and the occasional attacking sea monster don’t make it easy, though. See Saturday at 6 p.m. for episodes 4-7. (In Japanese with English subtitles.)
6:00 PM
Agency and Free Will in Speculative Fiction
Gillian Daniels, Juliana Spink Mills (M), Rebecca Roanhorse, Greer Gilman, M. C. DeMarco
Harbor III · 50 min · Panel
Fantasy often makes use of prophecy. But when a protagonist is the prophesied one, how can they experience true conflict, risk — or agency? They can’t fail, right? Shouldn’t this deflate the reader’s interest? What happens when you have conflicting prophecies? And if we’re in a mechanistic universe, governed by the laws of physics, where is free will?
6:00 PM
The New Classics
Paul Di Filippo, Rich Horton (M), David Shaw, John Langan
Harbor II · 50 min · Panel
Some fiction soars above the rest. What are the most marvelous SF/F/H works of our current age, crafted by the most gifted geeks in contemporary speculative fiction? In other words, what’s the good new stuff? And what makes it so great?
6:00 PM
My Favorite World
Mr. Walter H. Hunt, Br Guy Consolmagno SJ (M), Leigh Perry, John Chu, Steven Popkes
Burroughs · 50 min · Panel
What fictional (or nonfictional) world would you most like to visit? Or inhabit? What makes it particularly attractive to you? Our panelists join in a lively, fun discussion of what it takes to become a preferred planet — and whether or not we need an escape plan to get back. Why do/don’t all our choices measure up? (Past, future, or alternate Earths gratefully accepted, too.)
6:00 PM
Shared-Universe Worldbuilding
Steve Miller, Lauren Roy, Victoria Sandbrook (M), David Anthony Durham, Melinda Snodgrass
Marina 3 · 50 min · Panel
Authors can cooperate in a variety of ways: co-authoring, writing a sequel to another’s work, extending/finishing a series started by another, etc. Shared worlds are purpose-built for different authors to (more or less independently) set their own stories. How do you make a sandbox for multiple writers to play in? What are some pitfalls? What prevents the world from degenerating, or tying up its authors in knots while trying to maintain mutual consistency? Let’s look at successful shared universes, and what keeps them worlds ahead of the rest.
6:00 PM
Fiction for Kids and Young Adults: Group Reading
Sarah Beth Durst (M), Sarah Jean Horwitz, Christine Taylor-Butler, Anne Nydam, Justin Key
Griffin · 50 min · Reading
Boskone presents a special group reading for lovers of children’s and young adult fiction. Our authors provide a range of stories and topics that are sure to delight and entertain!
6:00 PM
Kaffeeklatsch: Brenda W. Clough
Ms Brenda W. Clough
Galleria – Kaffeeklatsch 1 · 50 min · Kaffeeklatsch
6:00 PM
The Streaming Universe
Ginjer Buchanan, Darlene Marshall (M), Robert Howard, Darlene Marshall, Julie C. Day
Marina 2 · 50 min · Panel
Just wave your magic clicker to enter a new universe of space and time, where SF/F/H stories stream at you seemingly without end. Discovery, The Defenders, The Handmaid’s Tale, Counterpart, The Magicians, Westworld, The Expanse — which genre TV shows are more bingeworthy than cringeworthy? Where’s your favorite series headed? What printed works should become the next shining stars of the Streaming Universe?
6:00 PM
Space Force?
Alan Brown (M), Frank Wu, Allen M. Steele
Marina 4 · 50 min · Panel
The U.S. government has launched a proposal to establish a Space Force or Space Guard. How do you feel about it? Is it a great idea or not? Why? How might it affect present/future space travel and exploration? How about international cooperative attempts beyond the atmosphere?
6:00 PM
When Fans Go to Congress
Brianna Wu (M)
Independence · 50 min · Discussion Group
Join Brianna Wu, a game designer and SF/F fan, as she shares the story of her recent run for Congress in this informal conversation about politics, fandom, and getting involved.
6:00 PM
Becoming Active Bystanders
Diane Martin (M)
Marina 1 · 110 min · Discussion Group
A bystander is a person who observes unacceptable behavior. It might be something serious or minor, one-time or repeated, but the bystander knows that the behavior is unacceptable or likely to make a bad situation worse. An active bystander takes steps that can make a positive difference in that situation. This class covers the basics of active bystander action and strategies, with opportunity for discussion and practice. Training provided by the Boston Area Rape Crisis Center.
6:00 PM
Kaffeeklatsch: Marshall Ryan Maresca
Marshall Ryan Maresca
Galleria – Kaffeeklatsch 2 · 50 min · Kaffeeklatsch
6:00 PM
How a Fairy Tale Is Built, With Liz Hand
Elizabeth Hand (M)
Galleria – Dragonslair · 50 min · Children – DragonsLair
Our Guest of Honor, Liz Hand, will use a classic fairy tale to show how stories work. What are the different parts of a story, and how do they fit together? With Liz’s help, your story writing will improve by leaps and bounds!
6:00 PM
Game Room Giveaways
Michael Sharrow
Harbor I – Gaming · 360 min · Gaming
Join us in the Game Room for freebies and Door Prizes! From 6 p.m. until we run out (or get too tired!)
6:00 PM
Hatch Makerspace: Lego Robotics & 3-D Printing Demos
Liz Helfer, Corey Angelus, Chris Ernemwein
Harbor I – Gaming · 240 min · Gaming
Join us for local Makerspace favorite Hatch, from Watertown, for exciting Lego Mindstorms EV3 demos, along with live 3-D Printing demos! Free 3-D printed game item giveaways too! And more freebies!
6:00 PM
Signup for Guru of the Game Room
Michael Sharrow, Will Mui
Harbor I – Gaming · 360 min · Gaming
Tournament rules have changed this year, so be sure to check the listings. Tournament games will be demoed throughout the evening. Signups for the tournament end at noon on Saturday.
6:00 PM
Meet Up: The State of Black Science Fiction Facebook Group
Gerald L. Coleman
Galleria – Discussion Group · 50 min · Discussion Group
Join Gerald Coleman for an informal discussion focused on the popular Facebook
group The State of Black Science Fiction and visit the group online at https://www.facebook.com/groups/blackscifi.
7:00 PM
The Trouble with Time Travel
Ellen Asher, Kenneth Rogers Jr., Auston Habershaw, William Hayashi (M), Clarence Young
Harbor II · 50 min · Panel
Let’s consider the difficulties of time travel in the ever-changing multiverse. Can we change the past or not? What other interesting difficulties might real time travel present to real time travelers?
7:00 PM
Game Editing
James Cambias, Carlos Hernandez (M), Melanie Meadors, M. C. DeMarco
Marina 4 · 50 min · Panel
Games need editing too. Editing a game during the development process may be similar to editing a story, but where does that process diverge? How does game editing change depending upon the game medium? What are those points that make game editing different? Who’s involved? And how does the creator and/or publisher respond to development critiques?
7:00 PM
The Paranormal Detective
Brendan DuBois (M), Dana Cameron, Robert B. Finegold M.D., Mr. Thomas Sniegoski, Sarah Smith
Burroughs · 50 min · Panel
Literary examples of the occult detective story are legion. From sleuths in Poe’s “The Murders in the Rue Morgue” or Dracula or Lovecraft to Douglas Adam’s Dirk Gently, Charles Stross’s Bob Howard, or Jim Butcher’s Harry Dresden — all have featured in popular and captivating tales. What itch does this subgenre scratch? What makes it different from pure horror, dark fantasy, or mainstream mysteries? How does going supernatural improve these detective stories in a way that couldn’t be accomplished otherwise?
7:00 PM
Fantasy with Greek & Roman Roots
Darlene Marshall (M), Bruce Coville, Sarah Beth Durst
Marina 2 · 50 min · Panel
Hermes and Mercury. Athena and Minerva. Ares and Mars. Zeus and Jupiter. Ancient Greece and Rome contributed important roots to later European language, culture, and fantasy. Do their myths still have power today? Why? How did 20th-century fantasy authors employ these classic tales? Are we making different use of them in the 21st?
7:00 PM
Writing Your Own Lyrics
Denise A. Gendron (M)
Lewis · 50 min · Workshop
Learn how to successfully write lyrics to existing music (parodies, etc.). Be sure to bring paper and pen, and join this group workshop with musician Denise Gendron as she goes through a special set of exercises to draft lyrics for existing melodies, demonstrating effective (and not so effective) techniques.
7:00 PM
Small-Group Dynamics in Fiction
Dr. Stephen P. Kelner Jr., Br Guy Consolmagno SJ (M), Gerald L. Coleman, Bracken MacLeod, Vincent O’Neil
Marina 3 · 50 min · Panel
The social dynamics of small groups include tensions that make fine fodder for fiction. Researchers in Antarctica, members of religious communities, Martian settlers, haunted house inhabitants, starship crews — what special challenges do isolated groups face? Which stories have excelled at showing how people pick leaders, form bonds, avoid interpersonal traps, and cooperate to get stuff done? Or, of course, come apart in escalating orgies of violence?
7:00 PM
Kaffeeklatsch: Neil Clarke
Neil Clarke
Galleria – Kaffeeklatsch 1 · 50 min · Kaffeeklatsch
7:00 PM
Kaffeeklatsch: Jeffrey A. Carver
Jeffrey A. Carver
Galleria – Kaffeeklatsch 2 · 50 min · Kaffeeklatsch
7:00 PM
Going Solar
Steven Popkes (M)
Independence · 50 min · Discussion Group
Join aerospace software engineer and author Steven Popkes for a conversation about the possibilities of modern solar energy. How sustainable is it? How might we generate solar energy in the future? And are science fictional solar advances realistic?
7:00 PM
Writing Ghost Stories for Kids
Tonia Thompson (M)
Galleria – Dragonslair · 50 min · Children – DragonsLair
Kids work with author Tonia Thompson and learn how to tell a great ghost story.
7:00 PM
Reading by Robert V.S. Redick
Robert V.S. Redick
Griffin · 25 min · Reading
7:30 PM
Reading by Brett James
Brett James
Griffin · 25 min · Reading
8:00 PM
Booting the Reboot
S L Huang, Robert Howard, Jennifer Pelland, Marshall Ryan Maresca (M), Julia Rios
Marina 3 · 50 min · Panel
Do we really need all of these reboots? Does the current reboot formula work for everything? And do all these retellings steal energies (and audiences) from new creations? Our participants discuss the good and bad of the reboots we love to hate.
8:00 PM
Naming Names
John P. Murphy, Suzanne Palmer, Max Gladstone, Mr. Walter H. Hunt (M), Allen M. Steele
Harbor II · 50 min · Panel
Are characters’ names critical to the story? Just ask Charles Dickens. But naming characters can be tough. How do you find just the right one? Bad choices can undermine the storytelling; good ones can capture the reader’s imagination and memory. Let’s discuss how to craft names while avoiding naming pitfalls. Plus: can a good genre name take hold in the outside world?
8:00 PM
YA Before Hogwarts
Bruce Coville (M), Christine Taylor-Butler, Michael Stearns, Jane Yolen
Marina 2 · 50 min · Panel
Published in 1997, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone transformed the landscape for YA and children’s fiction. With Twilight and The Hunger Games it happened again, as these works helped to define the genres for the 21st century. But what was it like before The Boy Who Lived leapt upon the literary scene? What were your favorite YA novels prior to the genre’s explosion in popularity? Come get your nostalgia on, as you join our panelists in a discussion of YA published before the ’90s.
8:00 PM
Foreshadowing: The Secret of Suspense
Brad Abraham, Brett James, Cadwell Turnbull, Grady Hendrix (M), John Langan
Burroughs · 50 min · Panel
What works … what doesn’t? Besides mysterious runic poems, intriguing omens, palsied prophets, or other fantastic expository tricks, how can you preset the stage for what comes next? Is it sometimes better to skip foreshadowing altogether? When?
8:00 PM
Speculative Films for the Ages
Bob Devney (M), Gillian Daniels, Garen Daly, Elwin Cotman, Daniel M. Kimmel
Marina 4 · 50 min · Panel
Star Wars and 2001 are perennial front-runners in the list of greatest SF/F/H films of all time. Would you include The Beast from 20, 000 Fathoms, since it inspired Godzilla? The Matrix? Blade Runner? And how about non-Western films? Come ready with your roster — and your reasons — to challenge the choices of our film-buff panelists.
8:00 PM
SF/F (NESFA) Songbook Singing
Erwin (Filthy Pierre) Strauss (M)
Lewis · 25 min · Filk / Music
This classic songbook is popularly called the “Hymnal.” We’ll provide copies so everyone can join in to warm up for a weekend of fannish fun!
8:00 PM
Reading by Vincent O’Neil
Vincent O’Neil
Griffin · 25 min · Reading
8:00 PM
Reading by James Moore
James Moore
Independence · 25 min · Reading
8:00 PM
Stained Glass Art
Galleria – Dragonslair · 50 min · Children – DragonsLair
Colored gels, paper, glue; make something pretty to hang in your window.
8:15 PM
This Island Earth
Carlton · 105 min · Film/TV/Media
Scientists Rex Reason and Faith Domergue are lured to a secret research center managed by Jeff Morrow, who doesn’t quite look like an earthman. His forehead is built up so high that he must belong to a more intelligent alien race, and he’s up to something: recruiting help for his desperate planet. The couple tries to escape in a plane but it’s drawn up into a flying saucer, and we’re off to Metaluna! Scenes inside the saucer and on the alien planet are just lovely, and the threatening mutant slave is a huge, hideous insect-man! Excellent design, costuming and special effects, snappy well-paced direction by Joseph Newman, this film holds up as a good adventure story. A good B/W TV print.
8:30 PM
Concert: Batya “The Toon” Wittenberg
Batya “The Toon” Wittenberg (M)
Lewis · 25 min · Concert
8:30 PM
Reading by Isadora Deese
Isadora Deese
Independence · 25 min · Reading
9:00 PM
Trivia for Chocolate
Mark Olson (M), Priscilla Olson
Marina 4 · 50 min · Panel
How much chocolate can you collect in an hour? The MCs ask the questions, and the audience shouts out the answers. Get the correct answer first and win big kudos … plus a small wrapped chocolate.
9:00 PM
Friday Night Filk & Open Singing
Lewis · 180 min · Filk / Music
Come gather to share songs! Science-fictional or fantastic topics may predominate, but all songs are welcome. Come to sing or just to listen.
9:00 PM
Broad Universe Group Reading
C. Ambrose (M), Juliana Spink Mills, Roberta Rogow, LJ Cohen, Trisha J. Wooldridge
Griffin · 50 min · Reading
Join members of Broad Universe — a nonprofit association dedicated to supporting, encouraging, and promoting female authors of science fiction, fantasy, and horror — as they read tidbits of works and works in progress. Readers will include Terri Bruce, Trisha Wooldridge, L. J. Cohen, Roberta Rogow, Juliana Spinks Mills, Joanna Weston, and others. Moderated by Elaine Isaak.
9:00 PM
Where Do Elves Come From?
Sarah Smith, Melanie Meadors (M), Elwin Cotman, John Clute, Greer Gilman
Marina 3 · 50 min · Panel
Elves have their roots deep in northern European folklore, and their branchings support much of modern fantasy literature. Why? What makes elves so interesting? Are there different kinds of elves? Are Tolkien’s elves — beings who are almost preternatural humans — different in kind from cute Victorian elves, or from the grimmer elven folk of Poul Anderson’s The Broken Sword? And what about the modern elves that appear in the night in many urban fantasies — why are they there? What’s the significance of a separate magical or supernatural race of human-like beings?
9:00 PM
Alone in the Dark
Barry Lee Dejasu, Jack Haringa (M), Cadwell Turnbull, Suzanne Reynolds-Alpert, Joe Monti
Burroughs · 50 min · Panel
A look at why horror protagonists are often in it alone. Is it just a case of the observation tainted by the presence of the observer? Is the fear worse when you don’t have anyone around with whom to face it? And why do their flashlight and cell phones batteries always die at the worst possible moment?
9:00 PM
The Last Book
Teresa Nielsen Hayden, Leigh Perry, Jeffrey A. Carver (M), F. Brett Cox, John Langan
Marina 2 · 50 min · Panel
Human civilization has fallen. No internet. No electrical power. The libraries have been ransacked or burned to the ground, save for one book. You must rebuild society using this one genre fiction book as a guide. Pick your book. Defend your choice.
9:00 PM
Opening Ceremony: Meet the Guests
Cindy Pon, Christopher Golden, Jim Burns, Elizabeth Hand, Vandana Singh, David G. Grubbs (M), Michael Swanwick
Galleria – Stage · 15 min · Event
Welcome to Boskone, New England’s longest-running convention for fans and creators of science fiction, fantasy, and horror! Whether you are attending for the first time or the fifty-sixth, we invite you to join us in the Galleria to meet this year’s guests:
- Guest of Honor: Elizabeth Hand
- Special Guest: Christopher Golden
- Official Artist: Jim Burns
- Young Adult Fiction Guest: Cindy Pon
- Hal Clement Science Speaker: Vandana Singh
- NESFA Press Guest: Gardner Dozois (in memoriam)
The Opening Ceremony ends with a toast to Gardner Dozois by Michael Swanwick.
9:00 PM
1990s Boskone Dance Party
Madeline Lee (M), Tristan Marks (M)
Harbor III · 120 min · Event
Get your groove on! Join our Boskone DJs, Madeline and Tristan, for some late-night dancing.
9:00 PM
Reading by Gene Doucette
Gene Doucette
Independence · 25 min · Reading
9:15 PM
Boskone 56 Reception
Vandana Singh, Elizabeth Hand, Cindy Pon, Christopher Golden, Jim Burns
Galleria – Art Show · 105 min · Event
Connoisseurs and philistines alike: welcome to the Boskone Art Show! Join us in the Galleria for an upscale social mixer. Meet our program participants while enjoying refreshments, stimulating conversation, and exceptional art that’s a feast for the eyes. Experience the music and the festivities as Boskone celebrates another year of science fiction, fantasy, and horror in Boston.
9:30 PM
Reading by Kaitlin R. Branch
Kaitlin R. Branch
Independence · 25 min · Reading
10:00 PM
Reading by Daniel Kimmel
Daniel M. Kimmel
Independence · 25 min · Reading
10:00 PM
Mighty Joe Young
Carlton · 105 min · Film/TV/Media
A different giant-ape tale by the King Kong crew–producer Cooper, director Schoedsack and animator O’Brien, with a young Ray Harryhausen as assistant animator. Unlike monster Kong, Joe is a sweet guy. Lovely Terry Moore, who raised him from infancy, protects him. The African-decor nightclub scenes, with its caged lions behind glass, is most amazing. Note that the lions are not real; Harryhausen animated them and when they break out and bite people, those people are animated, too. Look for the tug-of-war scene pitting Joe against a grotesque crew of famous boxers, wrestlers and body-builders. Unjustly jailed, Joe escapes, rescues children from a burning orphanage, and wins his ticket back to Africa. With Ben Johnson, Robert Armstrong, B/W, 94 minutes.
Saturday
9:00 AM
Origami for Kids
Galleria – Dragonslair · 50 min · Children – DragonsLair
9:30 AM
Reading by Sarah Smith
Sarah Smith
Independence · 25 min · Reading
10:00 AM
Surviving the Review
Alan Brown (M), Kristin Janz, Victoria Sandbrook, Elizabeth Hand
Marina 4 · 50 min · Panel
Reviews are apparently inescapable parts of the writing process, and may often (sometimes?) be critical to the life of a speculative fiction work. What must authors know about reviews? For the average writer, does the fear of public disrespect and rejection balance against the possible joy of a positive review? Should you ever try to respond to a review, good or bad? What role do fans play in reviews? And what are some of the best places to post, read, and find useful reviews?
10:00 AM
Thrones: The End Game
Priscilla Olson (M)
Galleria – Discussion Group · 50 min · Discussion Group
The final season is coming! What’s gonna happen? What’s not gonna happen? Who’s going to see their end, or The End for that matter?
10:00 AM
Official Artist Interview: Jim Burns
Jim Burns, Bob Eggleton
Harbor III · 50 min · Interview
Join Boskone’s Official Artist, Jim Burns, and fellow artist Bob Eggleton for a fun and lively discussion in which two old friends tell tales about the creative process, life, and art. Who knows what topics might come up!
10:00 AM
Autographing: Jonathan Hunt, Sharon Lee, Dan Moren, Steve Miller, Rebecca Roanhorse
Jonathan Hunt, Rebecca Roanhorse, Sharon Lee, Steve Miller, Dan Moren
Galleria – Autographing · 50 min · Autographing
10:00 AM
Kaffeeklatsch: Kate Elliott
Kate Elliott
Galleria – Kaffeeklatsch 1 · 50 min · Kaffeeklatsch
10:00 AM
Kaffeeklatsch: D.B. Jackson
David B. Coe/ D.B. Jackson
Galleria – Kaffeeklatsch 2 · 50 min · Kaffeeklatsch
10:00 AM
Are Villains Necessary?
Kenneth Rogers Jr. (M), Gene Doucette, MR Richardson, Dana Cameron, Leigh Grossman
Marina 2 · 50 min · Panel
We give lots of props to heroes and protagonists — but what about the other main character, who’s often working so hard at being the hero of her own story? As thanks for all her efforts, she gets tagged as the antagonist or the villain. What does that really mean? Must every SF/F/H story feature a villain? And how does a villain differ from an anti-hero?
10:00 AM
The Historical Progression of Horror
Deirdre Crimmins, Jack Haringa (M), Brett Savory, Tonia Thompson, Paul Tremblay
Marina 1 · 50 min · Panel
Horror changes over time, evolving with our social norms. What we were afraid of yesterday often fades — to be replaced by all-new fears. What inspires these changes? How can old fears be reborn? What classic horror tropes are still going strong? And what new fears might be looming ominously on the horizon?
10:00 AM
Is Escaping Reality Good for Kids?
Sarah Beth Durst, Christine Taylor-Butler (M), Anne Nydam, Barry Goldblatt, David Anthony Durham
Burroughs · 50 min · Panel
Fantasy stories regularly top the charts of books most read — and loved — by children. But some critics (and parents) still worry that “escapism” warps immature imaginations. (Would they rather keep kids’ minds in prison?) Why do so many children adore fantasy? What can fantasy do that realism can’t? With on-point examples and compelling arguments, our unbiased panel of lifelong fantasy lovers settles this question once and for all.
10:00 AM
The Music of The Lord of the Rings / The Hobbit
Denise A. Gendron (M)
Lewis · 50 min · Filk / Music
Cellist Denise Gendron takes us on a marvelous musical tour with an in-depth look at the music of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. Let’s find out what makes these movies sound so effective — demonstrated on cello with symphonic backup.
10:00 AM
The Unlikely Imaginarium: A Reading
S. E. Cooney (M), Carlos Hernandez, Clarence Young, Kenneth Schneyer, E. C. Ambrose, Cerece Rennie Murphy
Griffin · 50 min · Reading
Authors E. C. Ambrose, C. S. E. Cooney, Zig Zag Claybourne, Carlos Hernandez, Cerece Rennie Murphy, and Kenneth Schneyer gather around the dark bonfire of their collective imagination to tell stories of women, wolves, woods, bones, enraged ninjas, AI toilets, the end of the world, and basically, the whole entire multiverse. Or maybe something completely different. Attend our wild and rambunctious reading to find out for yourselves!
10:00 AM
Amazing Stories
Steve Davidson (M)
Galleria – Makers’ Space · 50 min · Discussion Group
Join publisher and editor Steve Davidson for an insightful discussion about the rebirth of an iconic magazine, and all the struggles and triumphs that have come with it.
10:00 AM
Classic Dungeons & Dragons Game
James Cambias (M)
Harbor I – Gaming · 50 min · Gaming
Game on! Author James Cambias returns to lead a classic game of Dungeons & Dragons as Boskone 56’s Dungeon Master.
10:00 AM
Writing Characters That Work Onstage
Jeanne Beckwith (M)
Independence · 50 min · Workshop
Onstage there are nothing but characters’ words and actions to flesh out who they are and what they’re thinking; to signal their goals and passions. This workshop will explore the ins and outs of writing dialog to define characters for the stage — with techniques that carry over to screenwriting as well. (Space is limited.)
10:00 AM
Asia-Influenced Fantasy
Cindy Pon, Malinda Lo, Fonda Lee, Mary Anne Mohanraj, William Hayashi (M)
Marina 3 · 50 min · Panel
While Asia-influenced science fiction and fantasy isn’t new, the genre has seen explosive growth in recent times. Are common themes emerging for authors who use Asian settings? What are some key tropes and features? Who are the most exciting writers being published? What’s ahead for this category?
10:00 AM
Creating a Game
C. DeMarco (M)
Galleria – Dragonslair · 50 min · Children – DragonsLair
Gamer Mary DeMarco helps kids plan and create their own game!
10:00 AM
A Thousand Shiny Carrots: Attracting New Blood to SF/F Fiction
Patrick Nielsen Hayden, R.W.W. Greene (M), Edie Stern, Mr. Thomas Sniegoski, Cadwell Turnbull
Harbor II · 50 min · Panel
Literature needs new blood to thrive. SF/F/H is no exception. It craves new readers, new authors, and new ideas. Nowadays, there’s no end to the shiny distractions that pull a reader’s eyes away from even the best of books. So how do we attract and reel in new readers? Is what they want in a book different than the carrot we’re actually dangling in front of them? When talking with someone who is new to the field, what books should we offer up? What authors should they really read? What ideas will get them coming back for more?
10:00 AM
Incredibles 2
Carlton · 120 min · Film/TV/Media
The Incredibles hero family takes on a new mission, which involves a change in family roles: Bob Parr (Mr Incredible) must manage the house while his wife Helen (Elastigirl) goes out to save the world.
10:00 AM
Mission to Planet Hexx Game demos
James A. Fitzpatrick III
Harbor I – Gaming · 480 min · Gaming
Mission to Planet Hexx! is a retro-style, space adventurey, board-and-card-game-in-one for 2 to 4 players, ages 10 and up, that lasts between 30 to 90 minutes. In this light- to medium-weight game, players map the galaxy with space and planet hexes as they race each other to collect data and be the first to complete their mission file. The game has light strategy similar to a collectible card game — plus elements of “take that!,” map building, dice rolling, and resource management.
10:00 AM
The Wild East Game Co. Demos
Brian Bollinger, Jill Bollinger
Harbor I – Gaming · 480 min · Gaming
With award-winning games like Slap Down!, Ill-Tempered Tikis, Pie Rats of the Carob Bean Farm, Lightning Dice, Chroma Cards, and Poop Deck: The Card Game, you’ll be sure to get yer game on! New this year: these games are available for sale in the Game Room!
10:00 AM
Game Room Giveaways
Will Mui, Michael Sharrow
Harbor I – Gaming · 840 min · Gaming
Join us in the Game Room for freebies and Door Prizes! From 6 p.m. until we run out (or get too tired!)
10:00 AM
Tournament Demos and Rules Q&A
Michael Sharrow, Will Mui
Harbor I – Gaming · 120 min · Gaming
Signups for the Guru of the Game Room Tournament end at noon. Be sure to read the Tournament Rules before entering. Also, ALL Tournament players are required to know the rules for ALL games played in the Tournament. Ask staff for details.
11:00 AM
Welcome to Boskone (II)
Brenda Noiseux (M), Tim Szczesuil (M)
Galleria – Meetup Spot · 50 min · Docent Tour
New to Boskone? Or returning after a long absence? Join us for a short discussion about what Boskone has to offer, learn some of the convention lingo, and meet new people. Then join our docent for a stroll around the con.
11:00 AM
Autographing: Shannon Chakraborty, Elwin Cotman, Christopher Golden, Fonda Lee
Christopher Golden, Elwin Cotman, Shannon Chakraborty, Fonda Lee
Galleria – Autographing · 50 min · Autographing
11:00 AM
Kaffeeklatsch: Vandana Singh
Vandana Singh
Galleria – Kaffeeklatsch 1 · 50 min · Kaffeeklatsch
11:00 AM
Kaffeeklatsch: Adam Stemple and Jane Yolen
Jane Yolen, Adam Stemple
Galleria – Kaffeeklatsch 2 · 50 min · Kaffeeklatsch
11:00 AM
AI: Be AI-fraid. Be Very AI-fraid.
Jeanne Cavelos, Mr. Walter H. Hunt (M), John P. Murphy, Edie Stern, Catherynne M. Valente
Harbor III · 50 min · Panel
Before humanity hands over too many more critical decisions to algorithms and artificial intelligences, let’s pause for questions. What are AIs’ innate weak points and/or limitations? What are their strengths? Where have they succeeded — or failed — lately? What happens when AI tech goes wrong? What might it do to us if we leave too much to them? Is us and them really the right terminology?
11:00 AM
Lost in the Woods
Paul Tremblay, Christopher Irvin, John Langan (M), Erin Roberts, Greer Gilman
Marina 4 · 50 min · Panel
Characters in fantasy, dark fantasy, and horror often find themselves lost in the woods — with the story’s plot hanging over their heads, waiting to drop. What is it about this particular setting that is so well suited for a suspenseful story? Or are authors, especially modern-day authors, using the woods as a metaphor for the city … or vice versa? What is it about the woods and nature that is so unsettling?
11:00 AM
Reading by Theodora Goss
Theodora Goss
Griffin · 25 min · Reading
11:00 AM
In Our Own Voices
Julia Rios (M), John Chu, Kenesha Williams, Tonia Thompson, Hillary Monahan
Marina 3 · 50 min · Panel
The world is a many-splendored and wondrous thing! But when you look for a similar splendid spread of diversity in literature, it’s a bit more difficult to find. What speculative fiction includes characters, stories, and issues of particular interest to LGBTQI and/or POC readers? Where can their voices be heard? Our panelists discuss why this is important, and share the must-read books that do this best.
11:00 AM
Crossing Genres
James Moore (M), Leigh Perry, Clea Simon, Craig Shaw Gardner, Brendan DuBois
Marina 2 · 50 min · Panel
Some writers work in more than one genre — not just crossing the hallowed boundaries of our three genres of science fiction, fantasy, and horror, but dabbling in mystery, romance, westerns, or even (gasp!) mainstream literature. Does working in one area influence the way you write in another? Also, some of those writers have the audacity to mix genres. When they do so, do they expose the readers of each genre to the other, or reduce their readership to those who love both? Are there mixes that work well, like rum and cola? Are there others more like oil and water?
11:00 AM
My Pet Peeve — What Really Bothers Me About Some Books
Rich Horton (M), Patrick Nielsen Hayden, John Clute, F. Brett Cox, Ellen Asher
Harbor II · 50 min · Panel
In which our distinguished panel of experts gets to rant about the particular things they really hate to come across when reading an SF/F/H novel. Is it a specific kind of plot twist? Character? Prose style? What is it, exactly, that makes them (and you) want to heave a book across the room in disgust and/or anger?
11:00 AM
Now, That’s a Great Action Scene!
S L Huang, Bracken MacLeod, Juliana Spink Mills, Errick Nunnally (M), Vincent O’Neil
Burroughs · 50 min · Panel
Fight scenes are not all created equal. Action scenes can make or break a story: drawing readers in, or shattering the suspension of their disbelief. Let’s look at some of the best action scenes and sequences to see how it’s done right — and why some scenes are just wrong. How do you keep the energy up without confusing the readers with a flurry of movements that only martial arts enthusiasts can follow — or care to?
11:00 AM
Midlist Novelists Support Group
C. Ambrose (M)
Galleria – Discussion Group · 50 min · Discussion Group
You’ve published a few books, to modest acclaim. You’re somewhere beyond a newbie, somewhere below a lead author slot. This group is a place to share your angst and fight against the brain weasels.
11:00 AM
You Can Write an Audioplay
James Patrick Kelly (M)
Lewis · 50 min · Solo Talk
Maybe nobody will shoot your screenplay, but someone will record your audioplay. With the rise of paying markets like Big Finish Productions and Audible Theater, a new era in professional audiotheater has dawned. But wait, how do you go about writing an SF/F audioplay? Where do you start? And what is the demand for this type of work? Join James Patrick Kelly for this presentation, and learn what it takes to write a great audioplay and how to get it recorded. Plus, there will be market tips!
11:00 AM
Printmaking Demonstration & Workshop
Anne Nydam (M)
Galleria – Makers’ Space · 50 min · Workshop
Print block artist Anne Nydam demonstrates how to make your own rubber print blocks, and gives members the opportunity to try making prints and print blocks themselves. (Space is limited.)
11:00 AM
Reading by Jeff Hecht
Jeff Hecht
Independence · 25 min · Reading
11:00 AM
Concept Art vs. Illustration
Alan F. Beck, Jonathan Hunt, Reiko Murakami, Brett Savory, Joe Monti (M)
Marina 1 · 50 min · Panel
Concept art and illustration are two different types of art — but are they really that different? Our artists come together to compare and contrast the differences when working in these two modes. How do they constrain or enhance creativity? What do the artists enjoy most, and why?
11:00 AM
More Art with Kids
Lisa Hertel (M)
Galleria – Dragonslair · 50 min · Children – DragonsLair
11:30 AM
Reading by Kenneth Rogers
Kenneth Rogers Jr.
Independence · 25 min · Reading
11:30 AM
Reading by Malinda Lo
Malinda Lo
Griffin · 25 min · Reading
12:00 NOON
Near-Future SF
Michael Swanwick, Karl Schroeder, Paul Di Filippo (M), Fran Wilde, Brett James
Harbor II · 50 min · Panel
1984 was published in 1949. 2001: A Space Odyssey was published in 1968. Neither was predictive … at least for the year they were putatively about. Should science fiction set in the near future try to be prophetic? Can it avoid becoming dated? Does it always have to be dystopic? There’s a lot of it out there these days, but what makes a near-future story successful?
12:00 NOON
Who Painted That?
Mark Olson (M), Joseph Siclari, Bob Eggleton
Marina 1 · 50 min · Panel
One of the joys of SF art is seeing the wide range of styles and techniques. When an expert looks at a piece, he or she can usually tell who painted it without checking the signature. Today we repeat a popular game from last year’s Boskone: shown pictures of genre art from decades past and present, the panelists will identify them — and explain how they did that. Then we’ll find out if they’re correct.
12:00 NOON
Autographing: Brenda W. Clough, Gerald L. Coleman, Sarah Beth Durst, Kenneth Rogers Jr., Kate Elliott
Sarah Beth Durst, Kenneth Rogers Jr., Brenda W. Clough, Gerald L. Coleman, Kate Elliott
Galleria – Autographing · 50 min · Autographing
12:00 NOON
Kaffeeklatsch: Ellen Datlow
Ms Ellen Datlow
Galleria – Kaffeeklatsch 1 · 50 min · Kaffeeklatsch
12:00 NOON
Kaffeeklatsch: Shannon Chakraborty
Shannon Chakraborty
Galleria – Kaffeeklatsch 2 · 50 min · Kaffeeklatsch
12:00 NOON
Crafting Sex Scenes
Darlene Marshall (M), Robert V.S. Redick, Kaitlin R. Branch, Melanie Meadors, Mary Anne Mohanraj
Burroughs · 50 min · Panel
Everyone loves a good sex scene. But writing one is no bed of roses. Sex and sex scenes are both subjective, and the idea of doing it wrong can be paralyzing. What do publishers want? Readers? How do you get it right when you have trouble even talking about actual sex in real life? Communication is key. Our authors share some tips and tricks for crafting a memorable moment.
12:00 NOON
Reading by James Cambias
James Cambias
Griffin · 25 min · Reading
12:00 NOON
Guilty Pleasures
Steven Popkes, Suzanne Palmer, Sarah Jean Horwitz (M), Kristin Janz, Batya “The Toon” Wittenberg
Marina 4 · 50 min · Panel
The Smurfs! B movies! All that goofy jazz. Certain entertainments or activities give us great personal gratification. But somehow, we’re just a bit ashamed to admit that we like My Little Pony… or bowling … or mud wrestling. Hear participants reveal their guilty pleasures, and why they indulge.
12:00 NOON
The Shadow of the City
Clea Simon (M), Mur Lafferty, Karen Heuler, Roberta Rogow, Cindy Pon
Harbor III · 50 min · Panel
What are the challenges and benefits of using a real-world city in your urban fantasy or other spec fic? How accurate do you need to be before natives cry foul? Both London and New York have served as settings for innumerable novels. How would these stories change if the Tube were replaced by the New York subway, or vice versa? And if the setting were Paris, New Delhi, or Sydney, how different would the fiction feel?
12:00 NOON
Learning to Make Video Games
Brianna Wu (M)
Galleria – Makers’ Space · 50 min · Discussion Group
Curious about how video games are made? Game designer Brianna Wu shares the process for developing a video game in this informal discussion group.
12:00 NOON
Slaughterhouse-Five at 50
Kenneth Schneyer (M), Ginjer Buchanan (M)
Lewis · 50 min · Discussion Group
Slaughterhouse-Five, or The Children’s Crusade: A Duty-Dance with Death is probably Kurt Vonnegut’s most widely read and influential work. Much analysis has been lavished on the novel’s unreliable narrator, Christian philosophy, nonchronological chapters, free will, and other tropes. How do modern readers receive this iconic work from 1969? Would many of today’s genre readers appreciate an antiwar book with a protagonist who experiences personal (if involuntary) time travel and a stint in a human zoo on the planet Tralfamadore? Maybe, maybe not. And so it goes.
12:00 NOON
Marketing and Selling Your Book
Gene Doucette, Cerece Rennie Murphy (M), Jeanne Cavelos, Kenesha Williams, Jeffrey A. Carver
Marina 3 · 50 min · Panel
Nowadays, writing the book is only half the battle — especially as more and more publishers push marketing onto their writers’ plates. Both before and after publication, there’s a whole new set of perhaps-unfamiliar activities and skills you need to master. Covering topics from social media to book tours and interviews to readings, our select group of authors shares tips and tricks for getting your book seen and snapped up by readers.
12:00 NOON
Reading by Leigh Grossman
Leigh Grossman
Independence · 25 min · Reading
12:00 NOON
Music in Science Fiction
S. E. Cooney, Vincent Docherty (M), David Shaw, Rajnar Vajra, Faye Ringel
Marina 2 · 50 min · Panel
What part does music play in science fiction? We hear it in films, videos, and even games. What about fiction — how does music enhance the reading experience? Is there a special connection between music and SF that other genres lack, and that goes above and beyond mere sound effects? Let’s talk music and its special interplay with the SF genre.
12:00 NOON
Indie Comics Chat
Brenda Noiseux (M)
Galleria – Discussion Group · 50 min · Discussion Group
From international comics like Blacksad by Juan Diaz Canales and Juanjo Guarnido, to the Hugo-Award-winning fantasy Monstress by Marjorie Liu and Sana Takeda, to the ageless classic Peanuts by Charles M. Shulz, indie comics come in all shapes and sizes, with a little something for everyone. Come join our informal discussion about independent comics. Learn how to find some of the most interesting indies being published today … as well as a few oldies but goodies.
12:00 NOON
DragonsLair Closed for Lunch
Galleria – Dragonslair · 50 min · Children – DragonsLair
12:00 NOON
Mistborn: House War Game Demo
Joshua Bilmes (M)
Harbor I – Gaming · 50 min · Gaming
Game on! A semi-cooperative resource-management game, Mistborn: House War is set during the events of Mistborn: The Final Empire, the first novel in the bestselling fantasy series by Brandon Sanderson. Join Brandon’s agent Joshua Bilmes for a special demo of this fun new boardgame!
12:00 NOON
Xabungle (Episodes 1-4)
Carlton · 105 min · Film/TV/Media
On the planet Zola, the statute of limitations runs only 3 days. Jiron Amos’ family is murdered, but he fails to catch their killer before the slayer receives full immunity. Jiron snaps, and continues to pursue his quest for revenge — but now he’s the lawbreaker! With the help of desert drifter Rag and her gang of Sand Rats, Jiron soon takes his chance to steal the perfect weapon for his quest: a giant robot walker called the Xabungle. (See 12:15 a.m. Sunday for episodes 5-8.)
12:30 PM
Reading by Max Gladstone
Max Gladstone
Griffin · 25 min · Reading
12:30 PM
Reading by Robert Finegold
Robert B. Finegold M.D.
Independence · 25 min · Reading
12:45 PM
Guru of the Game Room Tournament
Will Mui, Zev Sero
Harbor I – Gaming · 345 min · Gaming
Here it comes: The Big One! Starting at 12:45 p.m., join our annual prize-packed Tournament. Four games in (about!) 5 hours, with breaks. Lords of Waterdeep with the Skullport & Undermountain expansion; Istanbul with Mocha and Baksheesh expansion; Patrician: Towering Glory; and Ticket to Ride. Each game will be played over the course of 1 hour. Contestants MUST have a working knowledge of every game before entering the Tournament. See Game Room staff for Tournament details. Tournament rules have changed this year, so be sure to check the listings. Tournament games will be demoed throughout the evening. Signups for the tournament end at noon on Saturday.
1:00 PM
Asteroids, Meteorites, and Comets, Oh My!
Br Guy Consolmagno SJ (M)
Marina 1 · 50 min · Solo Talk
What are they? How are they different? Which ones have hit Earth; how, when, and where; and what happened? What’s big in the story of this small(er) stuff? And when will a Big One come for us again?
1:00 PM
Hugo Award Recommendations (Dramatic)
Bob Devney (M), Daniel M. Kimmel, Garen Daly, Deirdre Crimmins, Marshall Ryan Maresca
Marina 3 · 50 min · Panel
What’s the greatest stuff you saw last year? Let’s (quickly) review and recommend 2018’s best movies, TV shows, theatrical productions, and more in the worlds of science fiction, fantasy, and horror. If you’re eligible to vote, feel free to take notes — your Hugo Awards nominations ballot is due in Dublin, Ireland soon.
1:00 PM
Autographing: Dana Cameron, Gene Doucette, Hillary Monahan, Tonia Thompson
Dana Cameron, Gene Doucette, Hillary Monahan, Tonia Thompson
Galleria – Autographing · 50 min · Autographing
1:00 PM
Kaffeeklatsch: Rebecca Roanhorse
Rebecca Roanhorse
Galleria – Kaffeeklatsch 1 · 50 min · Kaffeeklatsch
1:00 PM
Kaffeeklatsch: Patrick Nielsen Hayden and Teresa Nielsen Hayden
Teresa Nielsen Hayden, Patrick Nielsen Hayden
Galleria – Kaffeeklatsch 2 · 50 min · Kaffeeklatsch
1:00 PM
Reading by Toni Kelner
Leigh Perry
Griffin · 25 min · Reading
1:00 PM
Guest of Honor Interview: Elizabeth Hand
Elizabeth Hand, James Patrick Kelly
Harbor III · 50 min · Interview
She’s won four World Fantasy Awards and two Nebulas, so far. She’s written hundreds of reviews for the Washington Post and one book about Catwoman. Elizabeth Hand’s 13 novels and 4 collections employ her keen eye for character and culture to illuminate the noirish niches where horror, fantasy, mystery, and history intersect. And her next book will show us a gender-fluid young heroine, an artist gifted with madness, and the child-killer lurking in the amusement park. If you’re interested in art, or love, or murder, join Boskone favorite James Patrick Kelly for a riveting talk with his longtime friend Liz Hand.
1:00 PM
The Great Escape
Brad Abraham, Brendan DuBois (M), Brenda W. Clough, Sharon Lee, Laurence Raphael Brothers
Burroughs · 50 min · Panel
How do you extricate your characters from sticky situations? Felix the Cat has his bag of tricks, Batman has his utility belt — but heavy-handed rabbit-pulling is passé these days. So, what’s it take to orchestrate a believable, savvy escape? Or a whole series of them, when your plot keeps putting your protagonist in peril? Let’s consider some great SF/F/H escapes, and discuss how the writer pulled them off.
1:00 PM
Why Diversity Matters
William Hayashi (M), Gerald L. Coleman, Cerece Rennie Murphy, Carlos Hernandez, Reiko Murakami
Harbor II · 50 min · Panel
Why is diversity particularly important for the science fiction, fantasy, and horror fields? Do mainstream publishers and agents still present any obstacles to authors, artists, and other creatives of color? Is the term “Afrofuturism” a limiting classification for creative works, or is it a useful start? In science fiction and fantasy, women now dominate the YA space; how can nonwhite creatives make equivalent headway?
1:00 PM
The Evolution of the Slayer in Dark Fantasy
Christopher Golden, James Moore (M), Suzanne Reynolds-Alpert, Bracken MacLeod, Jack Haringa
Marina 2 · 50 min · Panel
Since Van Helsing’s debut as the original vampire hunter in 1897’s Dracula, characters such as Buffy, Sam and Dean Winchester, Hellboy, Wynonna Earp, and John Constantine have all, er, staked their claim to the mantle of slayer. How have these characters changed the role — or have we evolved to think about it differently? Why is this character type so popular? What part have Slayers played In the growth of the dark fantasy genre?
1:00 PM
Reading by S.L. Huang
S L Huang
Independence · 25 min · Reading
1:00 PM
Song Circle: Space
Dave Weingart (M)
Lewis · 50 min · Filk / Music
Join filker Dave Weingart, who leads this space-themed song circle that includes anything from spaceships to asteroids and far-off planets. Song circles are a simple folk form in which singers take turns choosing songs to share and sing. (Open to all ages and singing levels.)
1:00 PM
Using Watercolors: Art Demo by Alan F. Beck
Alan F. Beck (M)
Galleria – Makers’ Space · 50 min · Demonstration
Artist Alan F. Beck shares tips and techniques for handling watercolors, while presenting a live demo!
1:00 PM
The Good Place
Fonda Lee, Erin Underwood (M), Darlene Marshall, Jeanne Beckwith, Jennifer Pelland
Marina 4 · 50 min · Panel
This quirky 30-minute sitcom about getting the afterlife you deserve has consistently topped the speculative TV ratings. Why? What makes The Good Place so good? From the setup to the stories to the characters, our panelists look at why this odd little show not only works, but works so well.
1:00 PM
Kids’ Art Show Tour
Galleria – Dragonslair · 50 min · Children – DragonsLair
Persis Thorndike leads kids on a special tour through the Boskone Art Show.
1:30 PM
Readings by Cindy Pon and Kate Elliott
Kate Elliott, Cindy Pon
Griffin · 25 min · Reading
Authors Cindy Pon and Kate Elliott pair up for a fun reading together.
1:30 PM
Reading by Mary Anne Mohanraj
Mary Anne Mohanraj
Independence · 25 min · Reading
2:00 PM
Autographing: Max Gladstone, Leigh Grossman, Vincent O’Neil, Paul Tremblay
Max Gladstone, Paul Tremblay, Vincent O’Neil, Leigh Grossman
Galleria – Autographing · 50 min · Autographing
2:00 PM
Kaffeeklatsch: John Clute
John Clute
Galleria – Kaffeeklatsch 1 · 50 min · Kaffeeklatsch
2:00 PM
Kaffeeklatsch: Sarah Beth Durst
Sarah Beth Durst
Galleria – Kaffeeklatsch 2 · 50 min · Kaffeeklatsch
2:00 PM
Young Adult Science Fiction
Lauren Roy, Michael Stearns, Fran Wilde, Justin Key (M), Erin Underwood
Marina 3 · 50 min · Panel
In the burgeoning field of YA speculative fiction, fantasy still leads the way, but there is also plenty of great science fiction out there. What are our favorite recent YA SF books? What makes them special? What forthcoming topics or titles sound tempting? Are there topics we’re hoping to see addressed in coming years? How are today’s YA authors writing about future technology, when tech is changing so fast?
2:00 PM
Got a Great Anthology Idea: Now What?
Robert B. Finegold M.D., Ellen Datlow, Neil Clarke, Julia Rios (M), Melanie Meadors
Marina 2 · 50 min · Panel
From Year’s Best to themed stories, general topics, and shared worlds, any number of concepts would make fantastic anthologies. However, even a great concept can be a hard sell. If great ideas don’t guarantee a sale, what does it really take? What kinds of collections do people want to read, or more to the point, what are they willing to buy? Whether you are a genre luminary who is guest-editing an annual anthology, or a new editor — what are the critical steps to conceiving, planning, and implementing the pitch, sale, and production of an anthology? And what do you do when you just can’t sell the book, despite a list of fantastic contributors?
2:00 PM
(Self) Censorship and the Writer
KJ Kabza, Hillary Monahan (M), Shannon Chakraborty, Carlos Hernandez, Bracken MacLeod
Harbor III · 50 min · Panel
Are there times authors should pause what they’re doing and stop writing something? What might provoke this? When should you censor yourself — and when should you keep on with your thoughts? Will being true to your vision hurt someone — or yourself? What other reasons might justify leaving something out of your work? How do you feel about censorship of your material — and the reasons behind it?
2:00 PM
Odyssey Workshop
Jeanne Cavelos (M)
Galleria – Discussion Group · 50 min · Discussion Group
Director Jeanne Cavelos describes Odyssey, an intensive 6-week program for writers of fantasy, science fiction, and horror held each summer in Manchester, NH. Guest lecturers have included George R. R. Martin, Elizabeth Hand, N. K. Jemisin, Holly Black, Nancy Kress, and Dan Simmons, and 59% of graduates have gone on to be professionally published. Jeanne explains the structure of the program, the work required, the challenges involved, and the pros and cons of workshops in general.
2:00 PM
Human Motivation and the Writer
Dr. Stephen P. Kelner Jr. (M)
Marina 4 · 50 min · Solo Talk
Motivational psychologist Stephen Kelner shares a special talk on the underlying causes of what makes people tick, covering conscious and nonconscious motive patterns. How can authors use these principles to create realistic characters and believable scenes?
2:00 PM
The History of Black Horror
Tonia Thompson (M), Elwin Cotman, Kenesha Williams, Errick Nunnally, Grady Hendrix
Harbor II · 50 min · Panel
Black horror didn’t start with Get Out (2017), and this horror film didn’t put black horror on the map — but it was a wake-up call to Hollywood and book publishers that there are financial rewards for working with black creators and their horror projects. From Linda Addison to Jordan Peele or newer novelists such as Justina Ireland or Victor LaValle, black horror is a rich source of fiction and film entertainment, but it wasn’t always that way. The history of black horror ranges from blaxploitation films to secondary characters who rarely make it into the second chapter. Let’s chat about where we’ve been, where we are, and where we’re going in the realm of black horror.
2:00 PM
Economics in SF/F Worlds
Fonda Lee, Karl Schroeder, Steve Miller, Mr. Walter H. Hunt, MR Richardson (M)
Burroughs · 50 min · Panel
Whether you deal in coin, platinum, electronic credits, or chickens, all societies rest upon an agreed-upon economic foundation. However, fantastic fiction rarely features a reference to any body that establishes and monitors a financial system. How important is it to see a working (or failing) economy in an SF/F world? Can you realistically have a cashless society (Star Trek) or a civilization run by orcs (LOTR)? What are the economic drivers that keep these worlds turning? Fellowships that cross multiple borders to throw away precious metal objects so rarely pay well. How do our heroes and villains survive without visible incomes of any kind?
2:00 PM
Fun with Science for Kids
Christine Taylor-Butler (M)
Galleria – Dragonslair · 50 min · Children – DragonsLair
MIT alumna and children’s author Christine Taylor-Butler shares some fun and easy science experiments for kids!
2:00 PM
The Art of Drawing Aliens
Frank Wu, Christopher Paniccia, Jim Burns, Cat Scully (M), Bob Eggleton
Marina 1 · 50 min · Panel
Imagining and drawing wonderfully weird aliens … what works? What about drawing aliens by design, using instructions from others such as an excerpt from a novel?
2:00 PM
Strange Threads: Boskone’s Group Knit-Along
Priscilla Olson, Edie Stern
Galleria – Makers’ Space · 50 min · Other
The Knit-Along is our annual exploration of string theory … and a chance to show off your prowess with needles. Come and join the fun, and get to finger fine fibers with other obsessive knitters.
2:00 PM
Reading by D.B. Jackson
David B. Coe/ D.B. Jackson
Griffin · 25 min · Reading
2:00 PM
Concert: Adam Stemple
Adam Stemple (M)
Lewis · 25 min · Concert
2:00 PM
Reading by Gillian Daniels
Gillian Daniels
Independence · 25 min · Reading
2:00 PM
The History of Stop Motion & The Lost World
Carlton · 120 min · Film/TV/Media
The first film to match stop-motion (tabletop miniature) animation with live action, the public was amazed to see dinosaurs come to life. Wallace Beery is half-mad Professor Challenger, leading an expedition to a Jurassic plateau in Brazil. Based on Conan Doyle’s thrilling story, with special effects by Willis O’Brien, whose next feature was King Kong in sound.
2:30 PM
Reading by Christopher Golden
Christopher Golden
Griffin · 25 min · Reading
2:30 PM
Concert: Dave Weingart
Dave Weingart (M)
Lewis · 25 min · Concert
2:30 PM
Reading by Auston Habershaw
Auston Habershaw
Independence · 25 min · Reading
3:00 PM
The Monster in the Mirror
Paul Jeter, F. Brett Cox (M), Erin Roberts, Cadwell Turnbull, John Clute
Harbor II · 50 min · Panel
Whether in real life or fiction, people often see what they want to see when they gaze into the looking glass. Unbeknownst to us, we may be the monster, unable to see our true selves. When battling the monster within, how do we see through the glamour and the haze? The opposite can also happen, where we see a monster instead of the merely somewhat flawed person we actually are. For good or ill, what can we learn from the characters we create?
3:00 PM
Hugo Award Recommendations (Written)
Bob Devney (M), Vincent Docherty, Gerald L. Coleman
Marina 4 · 50 min · Panel
What were your favorite SF/F/H novels, novellas, novelettes, short stories, related works, and graphic stories of 2018? Panelists and members share their favorites and discover new things to read. Let’s find the hidden gems and take notes for this year’s Hugo Awards nominations ballots too—they’re due in Dublin, Ireland soon!
3:00 PM
Autographing: Jeffrey A. Carver, Walter H. Hunt, John Langan, Leigh Perry
Mr. Walter H. Hunt, Leigh Perry, John Langan, Jeffrey A. Carver
Galleria – Autographing · 50 min · Autographing
3:00 PM
Kaffeeklatsch: Elizabeth Hand
Elizabeth Hand
Galleria – Kaffeeklatsch 1 · 50 min · Kaffeeklatsch
3:00 PM
Kaffeeklatsch: Bruce Coville
Bruce Coville
Galleria – Kaffeeklatsch 2 · 50 min · Kaffeeklatsch
3:00 PM
Where Did That Story Come From?
Sarah Smith, Faye Ringel, David B. Coe/ D.B. Jackson, Teresa Nielsen Hayden (M), KJ Kabza
Marina 2 · 50 min · Panel
Myths and legends? Historical events? Perhaps some combinations of these? Whatever the case, it’s very likely it’s really not a completely original idea from a skilled writer’s mind … or is it? Our panel looks at recent and classic SF/F/H, and identifies the possible inspiration or source of the material.
3:00 PM
Can Bad Science Make Good Fiction?
R.W.W. Greene (M), Steven Popkes, William Hayashi, S L Huang, Justin Key
Burroughs · 50 min · Panel
We’ve all seen movies featuring explosions heard through deep space and other scientific faux pas. Some of these films are much-loved and/or are considered great despite their scientific flaws. How many transgressions against physical laws, or what sort of horrendously unscientific event, can occur before we should reject the movie or novel? How willing are we to suspend disbelief? Or does anything go if it’s a good story?
3:00 PM
Under the Cyberknife
Priscilla Olson (M)
Galleria – Makers’ Space · 50 min · Discussion Group
Discussing recent advances in cancer treatment: a personal perspective.
3:00 PM
Worldbuilding and Storytelling in Magic: The Gathering
Kaitlin R. Branch (M)
Galleria – Discussion Group · 50 min · Discussion Group
The Gathering started as a card collecting and playing game in 1993, and has since built an empire of players, judges, and cards with wild cash values. Behind the cards, though, is a robust, long-running epic of storytelling — involving connected worlds, alternate histories, magic wielders, and at least one canon-wide reset. Kaitlin Branch leads a discussion on all things Magic.
3:00 PM
Do Not Be Satisfied: Narrative Structure and Expectations
Kate Elliott (M)
Marina 1 · 50 min · Solo Talk
Join author Kate Elliot for an in-depth presentation (all images or short clips! no boring text slides!) on how the expectations we bring to a story influence how we engage with it. Opening paragraphs (and opening sequences in films) set the stage, and often rely on familiarity or cultural knowledge to draw us in. Where does that leave the unfamiliar reader? How do we keep ourselves from the easy path when writing? The primary focus will be on science fiction and fantasy stories.
3:00 PM
Song Circle: Work of the Guests!
Ellen Kranzer (M)
Lewis · 50 min · Filk / Music
Join filker Ellen Kranzer, who leads this Boskone Guests-themed song circle — which includes anything that taps into motifs from our Guests’ work. Can we meet the challenge? Song circles are a simple folk form in which singers take turns choosing songs to share and sing. (Open to all ages and singing levels.)
3:00 PM
Building with Marbles Ways and LEGOs
Galleria – Dragonslair · 50 min · Children – DragonsLair
Building LEGO structures — and there will be marbles for added fun!
3:00 PM
Reading by Karl Schroeder
Karl Schroeder
Griffin · 25 min · Reading
3:00 PM
When YA Characters Grow Up
Christine Taylor-Butler (M), Mr. Thomas Sniegoski, Michael Stearns, David Anthony Durham, Fonda Lee
Marina 3 · 50 min · Panel
Most YA books and series stop when the main character reaches 18 years old. Is this really when their stories end, or have these tales fallen victim to the publishing rubric that defines YA fiction — keeping these kids forever young, even it it means an artificially imposed ending? Can a YA character make the leap into the pages of adult fiction? If so, what would it take? Have any characters done so successfully? What stories would we like to see all grown up?
3:00 PM
Of Gods, Devils, and Tricksters
Rebecca Roanhorse, Shannon Chakraborty, Jane Yolen, Max Gladstone (M), Dana Cameron
Harbor III · 50 min · Panel
Every society has legends of supernatural beings who come bearing gifts — almost always with a catch. Across our ghost-ridden globe, and beyond, bargains are struck to the benefit (and peril) of the person seeking fantastical favors. What’s the allure of these stories? Who are these supernatural tricksters, and what drives them to make their tricksy trades with mankind?
3:00 PM
Reading by Marshall Ryan Maresca
Marshall Ryan Maresca
Independence · 25 min · Reading
3:30 PM
Reading by Suzanne Palmer
Suzanne Palmer
Independence · 25 min · Reading
3:30 PM
Reading by Nicholas Kaufman
Nicholas Kaufmann
Griffin · 25 min · Reading
4:00 PM
The (r)Evolution of Military SF
Alan Brown, Vincent O’Neil (M), Paul Di Filippo, Steve Miller, Errick Nunnally
Burroughs · 50 min · Panel
The tools of war change: shouldn’t fiction about fighting also evolve? Even as weapons in the real world are approaching science fictional levels of lethality, the spirit of military SF hasn’t changed much since the age of swords. Let’s look at how technology, fiction, and the military intersect and interact.
4:00 PM
What’s Up With Westworld
Priscilla Olson (M)
Galleria – Discussion Group · 50 min · Discussion Group
What makes HBO’s ranchers-and-robots TV show Westworld so amazing — and what insights does the series deliver about the development of consciousness? (Warning: SPOILERS through end of Season 2!)
4:00 PM
Science Guest Presentation: Science, Science Fiction, and Climate Change: A Braided Tale
Vandana Singh (M)
Harbor III · 50 min · Solo Talk
How has science led us to the realization that climate change is real, human-caused, and deeply serious? Why aren’t we paying attention to the unraveling of the world? Can science save us? What about science fiction? Physicist and SF writer Vandana Singh discusses her journey from particle physics to the transdisciplinary study of climate change, and the lessons she has learned so far from climatologists, anthropologists, students, activists, and people at the front lines of climate justice.
4:00 PM
Autographing: James Cambias, Daniel M. Kimmel, Bracken MacLeod, Karl Schroeder
James Cambias, Daniel M. Kimmel, Bracken MacLeod, Karl Schroeder
Galleria – Autographing · 50 min · Autographing
4:00 PM
Kaffeeklatsch: Theodora Goss
Theodora Goss
Galleria – Kaffeeklatsch 2 · 50 min · Kaffeeklatsch
4:00 PM
Social Change and the Speculative World
Janice Gelb (M), Andrea Corbin, Robert V.S. Redick, Christopher Golden, Hillary Monahan
Harbor II · 50 min · Panel
Speculative fiction prides itself on thinking beyond the box in multiple ways — including socially. However, the real world can have a hard time keeping up. What genre works show how particular social issues can or should be handled? Have any SF/F stories or characters inspired you to take real action?
4:00 PM
Concert: Brimstone Rhine (C.S.E. Cooney)
S. E. Cooney (M)
Lewis · 25 min · Concert
4:00 PM
Drawing to Order (and Editing Art)
Reiko Murakami, Bob Eggleton, Cat Scully (M), Jonathan Hunt
Marina 2 · 50 min · Panel
Professional artists tell tales of the perils of working when the call they’re responding to is from the art director instead of the muse. Artists receive concepts from the client, and get to work. At what point does the artist bring the product back to the client for “edits”? Is this even the right term? How far into the creative process can you go before changes are no longer productive? When does an artist go back to the drawing board?
4:00 PM
I Paid Homage, You Borrowed, He Plagiarized
Mur Lafferty, Barry Goldblatt, Dave Weingart (M), Kenneth Schneyer, Christopher Paniccia
Marina 3 · 50 min · Panel
We all borrow from each other. Sometimes it is a way to honor those to whom we pay homage, sometimes to ridicule. Shakespeare borrowed from his predecessors (and rivals), and others have borrowed from him — but does that make it okay? Is imitation really the sincerest form of flattery? Let’s talk about the subtleties of borrowing in the arts, from writing to the visual arts and more. When is it sharing versus taking, and how should we credit those from whom you borrow?
4:00 PM
Kaffeeklatsch-Horror in the Afternoon!
Paul Tremblay, Nicholas Kaufmann
Galleria – Kaffeeklatsch 1 · 50 min · Kaffeeklatsch
4:00 PM
The Middle Book Syndrome
Juliana Spink Mills, Fran Wilde (M), Kenneth Rogers Jr., Sarah Beth Durst, Sharon Lee
Marina 4 · 50 min · Panel
The first book of your series was amazing: solid story; compelling characters; great reception by publisher, critics, and fans. Now, the hard part: living up to all the high expectations. Or maybe the first book had a less receptive reception, but you still need to produce that second volume? Plus, there’s the rhythm problem — first book, thrilling beginnings; last book, satisfying conclusions; middle book, recaps and repetitions … How do you deal with the pressures of a multi-book contract and impatient fans?
4:00 PM
The Importance of Speculative Nonfiction
Grady Hendrix (M), John Clute, Deirdre Crimmins, Dan Moren, Gerald L. Coleman
Marina 1 · 50 min · Panel
If literature is the heart of a genre, nonfiction is its bones — and is as important to the growth and historical legacy of a genre. It often flies beneath the fannish radar. But is that changing? Discussing everything from essays to journalism, history, biographies, and more, our nonfiction authors share the art of laying bare the structures beneath the SF/F/H genres. What skills does it take? What special challenges do they face? What’s important to capture? And how does speculative nonfiction differ from its counterparts in other genres?
4:00 PM
Watercoloring for Adults
Lisa Hertel (M)
Galleria – Makers’ Space · 50 min · Makers Space
Make a starry sunset scene with watercolors! A professional watercolor artist will lead you through the process step by step to assure success. Limit 15.
4:00 PM
Docent Tour of the Special Art Exhibit
Joseph Siclari (M), Edie Stern (M)
Galleria – Art Show · 50 min · Docent Tour
Take an informative stroll around the special art exhibit with the curators. You’ll hit the highlights with knowledgeable guides who can indicate points of interest.
4:00 PM
Hopscotch by the Numbers
Kaitlin R. Branch (M)
Galleria – Dragonslair · 50 min · Children – DragonsLair
Kids: Kaitlin Nichols makes math fun and easy with an indoor game of hopscotch!
4:00 PM
Game Design: Demo & Playtesting
Carlos Hernandez (M)
Harbor I – Gaming · 50 min · Gaming
See the process in action! Author, gamer, and game designer Carlos Hernandez conducts a special “exposed” playtest, talking through how to create a game by demonstrating his own process. (Don’t miss our panel on Designing an RPG on Sunday at 10:00 a.m., or our discussion group on Learning to Make Videogames on Saturday at 6:00 p.m.)
4:00 PM
Reading by Julie C. Day
Julie C. Day
Independence · 25 min · Reading
4:00 PM
Danes are Delicious! Blending Board Games and RPGs
Carlos Hernandez
Harbor I – Gaming · 60 min · Gaming
In Danes are Delicious you play as one of the sad-sack thanes who are soldiers in Hrothgar’s hall, and who basically wait around to get eaten by Grendel. Now, Beowulf has announced his plan to save them all from the monster. What a national disgrace, to have to be saved by a boastful 15-year-old Weather-Geat! Is there anything you can do to save your honor?
Well, Beowulf is said to have the strength of 30 thanes. So, if 30 thanes combine their efforts in a flawlessly coordinated attack, might they finally fell Grendel and save the last dregs of Danish honor?
Danes are Delicious is a hybrid board game and RPG that will ask players to fulfill wild prophecies, concoct unlikely schemes for success, and manage chance in order to defeat Grendel before Beowulf grabs all the honor for himself. This game is in the early stages of development, so likely it will break! But playtesting is its own fun. If you’re a person who loves to be a part of the game-creation process, come join the fun!
4:15 PM
Hozuki’s Coolheadness (Episodes 5-8)
Carlton · 105 min · Film/TV/Media
When things go wrong in one of Japan’s many hells, Lord Emma calls upon his trusted second-in-command, Hozuki, to take care of things. With 272 hells to watch over, Hozuki is a very busy demon! See Sunday at 10:00 a.m. for episodes 9-13. (In Japanese with English subtitles.)
4:30 PM
Reading by Bruce Coville
Bruce Coville
Griffin · 25 min · Reading
4:30 PM
Concert: Roberta Rogow
Roberta Rogow (M)
Lewis · 25 min · Concert
4:30 PM
Reading by Suzanne Reynolds-Alpert
Suzanne Reynolds-Alpert
Independence · 25 min · Reading
5:00 PM
Creating Your Evil Empire: A Practical Guide
Teresa Nielsen Hayden (M), Mur Lafferty, Steven Popkes, Craig Shaw Gardner, Bob Kuhn
Harbor III · 50 min · Panel
Our crack team of evil architects takes you through a fun, lighthearted planning session on how to build effective evil empires, citing examples from film and literature. Tip #1: Never connect an exhaust port directly to the main reactor, so one paltry proton torpedo can make your shiny new Death Star go boom.
5:00 PM
The Year in Astronomy and Physics
Mark Olson (M), Br Guy Consolmagno SJ, Jeff Hecht, Rajnar Vajra
Marina 1 · 49 min · Panel
An annual roundup of the latest research and discoveries in two sciences that matter. Our experts will share what’s new and interesting, cutting-edge and speculative. From planets to particles, and beyond!
5:00 PM
Autographing: Theodora Goss, D.B. Jackson, Cindy Pon, Cat Scully
David B. Coe/ D.B. Jackson, Cindy Pon, Cat Scully, Theodora Goss
Galleria – Autographing · 50 min · Autographing
5:00 PM
Kaffeeklatsch: Karl Schroeder
Karl Schroeder
Galleria – Kaffeeklatsch 1 · 50 min · Kaffeeklatsch
5:00 PM
Kaffeeklatsch: Max Gladstone
Max Gladstone
Galleria – Kaffeeklatsch 2 · 50 min · Kaffeeklatsch
5:00 PM
Reading and Discussion by Jane Yolen and Adam Stemple
Jane Yolen, Adam Stemple
Griffin · 50 min · Reading
Certainly, one of SF/F’s most productive mother/son writing teams, authors Jane Yolen and Adam Stemple have published three new books together this year! Join Jane and Adam for a special reading and discussion — and come wish Jane a happy 80th birthday!
5:00 PM
The Great Agent Hunt
Joshua Bilmes, S L Huang (M), Barry Goldblatt, Christopher Golden, Lauren Roy
Marina 3 · 50 min · Panel
Finding an agent can be a bit of a mystery. Whom should you contact? What should you say? How much of your manuscript should be finished before you call? And what about established authors who have to change representation? Our pro agents share their experience and advice on the key steps in your agent-finding process.
5:00 PM
Gardner Dozois and the Influence of Editors on SF
John R. Douglas (M), Patrick Nielsen Hayden, Neil Clarke, Ellen Asher, Ellen Datlow
Harbor II · 50 min · Panel
Do editors simply publish what readers want to read? Or do their tastes dictate the field’s character and direction? NESFA Press Memorial Guest Gardner Dozois edited Asimov’s Magazine from 1984 to 2004, and the Year’s Best SF anthologies from 1984 until his death last year. Our panel of stellar SF/F/H editors will examine his work and their own for insights into editing, writing, reading, and the care and feeding of the fantastic.
5:00 PM
The Murderbot Diaries
John P. Murphy (M)
Galleria – Discussion Group · 50 min · Discussion Group
The Murderbot Diaries by Martha Wells is an award-winning novella series published by Tor.com. It stars an AI whose analysis of humanity’s flaws and graces, paired with its own struggle to survive so it can binge cool TV shows, make for a fast-paced, witty, and insightful reading experience. Author John P. Murphy leads an informal discussion (with spoilers!) about this clever new hit series.
5:00 PM
Parenting and Writing
Mr. Walter H. Hunt (M), Kate Elliott (M)
Galleria – Makers’ Space · 50 min · Discussion Group
Parenting is hard, but it’s not without its joys and successes. Parenting and writing comes with its own special set of needs, problems, and benefits. Join our informal discussion group, led by Walter Hunt and Kate Elliott, and share your own tales of being a creative parent.
5:00 PM
The Art of Jim Burns
Jim Burns (M)
Burroughs · 80 min · Solo Talk
Boskone’s Official Artist, Jim Burns, has won three Pro Artist Hugos for illustrating works by Karen Joy Fowler, Walter Jon Williams, Julie C. Day, Peter F. Hamilton, George R. R. Martin, and more. His sleek starships and photo-realistically fantastic flyers may spring from his fling as an RAF jet pilot. But his convincing creatures and compelling planetscapes come straight from the writers’ words—via Jim Burns’ vivid imagination. See for yourself…
5:00 PM
Belly Dancing Workshop
Jennifer Pelland (M)
Lewis · 50 min · Workshop
5:00 PM
Flash Fiction Slam
R.W.W. Greene (M), James Patrick Kelly, Andrea Corbin, John Chu
Marina 2 · 80 min · Event
Boskone’s Flash Fiction Slam returns! Be one of eleven (11) writers to compete for the title of The Flash, reading your own original fiction — which must tell a complete tale within a 3-minute period. Our expert panel of judges will score your work, and you automatically lose 10 percent for going over your 3-minute time. You may only read your own work. The reader with the top score wins! Sign up before the con by sending an email to program@boskone.org for one of eight (8) reading slots on a first-come, first-served basis. Or sign up onsite at Program Ops in the Harbor Foyer for one of three (3) at-con openings. A waiting list will also be available there.
5:00 PM
The Impact of Fandom
Janice Gelb (M), Dave Weingart, Steve Miller, Brad Abraham
Marina 4 · 50 min · Panel
Fandom is a many-splendored (and terrifying?) thing. As fandom accompanies SF/F into the mainstream, what’s its impact on the genre’s creators? Do fans actually save shows? Influence creative directions? Drive innovation? Or demand more of the same? What about when fans become creators themselves? Looking ahead, what more might we fans do for our beloved genre?
5:00 PM
DragonsLair Is Closed for Dinner
Galleria – Dragonslair · 50 min · Children – DragonsLair
5:00 PM
Reading by Melinda Snodgrass
Melinda Snodgrass
Independence · 25 min · Reading
5:30 PM
Comics Writing Workshop
Josh Dahl (M)
Independence · 80 min · Workshop
Comics artist and author Josh Dahl gives a short workshop on the ins and outs of writing comics. This is not an in-depth session, but it will cover the high points and basics for those interested in learning what it takes. (Hurry: space is limited.)
6:00 PM
The Work of John Crowley
Rich Horton, Joe Monti (M), Faye Ringel, Steven Popkes, Greer Gilman
Marina 4 · 50 min · Panel
John Crowley is an author with a powerful gift for examining what he describes as “the human condition and the human situation as it is now.” Let’s explore his works and try to understand his influences — from Byron to Le Guin — as well as how his fictions have influenced others. From Little, Big to Ka, where should a reader who is new to Crowley start? What expectations should we leave behind as we move more deeply into the worlds he’s created?
6:00 PM
DragonsLair Is Closed for Dinner
Galleria – Dragonslair · 50 min · Children – DragonsLair
6:00 PM
Reading by Catherynne Valente
Catherynne M. Valente
Griffin · 25 min · Reading
6:00 PM
Jewish Havdalah Services
Marina 3 · 50 min · Other
6:00 PM
Patlabor OVA (Episodes 4-7)
Carlton · 120 min · Film/TV/Media
When criminals in giant robots do their thing, it’s up to the Tokyo PD’s SV2 division to stop them. Limited budgets, inept bureaucrats, and the occasional attacking sea monster don’t make it easy, though. (In Japanese with English subtitles.)
6:30 PM
Boskone Book Party
Brenda W. Clough, Erin Underwood (M), Cerece Rennie Murphy, Isadora Deese, Christopher Paniccia, Steve Davidson, Suzanne Palmer, S.L. Huang, Clea Simon, Jane Yolen, Adam Stemple, Julie C. Day, Karen Heuler, Jeff Hecht, KJ Kabza, Grady Hendrix, Kenneth Rogers Jr., Clarence Young, Elwin Cotman
Galleria – Stage · 50 min · Event
Come join the fun at Boskone 56’s Book Party — and meet the presses and authors who have new books coming out at the con! This is your chance to see what’s new from writers you already love, as well as those you have yet to discover.
6:30 PM
Reading by Walter Hunt
Mr. Walter H. Hunt
Griffin · 25 min · Reading
7:00 PM
“Until We Are Utterly Destroyed” — A Reading by Frank Wu
Frank Wu
Burroughs · 50 min · Reading
Frank Wu presents “Until We Are Utterly Destroyed, ” a story published in the July/Aug 2018 Analog. It will be an experience to remember!
7:00 PM
Buttons, Beads, and Pipe Cleaners
Galleria – Dragonslair · 50 min · Children – DragonsLair
7:00 PM
Munchkin
Will Mui
Harbor I – Gaming · 180 min · Gaming
Come play the perennial classic card game, Munchkin with our resident Game Room master, Will! Some surprises, and maybe a Munchkin giveaway or two as well!
8:00 PM
Saturday Night Filk & Open Singing
Lewis · 240 min · Filk / Music
Come gather to share songs! Science-fictional or fantastic topics may predominate, but all songs are welcome. Come to sing or just to listen.
8:00 PM
If Only It Were Real
Suzanne Reynolds-Alpert, Marshall Ryan Maresca, Alan Brown (M), Mary Anne Mohanraj, Karl Schroeder
Griffin · 50 min · Panel
What science fiction concept, other than space travel, would you most like to see realized? Flying cars? Matter replicators? Time travel? Why? What would be the impact on civilization of this wish fulfillment? Flying cars crashing into buildings, replicators putting manufacturers out of business, time travelers running wild, oh my!
8:00 PM
Tough Love for New Writers
Brett James (M), E. C. Ambrose, Neil Clarke, Gillian Daniels, Joe Monti
Burroughs · 50 min · Panel
The writing profession is tough, but not without opportunities. If you have a thin skin, need quick gratification, or aren’t in it for the long haul, give up now. Still interested? Where does a wordsmith go to hone his skill? Where can a writer find a critique group? From online to print, a plethora of publications are accepting submissions. Some of them reject with lightning speed; others take months to say no! But say an acceptance arrives. Some pay; some don’t. What does “success” really mean? And why should you plan on keeping your day job for a long, long time?
8:00 PM
Noir at the Boskone Bar: Group Reading—Special Edition
Christopher Irvin (M), Errick Nunnally (M), Tonia Thompson, Bracken MacLeod, Karen Heuler, Barry Lee Dejasu, Rebecca Roanhorse
Galleria – Stage · 90 min · Reading
Noir at the Boskone Bar is a special night of reading and fun with our noir, crime, mystery, and horror writers. Hosted by Chris Irvin and Errick Nunnally.
8:00 PM
Boskone 56 Awards Ceremony
David G. Grubbs (M), Daniel M. Kimmel, Jane Yolen, Bruce Coville, Gay Ellen Dennett, Michael Sharrow
Harbor II+III · 20 min · Event
Saturday night’s extravaganza begins with the New England Science Fiction Association’s Award Ceremony, in which we present our annual Skylark and Gaughan awards. The Skylark Award honors the work and personal qualities of an exceptional contributor to science fiction. The Gaughan Award is presented to a talented up-and-coming / emerging speculative artist. We’ll also be announcing the winner of the NESFA Short Story Contest!
8:00 PM
Children’s Open Programming
Galleria – Dragonslair · 50 min · Children – DragonsLair
8:15 PM
Valley of the Gwangi (16mm Screening)
Carlton · 105 min · Film/TV/Media
Ray Harryhausen’s Dynamation is tabletop stop-motion with miniature creatures and sets blended seamlessly with live action in this all-time favorite dinosaur adventure! Cowboys from a turn-of-the-century wild west show are led to a hidden valley in Mexico by an adorable eohippus. There they find dinosaurs and rope a vicious allosaurus to take back to their circus. Of course, it gets loose and havoc prevails. There’s a nice romantic backstory with Gila Golan and James Franciscus. This is a genuine Technicolor print!
8:25 PM
Saturday Night Plays
David G. Grubbs (M), Jane Yolen, Bob Kuhn, Jennifer Pelland, S L Huang, Bruce Coville, F. Brett Cox, James Patrick Kelly, Jeanne Beckwith
Harbor II+III · 45 min · Other
Boskone is pleased to present an evening of three short plays written by Boskone’s own playwrights and participants! Don’t miss this chance to view these original plays and readings, which will be a delight to the SFnal imagination!
HOST & Directions: Dave Grubbs
Play Title: The Real Housewives of the Apocalypse
Playwright: Jeanne Beckwith
Characters:
- Honeybun: Jane Yolen
- Martine: S.L. Huang
- Francesca: Jennifer Pelland
Monologue Title: Consider the Services of the Departed
Playwright: F. Brett Cox
- Character: Bruce Coville
Play Title: Panspermia
Playwright: James Patrick Kelly
Characters:
- Clio, an exobiologist: S.L. Huang
- Freya, a restaurant patron: Jane Yolen
- Reg, Clio’s boss: Bob Kuhn
9:00 PM
Must See TV
Dan Moren (M), Craig Shaw Gardner, Lauren Roy, Brad Abraham
Burroughs · 50 min · Panel
It’s definitely the Golden Age of SF/F/H TV. With so many candidates, it’s daunting — but let’s take a shot at suggesting the best shows now available for view. And what makes each one bingeworthy instead of cringeworthy?
9:00 PM
Starting and Finishing a Novel
Sarah Beth Durst, Grady Hendrix, Robert V.S. Redick, David McDonald, Brenda W. Clough (M)
Griffin · 50 min · Panel
Any tricks of the trade worth sharing? Do you outline the whole thing, or just start writing and go on until you drop? Should you focus on expanding your shorter works (anything wrong with doing that, btw?), or just start from scratch? Is it easier to start — or stop? Should you ever change the starting point mid-story? Does the ending (re)write itself? Creators of longer fiction share their thoughts.
9:15 PM
More Fun with Silly Poses
Jennifer Pelland, Bruce Coville, Vincent Docherty (M), David G. Grubbs (M), Kenesha Williams
Harbor II+III · 60 min · Other
Expect to emit great giggles at our live group reenactments of scenes from SF/fantasy/horror cover art. (Warning: high probability of awkward audience participation and pretty pathetic props.)
10:00 PM
Golden Voyage of Sinbad
Carlton · 120 min · Film/TV/Media
Excellent stop-motion animation by Ray Harryhausen is almost eclipsed by Tom Baker (later, Dr. Who) googling his eyes and curling his lip as the evil magician Koura. The little homunculus he brings to life with a drop of his own blood and sends to spy on Sinbad is one of the screen’s best creatures. The ship’s figurehead coming to life and stalking the deck is a good one, too. Every spell Koura casts drains his life-energy and he ages visibly every time he works his evil magic. With absurdly handsome John Philip Law and big-eyed, bulbous Caroline Munroe.
10:00 PM
Boskone Late Night Dance with SaintVitus
Marina 1 · 120 min · Event
Expect music from the ’80s way into the far future; expect the unexpected; expect to dance. SaintVitus discovered the Goth and rave scenes in the early ’90s; he has branched out since then. The son of a prominent ethnomusicologist, he has long had a proclivity for esoteric music, and has been DJing on college radio stations and at the occasional after-party since high school.
Sunday
9:00 AM
Children’s Open Programming
Galleria – Dragonslair · 50 min · Children – DragonsLair
9:00 AM
Christian Prayer (non-liturgical)
Lewis · 50 min · Other
9:30 AM
Reading by Brendan Dubois
Brendan DuBois
Griffin · 25 min · Reading
9:30 AM
Reading by Clea Simon
Clea Simon
Independence · 25 min · Reading
10:00 AM
Long Live the Legion!
Priscilla Olson (M)
Galleria – Discussion Group · 50 min · Discussion Group
Our yearly though increasingly forlorn salute to DC’s Legion of Super-Heroes. Sigh. Despite several comics reboots over the years, looks like it’s still dead—wait! Up in the TV sky! It’s Supergirl—now with Brainiac 5 and Saturn Girl…Please join us. We’ve got a Legion of stuff to talk about again!
10:00 AM
Autographing: Ellen Datlow, James Patrick Kelly, Christopher Paniccia, Fran Wilde
Fran Wilde, Ellen Datlow, Christopher Paniccia, James Patrick Kelly
Galleria – Autographing · 50 min · Autographing
10:00 AM
Kaffeeklatsch: Fonda Lee
Fonda Lee
Galleria – Kaffeeklatsch 1 · 50 min · Kaffeeklatsch
10:00 AM
Reading by Vandana Singh
Vandana Singh
Griffin · 25 min · Reading
10:00 AM
Reading Your Fiction Aloud: From Page to Stage
S. E. Cooney (M)
Lewis · 50 min · Workshop
Award-winning author and performer C.S.E. Cooney leads a workshop for writers with little to no public performance training in reading their own work aloud. To people! In public! You’ll learn tips and tricks to captivate your audiences. (Aimed at writers who have had little or no public performance training.)
10:00 AM
Designing a Role-Playing Game
Melanie Meadors, Leigh Grossman, Lauren Roy, Bob Kuhn (M)
Marina 3 · 50 min · Panel
Have you ever thought, “That would make a great game”? Our panel discusses what goes into making a game interesting, playable, fair, and fun. Possibly they’ll offer a lightning example of (the first steps in) game design.
10:00 AM
The Creative Life
S L Huang, Alan F. Beck (M), Suzanne Palmer, LJ Cohen, Rajnar Vajra
Marina 1 · 50 min · Panel
Ever wonder what the daily life of an author, artist, or musician is really like? It’s not always sunshine and puppies. The creators on our panel share lessons learned and techniques for organizing their day-to-day routines.
10:00 AM
Watercoloring for Kids
Lisa Hertel (M)
Galleria – Dragonslair · 50 min · Children – DragonsLair
Make a starry sunset scene with watercolors! A professional watercolor artist will lead kids through the process step by step to ensure success. (Limit: 15 participants.)
10:00 AM
Using Poetry in Fantasy Worldbuilding
Anne Nydam (M)
Independence · 50 min · Workshop
The power of poetry pervades the arts. How can writers employ poetry as part of their worldbuilding process? Teacher, author, and artist Anne Nydam shows how poetry can inspire us to create fantastical new worlds, in this informal discussion of the magical properties of poetry.
10:00 AM
The Limits of Automation
Mark Olson (M), Jeff Hecht, Karl Schroeder, Laurence Raphael Brothers, Brianna Wu
Burroughs · 50 min · Panel
When, how, why, what? Following up on last year’s “The Future of Work” … How far can we reasonably project that automation of jobs will advance in the real world in the next 10 years? Why? What limits to automation are presently visible? What plausible limits have we not yet encountered? What about the longer term? What jobs can we reasonably expect will be completely automatable in years to come? We’ll focus on technical aspects, not so much on societal acceptance, and not at all on societal impact.
10:00 AM
Breaking Joseph Campbell’s Monomyth
Auston Habershaw (M), John Clute, Teresa Nielsen Hayden, F. Brett Cox, Faye Ringel
Marina 4 · 50 min · Panel
Mythographer Joseph Campbell’s formula of the “hero’s journey” — an oh-so-familiar sequence of questing, crises, victory, and return — may not provide the only way to construct a story. But can narratives that don’t use this structure reach us as deeply? Is the hero’s journey applicable also to non-Western storytelling? Our panelists discuss Campbell’s “monomyth,” and whether and how to deviate from it. (For helpful graphics and resources, see www.sfcenter.ku.edu/Workshop-stuff/Joseph-Campbell-Hero-Journey.htm)
10:00 AM
Fantastical Crime and Punishment
Clea Simon (M), Christopher Irvin, Bracken MacLeod, Leigh Perry, James Moore
Harbor III · 50 min · Panel
Must people with magical gifts or superpowers follow the rule of law? Or should new rules apply? How might the existence of special abilities require us to alter the criminal code? We’d probably need new ways to investigate, process, and punish magical malefactors or supercriminals. And prepare to take your moral compasses for a spin.
10:00 AM
The Chat Fantastic
Cindy Pon, Malinda Lo, Kate Elliott, Bruce Coville, David Anthony Durham (M)
Harbor II · 50 min · Panel
Ever wonder what writers gab about when left to their own devices? Join our gaggle (gossip?) of authors for a lively and freewheeling discussion of life, parenting, writing, and everything in between. Who knows what they will … or won’t … talk about?
10:00 AM
Horror Character Design
Cat Scully, Reiko Murakami, Grady Hendrix (M), Jonathan Hunt, Frank Wu
Marina 2 · 50 min · Panel
Horror artists have the uncanny ability to inspire us with their frightful, delightful creations. What goes into visually representing a spine-chilling prose character? What do viewers look for? What works and what doesn’t? Why are we drawn to (and haunted by) these eerie images? And which creepy characters do we love and fear the most?
10:00 AM
Art Stroll with Jim Burns
Jim Burns (M), Joseph Siclari
Galleria – Art Show · 50 min · Docent Tour
Join Boskone’s Official Artist Jim Burns for a casual, fun, yet fantastical stroll through the Boskone Art Show.
10:00 AM
Kaffeeklatsch: Catherynne Valente
Catherynne M. Valente
Galleria – Kaffeeklatsch 2 · 50 min · Kaffeeklatsch
10:00 AM
Hozuki’s Coolheadedness (Episodes 9-13)
Carlton · 135 min · Film/TV/Media
When things go wrong in one of Japan’s many hells, Lord Enma calls upon his trusted second-in-command, Hozuki, to take care of things. With 272 hells to watch over, Hozuki is a very busy demon! (In Japanese with English subtitles.)
10:00 AM
Hatch Makerspace: LEGO Robotics & 3-D Printing Demos
Corey Angelus, Chris Ernemwein, Liz Helfer
Harbor I – Gaming · 300 min · Gaming
Last chance to join us for local Makerspace favorite Hatch, from Watertown, for exciting LEGO Mindstorms EV3 demos, along with live 3-D printing demos! Free 3-D printed game item giveaways too! And more freebies!
10:00 AM
Munchkin
Harbor I – Gaming · 180 min · Gaming
Come play the perennial classic card game Munchkin, with our resident Game Room master, Will! Some surprises, and maybe a Munchkin giveaway or two as well!
10:00 AM
Game Room Giveaways
Harbor I – Gaming · 300 min · Gaming
But wait, there’s more! Much more! We saved the best for last. All the best free stuff, games, books, and much more will be given away today only! Ask Game Room staff for details.
10:30 AM
Reading by S.A. Chakraborty
Shannon Chakraborty
Griffin · 25 min · Reading
11:00 AM
Boskone Book Club: _Want_ by Cindy Pon
Cindy Pon, Bob Kuhn (M)
Griffin · 50 min · Discussion Group
The Boskone Book Club continues! Join us for a conversation that brings con-goers together to consider one noteworthy work at length. This year we are reading Want by Cindy Pon (our Young Adult Fiction Guest). Boskone’s own Bob Kuhn will lead the discussion; Cindy Pon will join the group halfway through for a Q&A. To participate, please read the book and come ready with your thoughts and questions.
11:00 AM
Special Guest Interview: Christopher Golden
Christopher Golden, Mr. Thomas Sniegoski
Harbor III · 50 min · Interview
He’s a New York Times bestselling, Bram Stoker Award winning author with a whole lot of (character) voices in his head — from an occult detective to a part-time autopsy assistant to Buffy, Hellboy, King Kong, and Wolverine. He’s written dozens of novels, short stories, and screenplays; edited numerous collections; even founded a popular book festival. Also, he recently edited a holiday anthology sensitively titled Hark! The Herald Angels Scream. Join us as his long-time friend, collaborator, and confidant Thomas Sniegoski helps explore the unique outlook and fantastical career of Christopher Golden.
11:00 AM
Autographing: Brendan DuBois, Elizabeth Hand, Vandana Singh, Jane Yolen
Elizabeth Hand, Jane Yolen, Vandana Singh, Brendan DuBois
Galleria – Autographing · 50 min · Autographing
11:00 AM
Gimme an Epic Story, Light on the Magic
Michael Swanwick, David Anthony Durham, Victoria Sandbrook (M)
Harbor II · 50 min · Panel
Some fantasists take delight in working out in detail the rules for magic in their worlds. But fantasy need not be about the magic, and there are some very successful fantasy stories with little or no magic. What makes these stories fantasy? And what makes them good?
11:00 AM
Kaffeeklatsch: Mur Lafferty — Cancelled
11:00 AM
Kaffeeklatsch: Sharon Lee and Steve Miller
Sharon Lee, Steve Miller
Galleria – Kaffeeklatsch 2 · 50 min · Kaffeeklatsch
11:00 AM
SF Name That Tune: What’s Next?
Denise A. Gendron, Vincent Docherty (M), Tim Szczesuil
Lewis · 50 min · Game Show
How well do you know skiffy TV and movie music? Well enough to keep going when the music stops? Come earn points (and chocolate!) by singing, humming, or speaking what comes next after the live cello or programmed computer music goes silent. Extra credit for being able to identify the movie, characters, or scene associated with the music.
11:00 AM
The Future of Audiobooks
S. E. Cooney, Tonia Thompson, Bruce Coville, Erin Underwood (M), James Patrick Kelly
Marina 2 · 50 min · Panel
Audiobooks are a hot-and-getting-hotter way of enjoying stories. Join our panelists to discuss audiobook ups and downs, tips for listening, how to choose the ones that are right for you — and what the future holds for the new (and very old) experience of reading by ear.
11:00 AM
The New Doctor — Who?
Dana Cameron, David McDonald, Jeanne Beckwith (M), Kenneth Schneyer, Nicholas Kaufmann
Marina 4 · 50 min · Panel
Back in 1981, Tom Baker suggested his successor be female. Almost 40 years later, we finally have Jodie Whittaker portraying the Thirteenth Doctor. How does her interpretation of the iconic Time Lord stand out from those of her predecessors’? After all the hype, has the first female Doctor actually changed the dynamics of the show? What are the high and low points of her tenure so far? Has the writing quality kept pace with this significant new development?
11:00 AM
How Science Fiction Became Respectable
Steve Davidson, John R. Douglas, Joseph Siclari (M), Patrick Nielsen Hayden, Elise Sacchetti, Rich Horton
Marina 1 · 50 min · Panel
Science fiction and fantasy have hit the mainstream with written works such as the Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings series, and media such as Arrival, Mr. Robot, various Avengers flicks, and the revitalization of the Star Wars franchise. But have they lost their cutting edge along the way? Does becoming mainstream reduce the opportunity for a valuable outsider perspective on society and on what it is to be human? Does wider acceptance weaken the power of these works?
11:00 AM
Using SF/F/H in the Classroom
Leigh Grossman (M), Jack Haringa, Carlos Hernandez, Christine Taylor-Butler, R.W.W. Greene
Marina 3 · 50 min · Panel
Join this special discussion focused on sharing best practices for using science fiction, fantasy, or horror fiction in mainstream courses at any level.
11:00 AM
Drawing Magical Creatures
Cat Scully (M)
Galleria – Dragonslair · 50 min · Children – DragonsLair
Boskone kids learn the art of drawing amazing magical creatures with artist Cat Scully.
11:00 AM
When Robots Take Over (Our Jobs)
Mark Olson (M), Karl Schroeder, B. Diane Martin, John P. Murphy, Brianna Wu
Burroughs · 50 min · Panel
Twentieth-century history shows that automation can increase productivity and stimulate new employment. More recent developments, however, haven’t always been so productive or stimulating (e.g., grocery store self-checkouts). Are we nearing a point of no return — when technological advances chiefly function to replace human labor? What happens to society once work gets scarce, and stays that way? And what might the transition to that brave new (jobless) world entail?
11:00 AM
Reading by Elwin Cotman
Elwin Cotman
Independence · 25 min · Reading
11:00 AM
Choose Your Own Adventure: House of Danger
C. DeMarco (M)
Harbor I – Gaming · 50 min · Gaming
Will you survive the House of Danger? Gamer and author M. C. DeMarco leads a hilarious romp through this classic “choose your own adventure” game!
11:30 AM
Reading by Julia Rios
Julia Rios
Independence · 25 min · Reading
12:00 NOON
How to Survive a Horror Story
Barry Lee Dejasu, Nicholas Kaufmann, Suzanne Reynolds-Alpert, Marshall Ryan Maresca (M), Hillary Monahan
Marina 4 · 50 min · Panel
Who knows better than a horror writer how to survive a horror story? Join he fun and “lively” conversation as our panelists discuss scenarios from horror novels and films as if they themselves were characters within the scenes. Will their special authorial insights keep them safe? Will they split up to look for the cat? What are they willing to do to survive (relatively) intact? Who dies first? Who lives to tell the tale?
12:00 NOON
Autographing: Neil Clarke, Julie C. Day, S L Huang, Christine Taylor-Butler
Neil Clarke, Julie C. Day, S L Huang, Christine Taylor-Butler
Galleria – Autographing · 50 min · Autographing
12:00 NOON
Kaffeeklatsch: Melinda Snodgrass
Melinda Snodgrass
Galleria – Kaffeeklatsch 1 · 50 min · Kaffeeklatsch
12:00 NOON
Kaffeeklatsch: Br Guy Consolmagno SJ
Br Guy Consolmagno SJ
Galleria – Kaffeeklatsch 2 · 50 min · Kaffeeklatsch
12:00 NOON
Curious Toys: A Reading & Discussion by Elizabeth Hand
Elizabeth Hand, David Shaw (M)
Marina 1 · 50 min · Reading
Join Boskone’s Guest of Honor, Elizabeth Hand, for a special sneak-peek reading from her forthcoming novel, Curious Toys. Liz will also discuss a key inspiration for her book: the fascinating true story of Chicago fantasist Henry Darger, a recluse who posthumously gained a cult following for his visionary writing and “outsider” art.
12:00 NOON
Why Are Dystopias So Popular?
William Hayashi, Max Gladstone, Karen Heuler, Rich Horton (M), Isadora Deese
Burroughs · 50 min · Panel
Hope for the best: plan for the worst. Do we learn more from dismal futures? Are they more “realistic”? Why do more and more writers and readers focus on post-apocalyptic and dystopian projections? What do these visions of the future tell us about ourselves today?
12:00 NOON
Stereotyping Authors
Ginjer Buchanan (M), Joshua Bilmes, Christopher Golden, David B. Coe/ D.B. Jackson, Darlene Marshall
Harbor III · 50 min · Panel
Some authors get known for writing only one particular type of fiction: hard SF, or urban detective fantasy, or grimdark milSF mystery nurse romance … This sort of branding can bring a writer great success — while plunking them straight into a pigeonhole. Some find it quite difficult to escape. But breakouts are possible. Our panelists discuss the ups and downs of becoming a “known quantity, ” and how it affects the arc of their careers and the fiction they publish.
12:00 NOON
The Hospital of the Future
Priscilla Olson (M), Robert B. Finegold M.D., Christopher Paniccia, Mary Anne Mohanraj, Justin Key
Marina 2 · 50 min · Panel
How will hospitals evolve, and what technologies are already driving those changes? How soon till computerized (and/or long-distance) surgery becomes routine? Will robots replace human healthcare workers? What about genetic therapies, targeted and/or individualized treatments, and (finally) a real emphasis on prevention? How will future patients fare in terms of costs and care?
12:00 NOON
The Mind of the Writer
Kate Elliott, Trisha J. Wooldridge, Adam Stemple, David McDonald, Kaitlin R. Branch (M)
Marina 3 · 50 min · Panel
Are writers like the rest of us when it comes to mental health? This panel discusses anxiety, depression, and other issues that authors may face. How can self-care, community, and other forms of therapy — including the act of creation itself — help? How have science fiction, fantasy, and horror writers portrayed psychological problems on the page?
12:00 NOON
Reading by Fonda Lee
Fonda Lee
Griffin · 25 min · Reading
12:00 NOON
Reading by John Chu
John Chu
Independence · 25 min · Reading
12:00 NOON
Song Circles: Parody
Roberta Rogow (M)
Lewis · 50 min · Filk / Music
Join filker Roberta Rogow, who leads this parody-themed song circle that includes any number of fun-filled songs of wit and exaggeration. Weird Al has nothing on us! Song circles are a simple folk form in which singers take turns choosing songs to share and sing. (Open to all ages and singing levels.)
12:00 NOON
Vasilisa and Her Sisters: Non-Western Fairy Tales
Jane Yolen, Theodora Goss, Muriel Stockdale (M), Catherynne M. Valente, Brenda Noiseux
Harbor II · 50 min · Panel
Central and Eastern Europe are full of sumptuous folk narratives to delight our taste for the fantastic — from Russo-Slavic fairy tales to stories from Hungary and Romania. As a close neighbor, Asia includes an equal treasure trove of myths and legends from Russia to the Middle East and India. Our panel discusses what sets these fables apart from their equally mischievous cousins in other parts of the world. Who are some of the more notable characters? How have they fared in their 21st-century retellings? What characters or stories are ripe for reinvention?
12:00 NOON
Fantastical Worldbuilding With Kids
Sarah Beth Durst (M)
Galleria – Dragonslair · 50 min · Children – DragonsLair
Author Sara Beth Durst works with kids to help them create the fictional world that exists right outside of Boskone’s doors! What wondrous creatures or fantastic dangers exist beyond Boskone’s borders?
12:15 PM
Xabungle (Episodes 5-8)
Carlton · 105 min · Film/TV/Media
On the planet Zola, the statute of limitations runs only 3 days. Jiron Amos’ family is murdered, but he fails to catch their killer before the slayer receives full immunity. Jiron snaps, and continues to pursue his quest for revenge — but now he’s the lawbreaker! With the help of desert drifter Rag and her gang of Sand Rats, Jiron soon takes his chance to steal the perfect weapon for his quest: a giant robot walker called the Xabungle.
12:30 PM
Reading by Fran Wilde
Fran Wilde
Griffin · 25 min · Reading
12:30 PM
Reading by M.R. Richardson
MR Richardson
Independence · 25 min · Reading
1:00 PM
Autographing: Bruce Coville, Craig Shaw Gardner, Marshall Ryan Maresca
Bruce Coville, Craig Shaw Gardner, Marshall Ryan Maresca
Galleria – Autographing · 50 min · Autographing
1:00 PM
Kaffeeklatsch: William Hayashi
William Hayashi
Galleria – Kaffeeklatsch 1 · 50 min · Kaffeeklatsch
1:00 PM
Kaffeeklatsch: Cindy Pon
Cindy Pon
Galleria – Kaffeeklatsch 2 · 50 min · Kaffeeklatsch
1:00 PM
In Memoriam: Honoring Gardner Dozois
Ellen Datlow, Michael Swanwick, James Patrick Kelly (M), John R. Douglas
Harbor III · 50 min · Panel
Please join us in remembering Boskone’s NESFA Press Guest Gardner Dozois, who passed away in May 2018. A fine writer and critic, Gardner was above all a preeminent magazine editor (Asimov’s) and anthologist (Year’s Best SF) who greatly influenced the fantastic literature of our time. His new fannish travel memoir On the Road with Gardner Dozois: Travel Narratives 1995-2000 (NESFA Press, February 2019) is our Boskone 56 Book. We are deeply saddened by his passing. But we look forward to celebrating the joys of a life lived to its fullest, as we honor the man who was, is, and always will be our dear friend Gardner.
1:00 PM
Non-Superhero Comics
Elise Sacchetti, Josh Dahl (M), Robert Howard, Christopher Paniccia, Paul Jeter
Marina 2 · 50 min · Panel
Comics existed before superheroes (and will likely continue to exist should they all disappear). Our expert panel recommends the best of the modern crop, and explains what they have to offer that might not be found in the usual superhero issues.
1:00 PM
Breaking Open History
C. Ambrose, Trisha J. Wooldridge, Leigh Grossman (M), David B. Coe/ D.B. Jackson
Burroughs · 50 min · Panel
In doing the research for a historical fantasy novel, you might find that the more you drill down, the more richness you discover. Should you write strictly historically, or do you let the history lightly inform an alternate world? At what point does the research start strangling the story? How do you respectfully approach historical controversies or discoveries from cultures other than your own?
1:00 PM
Exploring Interactive Fiction 101
Max Gladstone, Andrea Corbin, M. C. DeMarco (M), Erin Roberts, Carlos Hernandez
Marina 1 · 50 min · Panel
Twine. Choice of Games. Sub-Q Magazine. Interactive fiction (IF) has come a long way since the ’70s. Now, IF is having a renaissance, with new tools and platforms that make it more accessible to both writers and fans. But do today’s fans know what IF is? Let’s define it, and then discuss it. Where can you find it? How can a writer break into the field? Is it fair to say that traditionally told stories are for passive readers, but IF is for adventurers?
1:00 PM
Map Making for Pirates!
Anne Nydam (M)
Galleria – Dragonslair · 50 min · Children – DragonsLair
Author Anne Nydam helps kids create their own special treasure maps of far-off places, using clues that only they will understand — in order to find the special buried treasure of the Dread Pirate Boskone!
1:00 PM
Gimme That Old-Time Space Adventure
Brendan DuBois, John P. Murphy (M), MR Richardson, Auston Habershaw, Dan Moren
Harbor II · 50 min · Panel
The subgenre has been around a long time — but people still love a good space adventure story. Why? What are the greatest space sagas of the past, and what are the new classics of the field? How are they similar or different from each other? Do the new ones still have that good old goshwow sensawunda?
1:00 PM
Reading by Sharon Lee and Steve Miller
Sharon Lee, Steve Miller
Griffin · 25 min · Reading
1:00 PM
Reading by Darlene Marshall
Darlene Marshall
Independence · 25 min · Reading
1:00 PM
Song Circle: Magical Beasts
Ellen Kranzer (M)
Lewis · 50 min · Filk / Music
Join filker Ellen Kranzer, who leads this magical beast-themed song circle that includes anything from dragons to unicorns, black cats, and more! Song circles are a simple folk form in which singers take turns choosing songs to share and sing. (Open to all ages and singing levels.)
1:00 PM
Book Discussion: The Broken Earth Trilogy
Fonda Lee (M)
Marina 4 · 50 min · Discussion Group
N.K. Jemisin’s The Broken Earth trilogy is a groundbreaking series from concept to content to awards. Fonda Lee leads a special discussion of these unique books — the first in the genre’s history to win three consecutive Best Novel Hugos. (There will be spoilers!)
1:00 PM
Black Lightning and the CW
Gerald L. Coleman, Kenneth Rogers Jr., Erin Underwood (M), Errick Nunnally, R.W.W. Greene
Marina 3 · 50 min · Panel
Who’s watching Black Lightning? Is the CW getting this adaptation of the DC comic right? Our panel of Black Lightning fans and critics shares their loves and hates, plus special insights into arguably one of the best superhero series on TV. Join us for a superfun discussion about this electric show and our favorite citizens of Freeland.
1:30 PM
Reading by John Langan
John Langan
Griffin · 25 min · Reading
1:30 PM
Reading by Kristin Janz
Kristin Janz
Independence · 25 min · Reading
2:00 PM
Autographing: Sarah Jean Horwitz, James Moore, Sarah Smith, Thomas Sniegoski
James Moore, Sarah Smith, Mr. Thomas Sniegoski, Sarah Jean Horwitz
Galleria – Autographing · 50 min · Autographing
2:00 PM
So, You’ve Been Taken Aboard a UFO!
Teresa Nielsen Hayden, Janice Gelb (M), Ginjer Buchanan
Marina 1 · 50 min · Panel
An Etiquette Guide for Abductees. Remember: when greeting an unknown species, shake only the proffered hand … or, uh, tentacle … but what else should you do — or not do, for that matter? Our crack team of experts are here to help! Come listen to our essential tips for meeting, greeting, and avoiding becoming their chef’s next grand culinary experiment!
2:00 PM
Kaffeeklatsch: Joshua Bilmes and Barry Goldblatt
Joshua Bilmes, Barry Goldblatt
Galleria – Kaffeeklatsch 1 · 50 min · Kaffeeklatsch
2:00 PM
Kaffeeklatsch: S L Huang
S L Huang
Galleria – Kaffeeklatsch 2 · 50 min · Kaffeeklatsch
2:00 PM
Breaking the Fourth Wall
Theodora Goss, Jeanne Beckwith (M), Rajnar Vajra, Paul Tremblay, Catherynne M. Valente
Marina 2 · 50 min · Panel
Adopted from the theater, “breaking the fourth wall” is a way of drawing viewers into the world created on the stage or screen, by speaking directly to them. This technique is employed in works from Hamlet to Hamilton, Monty Python, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, Deadpool, and more, to great effect. What techniques correspond to this in written works? Why — and when — should this tactic be considered? What are its drawbacks?
2:00 PM
AI and the Growth of Intelligence
Jeff Hecht, Dr. Stephen P. Kelner Jr., John P. Murphy (M), Laurence Raphael Brothers, Justin Key
Harbor II · 50 min · Panel
How do we determine whether an entity is intelligent, and what do these criteria say about artificial intelligences (AIs)? What is machine learning? How does it relate to true intelligence? Are current AIs the equivalent of idiot savants? Participants explore what could make an AI a person instead of a system. What technical breakthroughs have occurred (or need to occur) in order for us to ascribe intelligence to AIs?
2:00 PM
Horror in the 21st Century
Brett Savory, Tonia Thompson (M), Ellen Datlow, Deirdre Crimmins, Jack Haringa
Marina 3 · 50 min · Panel
Horror isn’t just a genre anymore. Long bleeding beyond its boundaries, today it positively infects the arts. Why and how has horror so influenced contemporary literature and cinema? And will horror define the coming century?
2:00 PM
The Power of Female Friendships
Kate Elliott, Gillian Daniels (M), Julia Rios, Brenda Noiseux, Erin Roberts
Marina 4 · 50 min · Panel
Stories featuring heroines like Wynonna Earp and Buffy Summers have given us strong female characters who aren’t dependent upon or eroded by romantic relationships. While formidable female friendships are becoming more common in SF/F/H literature and film, they are still rare. What other examples can we find? Why are they so striking and powerful? Why don’t we see more of them?
2:00 PM
Reading by Brenda Clough
Ms Brenda W. Clough
Griffin · 25 min · Reading
2:00 PM
Everything You Thneed: Climate Change and the Story of the Truffula Trees
Vandana Singh, Isadora Deese, Vincent Docherty, Steven Popkes (M), Muriel Stockdale
Burroughs · 50 min · Panel
Dr. Seuss’s story The Lorax could be the most enduring tale of climate change — but has it helped? We follow Vandana Singh’s talk with an open discussion. The summer of 2018 was the hottest on record; fire season has expanded into the Arctic; northern Africa has seen the relentless expansion of desertification; species are migrating to historically new areas on land and sea; ice is melting in all of the wrong places; and we’re experiencing the most powerful storms in history. As Margaret Atwood said, “It’s not climate change — it’s everything change.” Can the science-fictional imagination help us address the problem on a global scale? If so, how? Our panelists talk about sparking real change for lasting action.
2:00 PM
Song Circle: Fairy Tales
Batya “The Toon” Wittenberg (M)
Lewis · 50 min · Filk / Music
Join filker Batya “The Toon” Wittenberg, who leads this fairy-tale-themed song circle. Included are anything from Queen Meave herself to Tinkerbell and her more mischievous cousins! Song circles are a simple folk form in which singers take turns choosing songs to share and sing. Open to all ages and singing levels.
2:00 PM
Reading by Victoria Sandbrook
Victoria Sandbrook
Independence · 25 min · Reading
2:00 PM
Crusher Joe
Carlton · 135 min · Film/TV/Media
On a supposedly simple escort mission, Joe and his crew experience a failure during warp travel. They wake to find their passengers are missing. To make things worse, the United Space Force accuses them of committing space piracy, and Crusher HQ suspends their licenses for 6 months. To clear their names, they head out to the outlaw planet Lagol to find the person who hired them.
2:30 PM
Reading by Lauren Roy
Lauren Roy
Independence · 25 min · Reading
2:30 PM
Reading by Greer Gilman
Greer Gilman
Griffin · 25 min · Reading
3:00 PM
Feedback Session
Rick Kovalcik, Erin Underwood, Richard Duffy (M), Tim Szczesuil
Marina 4 · 50 min · Panel
This con is over, people. (Except for Dead Dog Filking—and of course teardown, where we’d love to have your help!) But we’re already working on Boskone 57. Help us get a good head start with reports on what went right (or wrong) this time, and how to achieve perfection next year.
3:00 PM
MASSFILC Meeting
Lewis · 50 min · Discussion Group
Business meeting for MASSFILC, the Boston-area filk association. Dead Dog Filking starts right after the meeting finishes.
4:00 PM
Dead Dog Open Singing
Lewis · 120 min · Filk / Music
Come share songs to close out the convention! Science-fictional or fantastic topics may predominate, but all songs are welcome. Come to sing or just to listen.