And that means another Girl's Guide, though belated since the fun has already begun...
Today kicks off the MWA's annual symposium, now expanded to two days and dubbed "Crime Fiction University." Lee Child, S.J. Rozan, Harlan Coben and Nelson DeMille are among those tapped to teach on topics ranging from "credible characters in credible worlds" to breaking into screenwriting to the meat of writing thrillers. Then from 6 PM on, the Mysterious Bookshop hosts the launch party for the MWA's newest anthology THE BLUE RELIGION, edited by past president Michael Connelly. It's also the first year there won't be a party at the late, lamented Black Orchid bookshop, but I suspect any bittersweet feelings will be superceded by the wine and cheese at Otto's place.
Tomorrow the Symposium continues, starting with the First Novel nominee panel hosted by Executive VP Harry Hunsicker and also featuring Doug Lyle, Katherine Ramsland and Cyril Wecht talking forensic science and later, a slew of literary agents advising would-be writers on what to do (and what not to do) when submitting manuscripts or chatting with them at the Agents & Editors party later on that day. As usual, no crashing - attendance will be strictly monitored and enforced.
Thursday is the big night, with cocktails at 6 and Al Roker hosting - so maybe the record-breaking quickness of last year's ceremony will be superceded this time around! Whatever happens, from who wins to who is dressed the best, I'll be blogging it live on the MWA's website. I'll be sitting up front tapping away on the gargantuan laptop that is my lifeline.
Friday means that Edgar Week is done, but PEN World Voices is still on - so crime aficionados should be sure to check out S.J. Rozan's "Mean Streets" panel at 5 PM featuring Christian Jungersen, Jo Nesbo, Roberto Saviano and Juan Gabriel Vasquez.
Happy Edgars, everybody!
Were you hesitant to accept the gig live blogging during the ceremony? Good exposure, but it seems incredibly tacky. I hope your tablemates don't strangle you!
Posted by: Paul | April 29, 2008 at 12:49 PM
I don't think it seems tacky at all. I'm just envious because I can't be there. I'm depending on Sarah for constant updates so I don't die of hunger for info, and I think her tablemates should be grateful for her presence. Plus which, they can yell things to her to include. Sounds like a good time to me....
Posted by: Cornelia Read | April 29, 2008 at 01:06 PM
Not a tacky cushion in sight - great for folks not at the event, or seperated by an ocean to hear what's happening.
Amazing that you're able to do this Sarah - excellent will be raising a glass to you!
and please let me know about what everyone is wearing in terms of footwear
Ali
Posted by: ali | April 29, 2008 at 02:31 PM
Paul - not sure I follow. Awards are liveblogged all the time, officially or unofficially.
Posted by: Sarah | April 29, 2008 at 03:27 PM
It's not tacky in the least. Especially since she's doing for the MWA on their site.
Posted by: JonJordan | April 29, 2008 at 06:59 PM
Sitting here in the UK watching lashing rain, am I permitted to be more than a litle envious?
Please? Pretty please?
LOL.
Look forward to being there vicariously through the blogging. Have a great time !
Posted by: Ray-Anne | April 30, 2008 at 04:46 AM
Actually, the really tacky thing is Sarah's outfit. Would you believe fucking knickerbocker socks? That's fucking tacky. And I think we should prevent this upstart from even ATTENDING the Edgars so long as she sticks with these goddam socks!
Posted by: ed | April 30, 2008 at 06:25 PM