I was the moderator for the nonfiction author panel at Let’s Just Write: An Uncommon Writers Conference, Chicago Writers Association’s first annual conference. My session ran like a well-oiled machine.
First, it was cool managing the conversation between the authors and the audience. I made sure it was interactive and conversational. I asked the audience if they wanted to ask questions throughout the discussion or at the end. They said throughout; the authors agreed that it was alright to do so.
My questions and bios were prepared at least a week prior to the event and I had time to practice. Also, I had individual conversations with each author prior to the event to learn more about them and build rapport.
Second, I tried to ask targeted questions based on their bios. I also tried to ask relevant follow-up questions based on the author’s responses.
Third, I appreciated the diversity of my panel – age and talent. Fred Mitchell (right) was the first black sports journalist at the Chicago Tribune in 1974; the paper started in 1847. Ethan Michaeli (middle) worked at the Chicago Defender, Chicago’s oldest black newspaper from 1990 – 1996; he’s white and Jewish. David Fisher has written fiction, nonfiction, reference books, video games, humor – you name it – and has worked with many celebrated Americans.
Lastly, what breathing woman could not appreciate being surrounded by highly intelligent, gifted and talented men???
The only thing that could have been different was my closing. We went over time and I didn’t get a chance to let people know how to find the gentlemen online or where to purchase their books.
Fortunately, there was a book signing later that day and attendees were able to speak to them then.
Overall, it was a great event and even greater experience. Check out CWA’s Facebook group for more images and details about the conference. You can also find information on Twitter and Instagram by searching #justwrite2018.
Many thanks to Jennifer Brown Banks, an unsung writer and fellow CWA Board Member for the pic below and my two seconds of fame on her blog, Pen & Prosper.
Image credits: Samantha Hoffman, Jennifer Brown Banks