This past Easter weekend, I spent three days at Minicon 56, a science fiction convention in the Twin Cities. One of the oldest science fiction conventions in the Midwest, I had never attended this convention before, either as a vendor or a guest. Not only was this new, but this was my first multi-day book event since before Covid. Needless to say, I was excited.
The Table
My primary reason there was to be author-man. I had an eight-foot table with electricity, which was more than enough space for my two books. My location was at a corner, so I was starting down a long edge of the dealer’s area.
I set up my picture frame with the wallpapers scrolling through angled to be visible from either direction and my recruiting poster visible down the long approach. I had my ‘Library of the Renaissance’ display up (the real books that Sasha reads during the series), my array of cards and fliers, and then my books themselves.
With all this space I had enough room to have my laptop out, so I could work in my downtime. Which was great, because over the course of three days, I certainly had enough of it.
The People
The other vendors in the room were a mix of more established writers, sellers and craftsmen, and a few first timers. As I’ve always found, everyone was friendly, happy to discuss their tables and projects. It’s always fun to be around eager and inventive people. I met with science fiction and fantasy writers, jewelry makers, and a podcaster who covers cryptids.
The guests of Minicon were a standard mix of longtime convention goers, newer attendees, and everything in between. I saw some Manticon and TRMN people I recognized from my first conventions (and some of them recognized me as well). It’s been a long time since I’ve done anything the TRMN, but I still remember them being a fun group.
During my time at my table, I got to speak with a lot of people who came up to find out about my book. Some of them got drawn in by the artwork. Some of them came in because of the ‘Library of the Renaissance’. And some talk to every author in the room to find out about their books. I had people buy my book, or decide it wasn’t for them.
The ‘Library of the Renaissance’ got a bit of interest. Grant’s Memoirs sparked a few conversations, as did Art of War and Laura Cereta’s Letters. Red Badge of Courage not only sparked conversation, but someone got upset over the book. I’m still not clear on why; I’m not sure he was clear on why I had it out. Overall, the Library idea went over well, with the only thing I would do differently is add a ‘not for sale’ sticker to the books so people understand it’s a display.
The Panel
One other exciting experience from the weekend was my first official panel, with microphones and a name plate and everything. The topic was ‘Writing the Twin Cities.’ Now, I had two reasons to be nervous. First, public speaking, always a worry of mine. Second, while my books are set in Minnesota, they’re post apocalyptic. I was worried that might come off poorly.
Turns out, every author up there destroyed at least part of the Twin Cities. I guess it’s not uncommon. I’m sure there’s a master’s thesis about why somewhere out there.
The panel itself went well. I answered a few questions about writing in Minnesota, and how I treated historical landmarks. The last half of the discussion got into the various tunnels and caverns of the Twin Cities, which I know nothing about, so I didn’t get to say much there. But that happens.
Overall, I’m glad I got to participate, but I do have to work on my presentation. I thought I kept rambling while trying to get my thoughts in order. Not too bad, but enough I want to work on it.
Conclusion
I absolutely loved the convention. It was a blast, with great sales, great people, and more than enough time to work on my projects. I have already registered for next year, and I’ve promised myself that I will have at least one more book on my table.
Minicon 57, here I come.
