As regular readers of this blog know, I have been intimately involved in the planning for ITW's inaugural ThrillerFest writers and readers conference. News of what you can expect during the weekend (June 29-July 2) is starting to trickle out, so here's what I can share at this point:
The event kicks off on Thursday afternoon with the writer's craft workshops. There will be eight sessions (two tracks, four sessions each), all taught by top-name thriller authors. Classes include "Writing the Big Thriller," "Common Mistakes Writers Make In Dialogue" and "Writing the Thriller Screenplay."
Following the craft workshops will be Doug Preston's Spotlight Interview with Jim Fusilli. After that, there will be a Welcome Reception sponsored by MIRA and featuring a signing of the Thriller anthology.
Friday features a ton of panels (four tracks worth, running simultaneously). Among them will be Tess Gerritsen's "Crime Scene Extravaganza" and "The Jack Reacher Trial" (starring Lee Child.)
Friday also has the RL Stine lunch, and the evening features David Morrell's presentation on his novel, First Blood, with a special screening of the film.
Saturday will start with Sandra Brown's Spotlight Interview, followed by a series of Special Ops workshops (seminars on Knife Fighting, Delta Force, Street Fighting, the CIA, etc.). There will also be a slew of panels running most of the day.
The afternoon will feature a Spotlight Interview with Brad Meltzer, followed by the star-studded charity auction. Saturday night will be the Thriller Awards Banquet.
Clive Cussler will receive the first ever ITW Lifetime Achievement award. Clive will give a talk, mingle with fans and sign books.
Sunday concludes with the final panel presentations, followed by Brunch with John Lescroart.
So far I haven't been able to confirm it, but I've heard a rumor that there will also be a lot of drinking done. I'll keep you posted on that one.
The line-up of panels won't be announced until late-April, but you can see the authors who will be in attendance on the conference website. (There are some very cool panels planned, rest assured.)
All in all, I think it's going to be a blast! I hope you'll be able to join us.
