BookCon returns to New York City after a pause due to COVID, with ReedPop organizing the event at the Javits Center on April 18 and 19. The schedule features author panels, workshops, and interactive sessions focused on books and pop culture. Organizers describe it as an event for readers, by readers.
ReedPop is reviving BookCon, its annual event combining pop culture and books, following a hiatus after the COVID pandemic. Set for April 18 and 19 at the Javits Center in New York City, the two-day gathering will include author panels, exhibit halls with bookish vendors, workshops, book signings, and interactive activities.
The schedule highlights several panels. On Saturday, April 18, at 11 a.m. on the Main Stage, 'Game Changing TV: Celebrating Heated Rivalry' will discuss book adaptations with author Rachel Reid and showrunner Jacob Tierney. Also at 11 a.m., in Room 408-410, a spotlight on Tomi Adeyemi will cover her forthcoming novel, The Siren. In Room 1A23-24 at the same time, 'The Power of Storytelling: The Joy of Queer Escapism and a Celebration of Trans and NB Voices' features authors Aiden Thomas, Casey McQuiston, and Kate Bornstein discussing representation in literature. At 12:30 p.m. on the Main Stage, bestselling author R.F. Kuang will share insights on her career and works including Katabasis, Yellow Face, and The Poppy War.
On Sunday, April 19, at 2 p.m. in Room 408-410, 'We Tell Our Own Stories: Indigenous Authors Claiming Space and Reimagining the Future' includes Rebecca Roanhorse, Darcie Little Badger, and Moniquill Blackgoose. Concurrently, in Room 1A01-02, 'Narrating Blockbuster Audiobooks' brings together narrators Julia Whelan (Great Big Beautiful Life), Helen Laser (The Wedding People), Joniece Abbott-Pratt (The Marvellers), and Rebecca Soler (Fourth Wing) to discuss audiobook performance.
Attendees can also participate in book trivia, puzzles, and how-to classes such as fore edge painting and map making. ReedPop faced criticism in late January over ties to LexisNexis, which provides data tools to Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and issued a response. For full details, visit the BookCon website.