The worlds of fantasy and sci-fi have suffered from a lack of diversity for many decades, despite the wonderful contributions of authors like Gene Roddenberry, Octavia Butler, N.K. Jemisin and Ursula K. LeGuin.
This problem has seen some major strides in recent years, and yet some authors are still unsure of how to be more inclusive in their storytelling. There are some tricky issues of cultural appropriation and respecting the unique experiences of underrepresented groups in world-building; I would like to share my work from my book, The Wonderous Science, to illustrate how these issues can be tackled in creative ways.
From researching and using historic elements to ground characters, to adding diverse settings, we’ll discuss how to communicate with readers from a wide variety of cultural backgrounds.
Join your Portland and Salem chapters online on Wednesday, February 2nd, from 7:00 to 8:30PM for this discussion with Brian W. Parker.
About Brian W. Parker
Author, Illustrator, and Creator of the Fantastical, Brian grew up in Alaska, then Mississippi, and has always been in love with storytelling in every medium. He earned a BFA in graphic design & illustration and an MA in writing & publishing, and now spends his days working in youth publishing (so cool, right?) through his company, Believe In Wonder, which he co-owns with his wife. He is the author of Crow in the Hollow, You Can Rely on Platypi, and co-author of Obi The Changeling, The Epic of Nicholas the Maker, and The Wonderous Science.
Believe in Wonder
https://believeinwonder.weebly.com/
How to join us
Register in advance for this meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAsd-itqDIqHtwDUDCns2BC7idouuT2dyOg
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
About your chapter
Willamette Writers meetings are open to all writers, 18 and up. Young writers are encouraged to join our Young Willamette Writers meetings. Guests are welcome to make a donation to help support the cost of the meeting (we believe in paying our speakers for their time and skills). This meeting is run by volunteers. We look forward to seeing you there!
To find out more about the Salem Chapter of Willamette Writers, visit
https://willamettewriters.org/salem/
To make a donation...
https://willamettewriters.org/donations/
