Join The Writer's Digest Conference July 31 2015- August 2, 2015

Another Writer's Digest Annual Conference is almost here and we've been busy putting the finishing touches on what I think will be the best program I've been a part of yet. And lucky you—you still have until tomorrow at midnight to join me at the Early-Bird price! So explore the program and speakers and start planning your writing getaway. Here are some of my picks for can't-miss sessions and activities this July 31 –August 2 in New York City: FRIDAY     Opening Keynote | Jonathan Maberry | 6:00 - 6:50 PM While it's important for us all to have a realistic picture of publishing, I can't help but feel discouraged sometimes when the industry talk turns negative. That's why I just know Jonathan Maberry is going to be a great keynote: He's all about positivity. I'm already anticipating the great energy in the room! 7 Steps to Stronger Middle Grade and Young Adult Novels | Gabriela Pereira | 3:00 - 3:50 PMNot much is hotter than YA right now, but writing a great book for this audience requires different muscles than one for the grown-up crowd. DIY MFA founder Gabriela Pereira will take you step-by-step through the process. Writing a Mystery: A Crash Course | Hallie Ephron | 4:00 - 4:50 PMAttendee favorite Hallie is here to "demystify the art and artifice" of writing a mystery. Sign me up!     SATURDAY     Agent Pitch Slam | 1-Hour Sessions Throughout the DayYear after year, we hear success stories of writers whose book deals start at the Writer's Digest Pitch Slam. Who will stand out to our eager crop of agents this year? We can't wait to find out! How to Become a Regular Contributor to Any Publication | Jessica Strawser | 1:10 - 2:10 PMThis conference isn't just about publishing books-and every type of writer can benefit from the platform building power of seeing their bylines in print. Together with my co-presenters Susan Shapiro (whose bio speaks for itself) and accomplished magazine editor and freelance writer Zac Petit, we'll arm attendees with strategies for building their bios (and their bank accounts). Cocktail Reception | 5:30 - 7:00 PMWho doesn't look forward to a good cocktail party? This is where attendees have a chance to mingle with presenters and connect with one another, and it's the perfect way to cap our action-packed Saturdayof sessions.     SUNDAY     Self-Publishing on a Shoestring: Where to Skimp and Where to Splurge for Maximum Exposure | G.P. Ching | 9:00 - 9:50 AMThis is THE question we hear again and again from writers who are considering the indie publishing path. The chance to dig into this topic with such a knowledgeable source is sure to be a goldmine for attendees. Sticking the Landing | Jacquelyn Mitchard | 11:10 - 12: 00 PMYour characters may be compelling, your setting transportive, but a book that nails the ending is what really ensures it lingers in the mind of your reader. And The Deep End of the Ocean author Jacquelyn Mitchard aims to let you in on her secrets. Nail By Nail: A Carpenter's Guide to Building the Debut Bestseller at Midlife | Tim Johnston | 12:10 - 1:00 PMTim Johnston will be discussing how he built a career as an author while building houses for a living. Turns out crafting houses and stories share some pretty fundamental similarities. He'll also be discussing how he learned to write in a way that challenges readers—inspiring you to do the same.     Remember, you've only got until tomorrow at midnight to get all of this—plus a whole lot more—at the lowest price we're offering. I hope you'll take the leap and make your plans today!