Beyond Reality discussion

Does anybody know of any good conventions for lovers of science fiction and fantasy? I'm looking for one that's primarily for sci-fi and fantasy writers and readers and not one that's about film or toys. I live in the NY, NJ area. Any help?

(Moved from Group Business folder t0 General SF&F discussion folder.)

Does it need to be in NY/NJ? Readercon in Burlington, MA is the best sort-of local con of the kind you seek.

Paul wrote: "Does it need to be in NY/NJ? Readercon in Burlington, MA is the best sort-of local con of the kind you seek."

It would be preferred. I went to Lunacon in upstate New York and I felt out of place. Those people were much deeper into sci-fi than I was. Are there any more casual sci-fi conventions, do you know? Thanks for responding.

Depends on what you mean by "deeper". If it's a con that's geared towards books rather than other media then I suppose it's going to feature a lot deeper content and more obscure (at least to the general public) authors and books. Casual conventions (as far as I'm concerned) are too weighted towards movies, TV, gaming and the dealer room. Lunacon was a decent one I attended once or twice -- went to a lot of good panels and talks there. Of course you've been there and it's not for you. Try Balticon in (obviously) Baltimore, MD. Although I've never been, I have a close friend who goes all the time and being a would-be published author as well as voracious reader, it works for her. Plus it's also got the other media stuff if you're so inclined to watch an afternoon of upcoming film trailers and such.

Paul wrote: "Depends on what you mean by "deeper". If it's a con that's geared towards books rather than other media then I suppose it's going to feature a lot deeper content and more obscure (at least to the g..."

Wow! Thanks so much! Baltimore is close enough to me. I really appreciate it.

Late to the topic. The NYCC is a really huge genre convention. I attend every year and I've had the opportunity to meet a lot of really great sci fi and fantasy authors. Year before last I met Joe Abercombie, which was a highlight for me. I never walk away with less than a backpack of signed books. All the major sci fi publishers have booths there with signings and events.

In addition there are all the games (which go hand in hand for me), the comics and the artist alley at Comic con is huge. A great feature.

Even later to the topic...
Readercon and Capclave are both focused on the literary rather than the broader definitions of SF.
I'm going to my first Balticon this year.