What do you think of when you think of conventions? Do you think of cosplayers decked out in geeky attire they made themselves? Or do you think of a local gathering of booths showcasing the latest infomercial gadgets?

While both of these are true examples of conventions, there is a more recent example I had in mind. Fall of 2015 I went to my first book convention. I didn’t know what to expect. I definitely knew there would be books there. And authors. And there were some discussion panels mentioned. But I couldn’t have guessed the amazing sense of community I found from attending this first book convention.

[image error]Again, last June I attended a book convention that was on an even grander scale. And yet again I was blown away by the amazing community I had been welcomed into without even asking. I wasn’t just at a convention, I was home! I continued to be home in this wonderful book universe online with all the friends and groups I’d become a part of.

Soon, both in June and in October, I get to see these awesome people again and feel that community in person! I can’t wait. Of course, I love talking with authors, readers, bloggers, and others online, but there is something about everyone coming together to talk books for a few days that makes the whole experience magical.

October is the Ozarks Indie Book Fest where I am an official blogger. Another first for me and again I don’t know what to expect. But I do know one thing that will definitely be present—my community. See you there?

Buy tickets and find more information about OIBF on their website! http://ozarksindiebookfest.com/

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