2nd Annual Upper Peninsula Writer's Symposium Tickets

Ticket includes keynote speaker address by renowned author Sue Harrison, three of the six informative breakout sessions, panel discussion, lunch and refreshments. PICK YOUR BREAKOUT SESSIONS Please choose one blue, one teal and one green session from each of the add-ons to reserve your seat. If you do not choose your add-ons in advance, you will be assigned a breakout session based on availability. Keynote Address by Sue Harrison

Breakout 1 - Session 1 • 11:00 - 11:50 AM AI for Authors: Writing Smarter, Not Harder Presented by: A.R. Vagnetti Writing a book is just the beginning—promoting it can feel like a whole new challenge. In this beginner-friendly session, discover how AI-powered tools can not only streamline your writing and editing process but also help you market your book more effectively. Learn how AI can assist with brainstorming ideas, improving your drafts, and automating time-consuming tasks like writing social media posts, crafting compelling book descriptions, and generating engaging email newsletters. Whether you're polishing your manuscript or planning your book launch, this session will introduce AI solutions that enhance creativity, boost productivity, and simplify your promotional workflow—so you can focus on what you do best: writing.

Breakout 1 - Session 2 • 11:00 - 11:50 AM Self-Publishing 101: From Manuscript to Marketplace Presented by: Debbie Frontiera Thinking about self-publishing but not sure where to start? This session will walk authors through the entire self-publishing process—from writing and self-editing to publication and promotion. Learn the key differences between self-publishing and traditional publishing, best practices for preparing your book for print, how to find and work with an editor, and the essentials of cover design and layout. Explore the different publishing formats, including ebooks and audiobooks, and gain insider tips on book marketing and running your own publishing business. Whether you're a first-time author or looking to take control of your publishing journey, this session will give you the knowledge and confidence to bring your book to life.

Breakout 2 - Session 1 • 1:00 - 1:50 pm The Power of Setting: Building Worlds Readers Want to Live In Presented by: Joseph D. Haske A great setting is more than just a backdrop—it’s a living, breathing part of your story. Whether you're writing historical fiction, fantasy, or contemporary novels, a well-crafted setting can transport readers, shape characters, and heighten emotional impact. In this session, learn how to create immersive, dynamic settings that draw readers in and make them feel like they’re truly part of the world you’ve built. Discover techniques for weaving setting into your narrative, using sensory details to enhance atmosphere, and making place a powerful tool for storytelling. Whether your novel takes place in a distant galaxy or a small-town café, this session will help you bring your world to life.

Breakout 2 - Session 2 • 1:00 - 1:50 PM The Power of Less: Crafting Concise, Authentic Poetry Presented by: Ellen Lord 
In this session, we’ll explore the art of writing concise yet impactful poetry that reflects your authentic voice. We will discuss various forms of the poem such as: free verse, haibun, and haiku. Learn how to uncover techniques to distill emotions and ideas into their purest, most resonant forms with the goal of generating a portfolio of poetry.

Breakout 3 - Session 1 • 2:00 - 2:50 PM Getting Started With Audiobooks: Bringing Your Story to Life in Audio Presented by Brandi Thomas Audiobooks are a booming industry, offering authors a powerful way to reach new audiences. But how do you turn your book into a professional-quality audiobook? In this session, we’ll walk you through the entire audiobook creation process, answering key questions like: Why should I make an audiobook? Should I hire a narrator or record it myself? How long does production take, and what does it cost? Learn about finding the right voice for your book, distribution platforms, and how to get your audiobook in front of listeners. Whether you're an indie author or traditionally published, this session will demystify the process and help you take the next step toward an audio edition of your book.

Breakout 3 - Session 2 • 2:00 - 2:50 PM How to Shoot, Write, and Self-Publish Your Photo Book Presented by: Wayne Pope A picture may be worth a thousand words, but a well-crafted photo book tells an unforgettable story. Join photographer and author Wayne Pope as he walks you through the entire process of creating and self-publishing your own photo book. Learn how to plan your project, capture compelling images, write engaging narratives, and design a layout that enhances your visual storytelling. Wayne will also cover essential self-publishing steps, from selecting the right printing options to marketing and selling your book. Whether you're a photographer, writer, or artist looking to showcase your work, this session will equip you with the tools and knowledge to bring your vision to life.