Create your own kingdom or planet in this workshop. Learn from panelists about the basics of a society and how to make a protagonist that is ready to run it. Then, put pencil to paper and create your own world to rule.
L.J. Melvin (M), Leslie Lutz, A. L. Kaplan, Erin M. Evans, Liz Argall
Northwest Speculative Reading: Norwescon 2026
8:00pm – 10:00pm @ Cascade 9
Northwest Speculative returns again for this exciting reading event, featuring a wide-ranging group of authors reading excerpts from their newest work.
G.R. Theron (M), Kate Ristau, Phoenix Bourgeois, Dean Wells, Tara Campbell, Lauren C. Johnson, Megan Lee Bees, Richard Flores IV, Cyrus Amelia Fisher, Neena Viel, Remy Nakamura, A. L. Kaplan, Diana Ma, Libby Schultz
When I’m not in panels, I’ll be wandering around. Just look for Fifi on my shoulder.
Sometimes it’s hard to be who you are meant to be.
Especially when your powers can get you killed.
Eighteen-year-old Tatiana is running from her past and her star-touched powers eight years after a meteor devastates earth’s population.
Her power to heal may be overshadowed by more destructive abilities. Fleeing the persecution of those like her, Tatiana seeks refuge in a small town she once visited. But this civil haven, in a world where society has broken down, is beginning to crumble.
Only by harnessing the very forces that haunt her can Tatiana save her friends…and herself.
It’s Hanukkah, and Dragon is helping his family celebrate.
Have you ever made latkes or played dreidel? Come join the fun as Dragon makes latkes and lights the menorah. Then play the dreidel game and see where it lands!
Young Maya bears the mark of the moon goddess, a sign that would doom her to be sacrificed in her village where the death god is revered. Forced to dye her golden eyes dark, Maya lives in constant fear of discovery. To save her family and the village’s future, she must find the courage to stand up to the high priest before he can bring the death god into this world.
Plagued by memories not her own, a young hummingbird struggles to decipher the visions and powers that set her apart from her fellow birds. But the road to awareness is fraught with danger that could doom her to repeat history.
Gifted with the ability to wolf-talk, Kara has lived with the wolves since she lost her memories eight years ago. Now at sixteen, snippets of her past send her searching for answers.
But the warm welcome she receives in the human village hides more danger than life with the pack.
In light of recent events, its even more important to remember Dr. King’s contribution to our country.
“I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up, live out the true meaning of its creed: ‘We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.’”
“I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character. I have a dream today!”
“Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred. We must forever conduct our struggle on the high plane of dignity and discipline. We must not allow our creative protest to degenerate into physical violence.”
6:00 PM – Poisons, Plots, and Potions: Inside the Apothecary Diaries
BOARDROOM
Step into the intrigue of the imperial court with The Apothecary Diaries! Follow Maomao, a sharp-tongued apothecary turned reluctant court lady, as she unravels mysteries with wit, science, and sass. Join fellow fans to talk about the show’s blend of history, medicine, and romance—and why it’s one of the smartest, most addictive anime of the decade.
— Haily Piper * Edward McKeown * A L Kaplan
9:00 PM – The Eye of Argon: The Greatest Horrible Story Ever Told!
DOGWOOD 1
It’s infamous. It’s absurd. It’s possibly the worst sci-fi story ever written—and that’s exactly why we love it. Watch (and join!) as our fearless panelists attempt to read The Eye of Argon aloud without laughing, tripping over typos, or collapsing in melodramatic agony. Audience participation encouraged—especially when the acting starts. Think you can keep a straight face? We dare you. — Jim & John Gaines * Wayland Smith * A L Kaplan * Drema Deoraich
Saturday, January 24
1:00 PM – Disney Villains Muahahaha!!!!!!
DOGWOOD ½
From wicked queens to smooth-talking schemers, Disney villains have stolen scenes — and our hearts — for decades. Join us as we debate who’s truly the best baddie and whether they’re actually evil… or just a little misunderstood. Bonus points for dramatic evil laughter. — Grig Larson * A L Kaplan * Tera Fulbright * Uncle Grayhawk
5:00 PM – Farscape at 25: Still Frelling Amazing
BOARDROOM
No show in the Uncharted Territories like it. Celebrating a quarter-century of wild characters, rich worldbuilding, and puppets with attitude. Panelists share behind-the-scenes stories, favorite episodes, and why Farscape still feels fresh. — Mike Pederson * Dennis Myers * Kevin A. Davis * A L Kaplan
Sunday, January 25
10:00 AM – Character Development & Inspiration
BALLROOM D
Where do great characters come from? This panel dives into finding inspiration, shaping unique personalities, and the little ways pieces of yourself sneak into your creations. Whether you write heroes, villains, or something in between, we’ll explore how to make characters feel real — and unforgettable. — Dennis Myers * Hailey Piper * Crymsyn Hart * Richard C. White * Melissa Scott * A L Kaplan * David Simms
