Just this morning, before I dragged myself from my cocoon of blankets, I was turning over the idea from the last post about how to host an online author event. It’s chilly and rainy here, so I had plenty of time to ponder before I ventured forth from bed.

What do I need in an author event?

Well, first off, I’d like the ability to interact. I’ve considered Zoom, Facebook, Flipgrid, and finally wandered across Twitch. I know it’s primarily a video game streaming platform, but I’ve been reading in a few places that it can be more.

I would also like to allow people easy access to my live stream. I’ve mulled over the different options.

Twitch won’t allow the video interaction that Zoom would, but I also don’t need to send out invites. Facebook only applies to ‘friends’ and so would eliminate folks I’ve only met in passing at conventions. Flipgrid seems to be more akin to leaving video messages for each other. Which brings me back around to Twitch.

I’m not going to say it’s the best option at the moment, but it seems to have the ability to allow anyone to drop in for the event. People can join the chat and I’ll do my best to answer questions. I think I can also put videos and graphics behind me while I’m talking.

All that to say, I’m going to try Twitch out this Friday at 6.

Look for ZachisWriting as my handle.

I plan to talk about Genesis and maybe I’ll read an excerpt from Trinity, so get your questions ready. I’ll talk about just about anything in the Atom & Go universe. Feel free to ask questions about the writing process.

I hope to see you all there. I also hope that I can make this a semi-regular event. Perhaps readings and discussions will happen, or talks of the life of an author. If you guys are really lucky I’ll get into other topics of discussion like board games, cooking, books in my library, movies to see . . .

In the meantime, I’ll keep editing and writing. You guys keep reading, go for some fall hiking, and most importantly, keep on flying the black.