Two of the world’s leading writers of epic fantasy – Tamora Pierce (Song of the Lioness, Protector of the Small) and Brian McClellan (The Powder Mage trilogy) – join Library Director of Programming Steven Woolfolk for a discussion of their work and the evolution of the fantasy genre. Pierce began writing fantasy fiction for teenagers and young adults in 1983. In 2013, she was awarded the Margaret A. Edwards Award by the American Library Association for “significant and lasting contribution to young adult literature.” McClellan won the Morningstar Award for Best Fantasy Newcomer for his first book, Promise of Blood, in 2013. The event serves as the kickoff for the 74th World Science Fiction Convention, held August 17-21 in Kansas City. Details at www.midamericon2.org.