Page 12 Friday, September 2, 2011 Longboat Key News

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“Mystery Florida: A Conference to Die For” is an event “where the pen is mightier than the sword…a knife, poison and even a really big gun.” Readers and writers gathered at Sarasota’s Hyatt Regency last weekend to find out how to more efficiently and correctly get away with murder, including great tips from five FBI agents.

Agents of another genre, those that help writers find a publisher, were on hand as well to give pointers on how to get an agent to read your manuscript (don’t send query emails in the morning rather about 4:30 p.m. in the afternoon, even on Friday, and keep them short, sweet and business-like). If you have a quirky, unique

character that would lend itself to a television series, say so, keeping in mind that agents are “transactional,” always thinking “can I sell this idea right now?”

Dr. Carol Henderson, attorney and a recognized authority in scientific evidence, law and ethics, pre-sented a lecture describing “Fauxrensics and Forensics,” which explained how the “CSI Effect” puts a false spin on the science of forensics. She spoke of the Casey Anthony trial from her point of view, as well as the important role of Forensic Anthropologists and new technology. She is presently the director of The National Clearinghouse for Science, Technology and the Law at Stetson University College of Law.

The publishing industry is making moves to be a part of the digital realm. Manuscript submissions are all digi-

tal, and you can even self publish your own eBook using a free format provided by Amazon. Author James Swain researched the evolutionary shift and now sells his self-published eBooks via his smartphone.

“It is a tool — a cultural shift,” he said. “Anything you want to read is just a click away. Instant gratification.”

Swain recommended Steven King’s book “On Writing” as one of the best books on how to write.

Adding a light-hearted touch, Tim Dorsey regaled the crowd with stories about his book tour signing episodes, and P.J. Parrish told of the time her only attendee at a book signing was a homeless man who came in to get

out of the rain. In a session called “Icons & Influences,” Longboat Key’s H. Terrell “Terry” Griffin credited his wife as a great influence on his work.

“I listen to my wife of 47 years because I’m scared of her,” he said.

Icons mentioned included locals John D. McDonald and John Jakes.

Longboat Key Library and Tingley Memorial Library in Bradenton Beach are the recipients of profits from this annual event. For more information about Mystery Florida or to take part in the informal Writers’ Roundtables on Longboat Key, email kko2637@hotmail.com.

Mystery explained at writers conference

Jeanne Corcoran, director of Sarasota County Film & Entertainment office, and author Gayle Lynds.

LBKN Special/Karen O’Dowd

Dr. Carol Henderson, director of The National Clearinghouse for Science, Technology and the Law at Stetson University College of Law.

LBKN Special/Karen O’Dowd

Author Tim Dorsey with a conference attendee.LBKN Special/Karen O’Dowd

Author James Swain and volunteer John ShanahanLBKN Special/Karen O’Dowd

KAREN O’DOWDContributing Columnistodowd@lbknews.com

Author and law enforcement officer James Forrest and aspiring author Josie Freedman.

LBKN Special/Karen O’Dowd

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