We writers sit alone most day writing. That's how it works. Lately I've been putting more effort into getting connected with readers and other writers, both for my sanity and to build that dreaded but apparently all important 'platform'.

Conferences are great for new and more experienced writers. I have gone to the SIWC (Surrey International Writers Conference) (www.siwc.ca) in Vancouver for the past two years in October and it is worth every penny. It is truly international and, I keep being told, one of the best (3 best?) in North America. I am lucky to be able to stay with my daughter, although it is an average of one hour drive each way to her apartment in Vancouver's West End. But I'm not complaining.

You read this all the time in How to Write books, go to conferences to meet agents. As a not terribly outgoing person I thought sure, how exactly? Won't they be talking to people they already know or people much more outgoing than me? In case you are new to this let me explain. You can sign up for a 10 minute pitch session with an agent (or more than one if you are prepared to line up for additional appointments, as I do) and talk to them about your book. How? There is lots of material out there about pitching, but basically prepare a blurb explaining the point of the book in half the time you are allowed. That leaves time to talk. It has worked for me and I have good luck meeting agents this way. The workshops are terrific too, how-to by some of the best in the business.

For those interested in Mystery - check out the Bloody Words Conference, put on by the Crime Writers of Canada, this year in Victoria BC, Vancouver Island June 3-5 2011.(www.bloodywords2011.com) They have an amazing list of speakers and guests, including Micheal Slade, Tess Gerritsen and William Deverell as guests of honour. I have signed on as acting volunteer coordinator so I hope to see you there.

If you are in other parts of the country or the world, check for conferences in your area, they are everywhere, or come to beautiful Victoria for the spring flower show, resident Orcas and, oh yes, the conference.

Till next time. Judy