So Loncon came and went, and despite my deep and abiding loathing for ExCel (about which I can rant for hours; it’s still a nightmare for anyone with walking difficulties) I am glad to say the organisers and staff of the 2014 World SF Convention did everything they could to make it a stand-out convention – not least the second biggest WorldCon ever. And how wonderful to see so many old chums, from all over the world, all in one place to celebrate the best in science fiction and fantasy writing and art. That’s what conventions are all about.
Even the Hugo Awards went pretty well, and I was thrilled to be there to see Ginjer Buchanan win the Best Editor Award – not before time, for she’s just retired: a legendary publisher with a string of hits to her name.
Best party locale had to go to Voyager, who celebrated George R>R> Martin, Robin Hobb and Jane Johnson (huzzah!) on top of the Gherkin with the most amazing views of London, even through the rain. The Orbit party views weren’t too shabby either. But of course, the highlight had to be JFB’s fourth birthday party – with *balloons* and specially designed *badges*! And a *cake*! And a *magician*! And a *face painter* – who was enjoying it so much she stayed much later than she’d been booked . . .
So a big thank-you, not just to the behind-the-scenes team, but to the JFB team too: Nicola and Andy, you did good!*
Jo
**And I’m glad I bought you the badge-making machine . . . Watch this space for the next JFB badges . . .