Attend Richmond’s 9th Genre Fiction Symposium!
Author: Richmond American University London
Richmond University will once again bring together some of the most exciting voices in fantasy and speculative fiction for Under Trembling Stars: The 9th Richmond Genre Fiction Symposium, taking place on 20th November from 10am–4:30pm.
This year’s symposium features a remarkable line-up of international writers, critics, filmmakers, and academics whose work continues to shape the future of genre storytelling. It is organised by the International Programmes team as part of Richmond’s Literature/Film class on Fantasy and Horror. A full timetable will be available in the event programme and at the bottom of this piece.
World-Leading Voices in Speculative Fiction
We are honoured to welcome John Clute, one of the world’s foremost authorities on science fiction and fantasy, award-winning critic, and co-editor of the Encyclopaedia of Science Fiction—a landmark reference work for the field. His insights into the evolution of genre literature have influenced generations of scholars and readers.
Richmond’s own community is strongly represented as well, including Dr Jon Mackley, Adjunct Assistant Professor and author of Britain’s Flying King, who brings expertise in medievalism and myth-making; and emerging scholars and writers Rhys Crawford and Yasmine Orru, who continue to push the boundaries of the genre through their research.
We are particularly proud to welcome back Richmond alumnus Lavie Tidhar, one of the UK’s most significant contemporary fantasy authors. Tidhar won the World Fantasy Award in 2012, famously beating George R. R. Martin, and his works have been praised worldwide for their innovation and literary ambition.
The symposium also highlights Richmond’s international partnerships and industry opportunities. Charles Bunce, Professor at our partner university in Los Angeles, Mount St. Mary’s—where many of our students participate in regular exchange programmes—will join the panel discussions.
In addition, a special session will be led by a Hollywood producer and director, who will discuss the making of his recently released Netflix film, The Death of Snow White, offering students an insider’s view of contemporary genre filmmaking.
Under Trembling Stars promises to be an inspiring day of conversation, creativity, and connection—celebrating the vibrant worlds of science fiction, fantasy, and beyond, and showcasing the global networks that enrich the Richmond student experience. If you wish to attend, please go to Seminaor Room 11 on campus at Chiswick Park.
Symposium Timetable
