The Basics of Steampunk

The “Beginner’s Guide to Alternate History, Steampunk, and Other Subgenres” panel in the Westin Augusta 1–2, Friday 11:30AM, featured a knowledgeable group from various backgrounds prepared to answer questions posed to them by the audience. This panel discussed the difference between alternate history, steampunk, and/or dieslepunk. All of this and how to get started was covered. Costuming makers and authors of steampunk were also present and contributed their insights. It was a true orientation to the world of speculative fiction.

The first part of the session started with some background information and explanation on the origins of these genres. Each panel member contributed to this history lesson, as well as their own insights as to how it impacted their choices for dress here at the con. The second half of the session consisted of a Q & A from audience members.

This was the panel to attend if steampunk interests you. One of the panel members said it best: “There is no real wrong with steampunk. Nine times out of ten you are going to be right. The tenth time you will be exceptional.”

Author of the article

Award-winning author Amanda Faith may have been raised in Dayton, but her heart and home is in the South. With a lifelong love of teaching and writing, she had plenty of encouragement from teachers and friends along the way. Loving a good puzzle has always been a fascination, and writing gives her the outlet to put all the pieces together. Being adventurous and loving to try new things, it wasn’t long before her characters found themselves in unusual situations. She loves to put people from two different worlds into new situations and to see how they interact, taking them on journeys they would never have normally experienced. Her current adventure working as a high school English professor turned Media Specialist, writing, and doing paranormal investigations doesn’t slow her down from having a great time with a plethora of hobbies. Her published credits include several short stories, poetry, several journal articles, her doctoral dissertation, and her award-winning book Strength of Spirit. With multiple degrees, she has a passion for learning and exploring new venues. She is a staff writer for The Daily Dragon at Dragon Con. Check out her new website (www.amandafaith.net) or on Instagram (@dramandafaith)