Frank Hood sold his first story at age 26 then spent 40 years as a software engineer, from punch cards to AI. He documented that career in his first book A Geek's Progress, and pPublished his first novel Advance Guards in September 2025. His second novel, A Child's Uneven Scrawl, is expected in 2026. He has published multiple short stories spanning science fiction, fantasy, horror, and mystery. He's well known for his ability to explain how AI really works to general audiences. He writes about whatever strikes his fancy from history, travel, science, humor, and social commentary at frank-hood.com.
AI is advancing at a rapid pace, from art generation to decision-making systems. But where should we set ethical boundaries? Will AI ever achieve true consciousness, and if it does, what rights should it have? Join the discussion on how AI is shaping our future.
Writers love a dramatic death scene, but some are far more memorable than others. In this After Dark panel, a group of authors discuss the most brutal, inventive, and unforgettable character deaths in fiction. From historical execution methods to wildly imaginative storytelling, the panel explores what makes a fictional demise truly shocking. Expect dark humor, literary examples, and plenty of spirited discussion.
Stories across myth and fiction warn that wishes rarely turn out the way we expect. Tales like King Midas, the Sibyl’s cursed immortality, and countless Twilight Zone episodes show how a poorly worded wish can spiral into disaster. This panel explores the long tradition of wish-granting gone wrong and why storytellers love the twist. Could you craft a wish that would not backfire?
What elements from the "Golden Age" of science fiction continue to captivate audiences today? Panelists explore timeless classics and why these stories still resonate with modern readers and viewers.