Tao Wong aims for Toronto Indie Author Conference to demystify business of self-publishing

In the dynamic landscape of indie publishing, the name Tao Wong is synonymous with innovation and community. The Canadian author, a trailblazer in the realms of fantasy and science fiction, has become an inspiration for independent authors everywhere through his influential works in GameLit and LitRPG. Wong’s storytelling prowess is best encapsulated in his acclaimed series The System Apocalypse and A Thousand Li, which have been translated into German, Spanish, Portuguese, and Russian, and have captivated readers worldwide in formats from print to audio to ebook.

Since turning full-time indie author in 2019, Wong has not only constructed fictional universes – he has built and fostered a space for learning and growth among his peers in the indie author community. This process began with his own development: “I’ve visited numerous publishing conventions throughout the world, hoping to learn about the industry,”  And his vision and commitment have led directly to the first-ever Toronto Indie Author Conference (TIAC), a two-day event on May 4 and 5, 2024 that is dedicated to empowering Canadian indie authors. 

TIAC stems from Wong’s profound desire to “bring the information on self-publishing that I was exposed to in the States and other countries to Canada” – in order to illuminate the myriad paths to indie publishing success. The conference focuses on providing “essential education and networking opportunities, eliminating the need to venture beyond our borders for specialized knowledge.” At its core, TIAC aims to deliver top-tier, Canadian-specific content through a rich program featuring a wealth of Canadian speakers. Through the conference, experts in our local literary landscape will share insights and strategies that address the unique needs of the indie author community  in Canada.

Wong has a clear long-term vision for TIAC: “We hope to expand the conference, run multiple workshops, and add both craft and business topics to the event itself”. Eventually, the aim is to make it a “touchpoint for all authors” at all stages of their careers. 

But “right now, we’re focused on the business of publishing, as that is what we find most lacking in the current conference circuit in Canada itself.” To curate a lineup that reflects the best in publishing wisdom, Wong and his team are prioritizing “the best knowledge possible” over nationality — although a strong emphasis is being placed on Canadian content where possible. And the innovative use of roundtables facilitates a rich exchange of ideas, ensuring the conference’s offerings remain as diverse and valuable as the community TIAC serves. “During these sessions, topic experts will host various individuals at their table, answering questions as they are raised,” Wong explains. “However, anyone at the table may speak to a question, allowing the dissemination of information across the group, as well as allowing more experienced authors to focus directly on their issues.”

Asked to pick out a highlight of this year’s TIAC program, Wong indicates that he is personally excited about Sylvia Frost’s talk on cover design. “She discusses covers in a very knowledgeable but digestible manner, as well as how to work with a cover designer, which is rather important,” he notes. “If there’s one thing that sells a book to start, it’s the cover!” Wong smiles, and this is just one example of the conference’s focus on practical, actionable insights.

Asked for a personal indie reading recommendation, Wong suggests Ebony Gate by Julia Vee and Ken Bebelle. Set in San Francisco, the tale adroitly mixes Asian mythology in an urban fantasy world. “Can’t wait for the second book!” he enthuses. 

Through TIAC and all of his efforts and interests, Wong reveals himself to be not just a creator —  but a cheerleader and fan of other indie creators, a builder of community, and a curatorial force for good in the indie author community, guiding and inspiring his peers towards their own tales of success.

The inaugural Toronto Independent Author Conference will take place on May 4 and 5, 2024 at the Central YMCA in Downtown Toronto. Click here for detailed information and to register.

© Arpita Ghosal, SesayArts Magazine, 2024

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