Friday, August 17, 2007

Countdown to Barry

Every community has its own signs of impending autumn. Parents understand that summer is drawing to its end when they start shopping for school supplies and peanut butter alternatives for lunches. Amateur mycologists know that fall is upon them when they pluck the first shy chantrelles from their sylvan hiding spots.

What about enthusiasts of mystery fiction? For many of us, the first taste of fall comes with the knowledge that Bouchercon, the most important date on the crime-fiction calendar, is just a few dry leaves and a span of cloudy sky away.

And while Bouchercon--to be held this year from September 27 to 30 in Anchorage--is still more than a moment away, the ballot deadline for the Barry Awards is much closer.

Barry winners are selected by readers of Mystery News and Deadly Pleasures. The victors will be announced and presented during Bouchercon.

We ran a complete listing of the nominees--as well as a rundown of the award--last month. Meanwhile, if you’re the lucky holder of a Barry ballot, get that puppy in prior to August 24 to make sure your voice is heard.

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