AWP PROGRAM: “Writing Bad Ass and Nasty Women,” with Luanne Smith, Pam Houston, Kim Addonizio, Ann Hood (editor of Providence Noir), and Bonnie Jo Campbell. We long for empowered women, especially in today’s political climate. Writing such women, though, is not about capturing Wonder Woman on the page. At times, kicking butt, breaking laws, hearts, and balls is necessary for the work, but at other times, the woman simply stands her ground and wants control over her own choices and body. The writers on this panel have given us bad ass women in their writing and sometimes been surprised by the reception. What is bad ass today? No cuffs required.

Program will take place in Ballroom D, Tampa Convention Center, First Floor.