Fort Bend County Libraries invites comic-book lovers, costume enthusiasts, and animé superfans to a “Fort Bend Fandom” special event on Saturday, September 13, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at George Memorial Library at 1001 Golfview in Richmond.

The event will celebrate fandoms of all kinds – anime, manga, role-playing, and more – and will feature creators, artists, graphic novelists, performances, cosplay, and games for visitors of all ages.

Graphic novelist and cartoonist Huda Fahmy, along with “SubZero” creator Junepurr, will headline the event with a talk on the graphic novel industry at 10:30 a.m., in the Meeting Room. Hear about their paths to becoming accomplished creators, their creative passions and the publishing process.

Fahmy will also talk about her commitment to using humor for social change. An inspiring motivational speaker, Fahmy encourages others to pursue their passions and hobbies.

Fahmy is the author of the webcomic series “Yes, I’m Hot in This” and multiple graphic novels, including the popular Huda F series -- loosely based on her experiences growing up Muslim in America. In 2023, she was a finalist for the National Book Award for Young Adult Literature for her YA graphic novel “Huda F Cares?.”

Her work addresses the experiences of Muslim women in America, blending humor with poignant observations about identity, family, and self-acceptance amongst the Muslim community and other marginalized populations. In a light-hearted way, Fahmy’s webtoons use humor to address cultural misconceptions and increase awareness, leading to better understanding, empathy, and compassion.

Now a critically acclaimed author/illustrator, Fahmy began her career as an English teacher of middle school and high school students for eight years. She received her degree in English from the University of Michigan before eventually settling in the Houston area.

After her teaching career, she found her passion in graphic novels, which appeal to a wide audience, from school-age children to adults, including reluctant readers. She finds that web comics are a useful way to tell stories because they are short and to the point.

The creator of the Young Adult “romantasy” webtoon, “SubZero,” Junepurr is a self-taught artist who has been publishing webcomics since 2017. She received a degree in accounting from the University of Houston.

At 1:30 p.m., both authors will be available as part of an author panel discussion and Q&A session in Room 2A.

About the Fort Bend Fandom Event

Fort Bend Fandom is a free event celebrating the world of comics and gaming. It will feature a variety of activities for different ages, including pub-style trivia, classes on how to play Dungeons and Dragons, a performance in the amphitheater, a martial arts demonstration, chalk art, raffles and prizes,

food trucks, and even a cosplay contest in which participants are encouraged to show off their dazzling costuming skill and connect with others in the cosplay community. The deadline for registering for the cosplay contest is September 1. Registration is not required for the event.

Comic lovers will also have an opportunity to meet accomplished creators Huda Fahmy, Junepurrr, and others in the Artist Alley. Exhibitors will be on hand with comics, original art, toys, merchandise, cosplayers, crafts, table-top games, board games, video games, and more.

This event is free and open to the public. For more information, see the Fort Bend County Libraries website (www.fortbendlibraries.gov) or call George Memorial Library (281-342-4455) or the library system’s Communications Office (281-633-4734).