Convention Preview

Furry fandom—an adult social group interested in anthropomorphic animals in art, literature and culture—has grown since the 1980s to include an estimated 50,000 “furries.” Their largest annual convention drew more than 6,000 attendees in 2015, including 1,000 dressed in “fur suits” or mascot-type animal costumes. Conventions typically include awards, organizations, art, literature and movies, encompassing a wide range of creative pursuits beyond animal costuming. This study of the furry subculture presents a history of the oft-misunderstood group and lists all conventions around the world from 1989 through 2015, including organizers, guests of honor and donations to charity.

"Determind to build 'the finest hostelry in the Southwest, ' Joplin's first millionaire spared no expense on the magnificent Connor Hotel. The lobby, with its Italian marble rotunda and grand staircase, would serve as the city's main gathering spot for the next fifty years. Thousands flocked to the rooftop garden, which became known as the 'most pleasant spot in all Joplin.' ... Local residents rallied to 'Save the Connor' in the 1970s but could not stop its demolition and the tragic ending that caught the nation's attention."--Back cover