Book Review: A Guide to Film and TV Cosplay
A Guide to Film and TV Cosplay by Holly Swinyard
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Fan conventions can be daunting, even for people like me who have been to more than a few. It’s helpful to have a con-savvy friend who lets you in on all the good survival tips before you go. And that’s especially important if you’re planning attend as a cosplayer.
Holly Swinyard is that friend. This chatty, conversation-style book will help novice cosplayers learn costume building basics, as well as techniques to achieve the cosplay costume of your dreams.
And once that costume’s done, Holly doesn’t leave you hanging. You’re going to be wearing that costume in public and that comes with its own set of challenges. How do you ride the bus in costume? What about snacks during a long day? What do you do with your belongings while you’re striking fabulous poses in the lobby? And most importantly, what can you expect—and what should you not tolerate—from those admiring your work… and possibly your body, too?
If you’re a con-goer but not a cosplayer, you too should read this book. It will help you better understand what goes into the creation of those costumes you’re admiring. And you’ll gain insight into how you should treat cosplayers with the respect, support and acceptance they deserve.
On a personal level, learning that foam clay exists and what it can do just totally made my day.
My thanks to author Holly Swinyard, NetGalley, and Pen & Sword for allowing me to read a digital advance review copy of this book. This review is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Lori Alden Holuta
Lori Alden Holuta lives between the cornfields of Mid-Michigan, where she grows vegetables and herbs when she’s not writing, editing, or playing games with a cat named Chives.
