The Sidewise judges present the awards, then debate whether a book or story is alternate history or something else. What makes something alternate history instead of secret history? Is steampunk a subset of alternate history or does each story have to be examined on its own merits?
What happens when magic gets involved?

Science Fiction never blinks at incorporating events and icons of history...but when it comes to Steampunk, an argument is bubbling in boilers about what makes something "Steampunk" and what makes a work "Alternative History." What sets the two apart? Why can't Steampunk be considered part of the Alternative History genre? Why are authors hesitant to combine history with their fantasy? Where is the line (if any) between "Steampunk" and "Alternative History"? Authors discuss challenges, spirited debates, and fun in dancing between genres.