Can you say distinction without a difference?

From CNN.com's review of the new Tolkien novel:

But they were truncated and contradictory. Outside of Tolkien scholars and Middle-earth fanatics, few read them.

Speaking of the literature, a friend of mine is helping to put together a lefty sci-fi convention in Chicago this summer. I'm thinking about going, and I know that Neal is intrigued. Any other geeks out there?