Michelle Hauck's Blog, page 78
March 23, 2015
PBParty 5: POOKY THURSDAY INVESTIGATES! THE LIZARD IN THE LIBRARY
Title: POOKY THURSDAY INVESTIGATES! THE LIZARD IN THE LIBRARYGenre: Chapter Book – Historical Fiction Mystery
Word Count: 9,500
Query:
Dear Michelle and Sharon,
As the 1920s roar through New York City, no one enjoys them more than 10-year-old adventuress Pooky Thursday. She dances the Charleston, explores the wilds of Central Park, and reads her way through the library at Banner Court, the city's most fabulous mansion. As the cook's daughter, Pooky must navigate not only the mansion's nooks, crannies, and secret passageways, but also the worlds of the downstairs staff and the upstairs swells.
One day, Pooky discovers a kid-size, lizard-shaped painting peeking out of the library's trash. What's a mystery but an adventure with a question mark? Pooky puts on her detective hat to question everyone from the butler to Commodore Banner himself, research reptilian facts in the chronicles of great explorers, and search for answers on what the painting means and who it belongs to.
Pooky is up to her knee socks in clues when Frank, the Banners' spoiled and stinky son, demands that she turn the lizard painting over to him. When Pooky refuses, Frank threatens to out her as a sneak thief to the Banners and, even worse, her mama. Now Pooky must find the mysterious owner of the painting and fast. Otherwise, she'll be branded a no good robber forever, and Frank will get his grubby little hands on the treasure.
POOKY THURSDAY INVESTIGATES! THE LIZARD IN THE LIBRARY is a 9,500-word chapter book. Please find the first 100 words pasted below.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
First 100 Words:
My name is Pooky Thursday. I am a modern girl in the world's most modern city – New York!
The city is the perfect place for an adventuress like me who likes to try new things. I track treasures at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, jiggle with the chorus lines on old Broadway, and ride the rails from one end of Manhattan to the other. Life here is the bee's knees and cat's pajamas all rolled into one!
I live in Banner Court, the fanciest mansion around. It sits across the street from Central Park. Some people call it the "House of A Thousand Rooms."
Word Count: 9,500
Query:
Dear Michelle and Sharon,
As the 1920s roar through New York City, no one enjoys them more than 10-year-old adventuress Pooky Thursday. She dances the Charleston, explores the wilds of Central Park, and reads her way through the library at Banner Court, the city's most fabulous mansion. As the cook's daughter, Pooky must navigate not only the mansion's nooks, crannies, and secret passageways, but also the worlds of the downstairs staff and the upstairs swells.
One day, Pooky discovers a kid-size, lizard-shaped painting peeking out of the library's trash. What's a mystery but an adventure with a question mark? Pooky puts on her detective hat to question everyone from the butler to Commodore Banner himself, research reptilian facts in the chronicles of great explorers, and search for answers on what the painting means and who it belongs to.
Pooky is up to her knee socks in clues when Frank, the Banners' spoiled and stinky son, demands that she turn the lizard painting over to him. When Pooky refuses, Frank threatens to out her as a sneak thief to the Banners and, even worse, her mama. Now Pooky must find the mysterious owner of the painting and fast. Otherwise, she'll be branded a no good robber forever, and Frank will get his grubby little hands on the treasure.
POOKY THURSDAY INVESTIGATES! THE LIZARD IN THE LIBRARY is a 9,500-word chapter book. Please find the first 100 words pasted below.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
First 100 Words:
My name is Pooky Thursday. I am a modern girl in the world's most modern city – New York!
The city is the perfect place for an adventuress like me who likes to try new things. I track treasures at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, jiggle with the chorus lines on old Broadway, and ride the rails from one end of Manhattan to the other. Life here is the bee's knees and cat's pajamas all rolled into one!
I live in Banner Court, the fanciest mansion around. It sits across the street from Central Park. Some people call it the "House of A Thousand Rooms."
PBParty 4: MILTON'S NAUGHTY PARENTS
Title: MILTON'S NAUGHTY PARENTSGenre: Fiction, HumorousWord Count: 350
Query:
Dear Agent,
I am seeking representation for my picture book manuscript, MILTON'S NAUGHTY PARENTS, and would very much like to work with you.
Written for ages 4-8, MILTON'S NAUGHTY PARENTS is 350 words in length. In a zany role reversal, little Milton must play the adult to his comically juvenile parents, who try his patience with their annoying antics. Milton's attempts at disciplining his mother and father are futile. Only after a stray dog appears does Milton find a way to transform his parents into responsible caregivers.
In addition to MILTON, I have several other picture book manuscripts that are ready for submission, including FERGUS FALLS UP, SNERKLE'S SLEEP EMPORIUM, and THE GREAT GOGGLEMOG.
My debut picture book, Otto Grows Down, was published in 2009 by Sterling with illustrations by Scott Magoon. My YA novel, Crashing Eden, was released in 2012 by Solstice Publishing. A TV pilot based on the novel just made the semi-finals of the Pilot Launch TV Script Contest.
I'm a clinical psychologist and have also published in the field of mental health. A Curious Calling: Unconscious Motivations for Practicing Psychotherapy was a main selection for America’s largest psychotherapy-related book club, and was released in 2007 as a paperback. I also edited A Perilous Calling: The Hazards of Psychotherapy Practice, published by Wiley.
I have pasted the first fifty words of MILTON'S NAUGHTY PARENTS below, and would be happy to send you the full manuscript. Most grateful for your time, I look forward to hearing from you.
They woke him at dawn.[Art note: Parents jumping on Milton’s bed.] Milton’s dad nearly broke a window sliding down the banister. And his mom made him cook blueberry pancakes. ...which his parents ate with their hands. It took nearly an hour to get them both dressed. Milton packed his parents' lunches.
Query:
Dear Agent,
I am seeking representation for my picture book manuscript, MILTON'S NAUGHTY PARENTS, and would very much like to work with you.
Written for ages 4-8, MILTON'S NAUGHTY PARENTS is 350 words in length. In a zany role reversal, little Milton must play the adult to his comically juvenile parents, who try his patience with their annoying antics. Milton's attempts at disciplining his mother and father are futile. Only after a stray dog appears does Milton find a way to transform his parents into responsible caregivers.
In addition to MILTON, I have several other picture book manuscripts that are ready for submission, including FERGUS FALLS UP, SNERKLE'S SLEEP EMPORIUM, and THE GREAT GOGGLEMOG.
My debut picture book, Otto Grows Down, was published in 2009 by Sterling with illustrations by Scott Magoon. My YA novel, Crashing Eden, was released in 2012 by Solstice Publishing. A TV pilot based on the novel just made the semi-finals of the Pilot Launch TV Script Contest.
I'm a clinical psychologist and have also published in the field of mental health. A Curious Calling: Unconscious Motivations for Practicing Psychotherapy was a main selection for America’s largest psychotherapy-related book club, and was released in 2007 as a paperback. I also edited A Perilous Calling: The Hazards of Psychotherapy Practice, published by Wiley.
I have pasted the first fifty words of MILTON'S NAUGHTY PARENTS below, and would be happy to send you the full manuscript. Most grateful for your time, I look forward to hearing from you.
They woke him at dawn.[Art note: Parents jumping on Milton’s bed.] Milton’s dad nearly broke a window sliding down the banister. And his mom made him cook blueberry pancakes. ...which his parents ate with their hands. It took nearly an hour to get them both dressed. Milton packed his parents' lunches.
PBParty 3: THE NOT-SO-SILENT E
Title: The Not-So-Silent E
Genre: Picture Story Book
Word Count: 640
Query:Dear Agent,In The Not-So-Silent E, Little E has a problem all children can understand: He just wants to be heard! He knows he should follow the rules, but it’s no fun and so hard. This 638-word picture book for ages 4-7 will appeal to young readers familiar with Little Pea, Spoon,Little Hoot and Little Oink—readers who will recognize Little E’s plight and will celebrate with him as he discovers that being a Silent E can actually be magical. I have included the first 54 words of the manuscript below for your consideration.The Silent E concept is a staple of kindergarten and first grade reading curriculum, so young readers will be familiar with the idea. The book should also find an eager audience among teachers and librarians. For as the School Library Journal pointed out in an article, educators are always looking for books that teach grammar and writing skills through fun and inspiring stories.As a freelancer who has written for children’s magazines for 18 years, I’ve had the challenge of introducing young readers to a wide range of topics and the thrill of hooking their attention with writing that’s both educational and entertaining. For Boys’ Life andNational Geographic Kids, I’ve covered everything Sent from my iPhone funny money facts to amazing animal pals. Several of my stories are included in the 2010-2015 editions of the National Geographic Kids Almanac as well as National Geographic Kids 125 True Stories of Amazing Animals.Over the past two years, I’ve been fortunate to expand into the children’s book market. I wrote “Angry Birds Explore the World,” the 96-page safari-themed bookazine for National Geographic Kids that published in July 2013. I’ve also written two nonfiction books for National Geographic Kids Books:*Weather, a Level 1 easy reader, which debuted in July 2013*From Seed to Plant, a Level 1 easy reader, which debuted in January 2014My third National Geographic Kids Books title will publish this summer. It’s titled Coral Reefs and is a Level 2 easy reader.I also have written hundreds of profiles, travel stories and book reviews for such grown-up publications as People, American Way, Family Circle, Sunset and Yankee, among many others.Thanks so much for your time and consideration. First 50 Words:From the moment Little E was born, his parents knew they were in for trouble.You see, Little E’s family came from a long line of silent Es. And silent Es live by two rules:
Always be quiet.Always know your place in line: Never first! Middle and last suit us fine.
Genre: Picture Story Book
Word Count: 640
Query:Dear Agent,In The Not-So-Silent E, Little E has a problem all children can understand: He just wants to be heard! He knows he should follow the rules, but it’s no fun and so hard. This 638-word picture book for ages 4-7 will appeal to young readers familiar with Little Pea, Spoon,Little Hoot and Little Oink—readers who will recognize Little E’s plight and will celebrate with him as he discovers that being a Silent E can actually be magical. I have included the first 54 words of the manuscript below for your consideration.The Silent E concept is a staple of kindergarten and first grade reading curriculum, so young readers will be familiar with the idea. The book should also find an eager audience among teachers and librarians. For as the School Library Journal pointed out in an article, educators are always looking for books that teach grammar and writing skills through fun and inspiring stories.As a freelancer who has written for children’s magazines for 18 years, I’ve had the challenge of introducing young readers to a wide range of topics and the thrill of hooking their attention with writing that’s both educational and entertaining. For Boys’ Life andNational Geographic Kids, I’ve covered everything Sent from my iPhone funny money facts to amazing animal pals. Several of my stories are included in the 2010-2015 editions of the National Geographic Kids Almanac as well as National Geographic Kids 125 True Stories of Amazing Animals.Over the past two years, I’ve been fortunate to expand into the children’s book market. I wrote “Angry Birds Explore the World,” the 96-page safari-themed bookazine for National Geographic Kids that published in July 2013. I’ve also written two nonfiction books for National Geographic Kids Books:*Weather, a Level 1 easy reader, which debuted in July 2013*From Seed to Plant, a Level 1 easy reader, which debuted in January 2014My third National Geographic Kids Books title will publish this summer. It’s titled Coral Reefs and is a Level 2 easy reader.I also have written hundreds of profiles, travel stories and book reviews for such grown-up publications as People, American Way, Family Circle, Sunset and Yankee, among many others.Thanks so much for your time and consideration. First 50 Words:From the moment Little E was born, his parents knew they were in for trouble.You see, Little E’s family came from a long line of silent Es. And silent Es live by two rules:
Always be quiet.Always know your place in line: Never first! Middle and last suit us fine.
PBParty 2: QUICO HELD TIGHT
Title: QUICO HELD TIGHTGenre: Fiction Picture BookWord Count: 540
Query:
Dear Michelle and Sharon,
Winner of the 2014 SCBWI–Los Angeles Writer’s Days Contest, QUICO HELD TIGHT is a multicultural picture book for ages 4–8 in 540 words. It’s filled with mayhem, mishaps, and, ultimately, bravery.
When Ana’s pet gecko, Quico, lands smack on Tía Marlina’s spectacles, the colorful characters from Ana’s Mexican village try to get the gecko to let go–but they only make matters worse. Ana knows how to release the reptile, but first she’ll need to work up enough courage to speak out over the rapidly growing crowd. She’d better do it quick, though, because a snake is lurking nearby with his own plans for Quico.
Like THE CAZUELA THAT THE FARM MAIDEN STIRRED by Samantha R. Vamos, QUICO HELD TIGHT unites an Hispanic community around a common goal. Instead of cooking up a delicious casserole, however, the characters of QUICO cook up one calamity after another–all at poor Tía Marlina’s expense. The slapstick humor of QUICO HELD TIGHT resembles that of DUCK DUCK MOOSE! by Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen, but where DUCK DUCK MOOSE! is about friendship, QUICO is about courage.
I am an SCBWI member and former preschool teacher, currently teaching Internet search strategy classes to homeschoolers of all ages. My writing has appeared inFamilyFun, The Homeschooler, The Los Feliz Ledger and other publications.
Thank you for your time.First 50 Words:
The weekly market in Ana’s Mexican village was in full swing. But Ana preferred to stay out of the crowd. While her family explored the crowded stalls, Ana lingered under the mango tree, training her pet gecko, Quico. “Uno, dos, tres,” Ana said. “Jump!” Quico launched himself onto a bright green mango.
Query:
Dear Michelle and Sharon,
Winner of the 2014 SCBWI–Los Angeles Writer’s Days Contest, QUICO HELD TIGHT is a multicultural picture book for ages 4–8 in 540 words. It’s filled with mayhem, mishaps, and, ultimately, bravery.
When Ana’s pet gecko, Quico, lands smack on Tía Marlina’s spectacles, the colorful characters from Ana’s Mexican village try to get the gecko to let go–but they only make matters worse. Ana knows how to release the reptile, but first she’ll need to work up enough courage to speak out over the rapidly growing crowd. She’d better do it quick, though, because a snake is lurking nearby with his own plans for Quico.
Like THE CAZUELA THAT THE FARM MAIDEN STIRRED by Samantha R. Vamos, QUICO HELD TIGHT unites an Hispanic community around a common goal. Instead of cooking up a delicious casserole, however, the characters of QUICO cook up one calamity after another–all at poor Tía Marlina’s expense. The slapstick humor of QUICO HELD TIGHT resembles that of DUCK DUCK MOOSE! by Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen, but where DUCK DUCK MOOSE! is about friendship, QUICO is about courage.
I am an SCBWI member and former preschool teacher, currently teaching Internet search strategy classes to homeschoolers of all ages. My writing has appeared inFamilyFun, The Homeschooler, The Los Feliz Ledger and other publications.
Thank you for your time.First 50 Words:
The weekly market in Ana’s Mexican village was in full swing. But Ana preferred to stay out of the crowd. While her family explored the crowded stalls, Ana lingered under the mango tree, training her pet gecko, Quico. “Uno, dos, tres,” Ana said. “Jump!” Quico launched himself onto a bright green mango.
PBParty 1: ADELAIDE'S SPARKLE
Title: ADELAIDE’S SPARKLE
Genre: Realistic Fiction/Special Needs
Word Count: 498
Query: Dear Michelle and Sharon,Adelaide dreams of stardom, but she can't sing, dance, or remember her lines like other kids can. However, she has something special. She has a sparkle, and it makes her shine like the star she truly is… But is it enough to get her on stage? In my 498-wordpicture book, ADELAIDE’S SPARKLE, you will witness the perseverance of a girl who does not allow her disability to slow her down. Adelaide has Down Syndrome, but that is only seen in the illustrator notes, and not preached through the manuscript.My picture book, Waiting for James in a Sea of Pink, was published in early 2012 with MeeGenius. It was a Golden Owl Award recipient, and spent several weeks as a best seller among MeeGenius’ listings. I am a SCBWI North/Central CA member, volunteer for the Epilepsy Foundation, active 12x12 member, volunteer for the We Need Diverse Books campaign, and graduate of the Institute of Children’s Literature.I very much look forward to hearing from you.
First 50 Words:Adelaide had something special. She had something very special, indeed.It wasn’t a pony.It wasn’t a divine necklace.It wasn’t something that came from a store.Adelaide had a sparkle.
Adelaide loved to dance. She wasn’t as graceful as the other girls on the Snazzy Jazzy dance team.
Genre: Realistic Fiction/Special Needs
Word Count: 498
Query: Dear Michelle and Sharon,Adelaide dreams of stardom, but she can't sing, dance, or remember her lines like other kids can. However, she has something special. She has a sparkle, and it makes her shine like the star she truly is… But is it enough to get her on stage? In my 498-wordpicture book, ADELAIDE’S SPARKLE, you will witness the perseverance of a girl who does not allow her disability to slow her down. Adelaide has Down Syndrome, but that is only seen in the illustrator notes, and not preached through the manuscript.My picture book, Waiting for James in a Sea of Pink, was published in early 2012 with MeeGenius. It was a Golden Owl Award recipient, and spent several weeks as a best seller among MeeGenius’ listings. I am a SCBWI North/Central CA member, volunteer for the Epilepsy Foundation, active 12x12 member, volunteer for the We Need Diverse Books campaign, and graduate of the Institute of Children’s Literature.I very much look forward to hearing from you.
First 50 Words:Adelaide had something special. She had something very special, indeed.It wasn’t a pony.It wasn’t a divine necklace.It wasn’t something that came from a store.Adelaide had a sparkle.
Adelaide loved to dance. She wasn’t as graceful as the other girls on the Snazzy Jazzy dance team.
PBParty Agent Round!
YOU CAN COMMENT TONIGHT TO CONGRATULATE. I'LL CLEAN OUT THE COMMENTS IN THE MORNING BEFORE THE AGENT ROUND.
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I don't have enough words to say how much I've enjoyed this contest. The entries just blew Sharon and I away. They are beyond adorable, heart touching, hilarious, sweet and informative. I don't know about Sharon, but I felt like I was in the middle of a group love hug while reading them. I wish I could highlight all of them on my blog.
Please remember that contests are so subjective. Some entries attracted me more than others, that's just the nature of publishing. We had over forty more entries favorited in the maybe folder or starred as something special. The entries in this contest are just that good. I'm sure there will be much success for this group, whether your entry is picked today or not.
Commenting on entries is for agents only. If you'd like to cheer or rave about a favorite, please hop over to twitter at the hashtag #PBParty. The party continues there as we celebrate and support our fellow writers.
Thanks to everyone who entered. I hope to have another PB contest this summer. Stay tuned to the blog for future news.
PBParty 9: OPERATION BREAKFAST IS SERVED
Title: OPERATION BREAKFAST IS SERVEDGenre: fiction PBWord Count: 615
Query:
Dear Sharon and Michelle,
I’m pleased to offer you my 615-word picture book, OPERATION BREAKFAST IS SERVED, for ages 4 to 8.
When the zoo food truck breaks down, three animal Picky Eater Agents plan the perfect op to rescue breakfast before their cover is blown. OPERATION BREAKFAST IS SERVED includes optional nonfiction back matter about animal picky eaters, known as food specialists.
I am the author of SCIENCE FAIR SUCCESS! and USING THE SCIENTIFIC METHOD for Rourke Educational Media (2014). I’ve written 13 more books for the school and library market, which will appear in 2015-2016. I am a member of SCBWI and the 12 x 12 Picture Book Challenge.
I look forward to hearing from you. Thank you for your time.
First 50 Words:
[Illo note: Agent K is a koala. Agent P is a panda. Agent Daisy is a three-toed sloth.]0637 hoursLocation: Picky Eaters Animal Preserve“Something’s fishy,” Agent K said, peering through night-vision goggles.“Maybe you smell the blue whale’s krill,” Agent P said. “He’s got his chow. But where are the shoots and leaves?”
Query:
Dear Sharon and Michelle,
I’m pleased to offer you my 615-word picture book, OPERATION BREAKFAST IS SERVED, for ages 4 to 8.
When the zoo food truck breaks down, three animal Picky Eater Agents plan the perfect op to rescue breakfast before their cover is blown. OPERATION BREAKFAST IS SERVED includes optional nonfiction back matter about animal picky eaters, known as food specialists.
I am the author of SCIENCE FAIR SUCCESS! and USING THE SCIENTIFIC METHOD for Rourke Educational Media (2014). I’ve written 13 more books for the school and library market, which will appear in 2015-2016. I am a member of SCBWI and the 12 x 12 Picture Book Challenge.
I look forward to hearing from you. Thank you for your time.
First 50 Words:
[Illo note: Agent K is a koala. Agent P is a panda. Agent Daisy is a three-toed sloth.]0637 hoursLocation: Picky Eaters Animal Preserve“Something’s fishy,” Agent K said, peering through night-vision goggles.“Maybe you smell the blue whale’s krill,” Agent P said. “He’s got his chow. But where are the shoots and leaves?”
PBParty 8: EUGENIE CLARK DREAMS OF SHARKS
Title: EUGENIE CLARK DREAMS OF SHARKS
Genre: Picture Book Biography
Word Count: 500
Query: Dear Agent,
I am seeking representation for my picture book biography entitled, EUGENIE CLARK DREAMS OF SHARKS, for ages 4-8, complete at 500 words (count does not include back matter).
In the 1930s, a young Japanese American girl named Eugenie Clark dreams of exploring the ocean like her hero, William Beebe. Her mother suggests she pursue a safer career. With remarkable courage and determination, Eugenie sets out to realize her dreams and change the public's perception of sharks. This is the true story of Dr. Eugenie Clark, the first scientist to train sharks.
As an underrepresented female scientist, I am particularly touched by Dr. Clark's story. Although I am a debut author of children's books, I have published several scientific papers and book chapters. I am an active member of SCBWI.
Thank you so much for your consideration and I look forward to hearing from you.
First 50 Words:
Eugenie pressed her face against the glass. She imagined herself flying underwater.
Every Saturday morning, Eugenie visited the aquarium while her mother sold newspapers next door. The shark tank was her favorite.
On days she did not visit the aquarium, Eugenie's thoughts were always with fish. She drew pictures of fish at school.
Genre: Picture Book Biography
Word Count: 500
Query: Dear Agent,
I am seeking representation for my picture book biography entitled, EUGENIE CLARK DREAMS OF SHARKS, for ages 4-8, complete at 500 words (count does not include back matter).
In the 1930s, a young Japanese American girl named Eugenie Clark dreams of exploring the ocean like her hero, William Beebe. Her mother suggests she pursue a safer career. With remarkable courage and determination, Eugenie sets out to realize her dreams and change the public's perception of sharks. This is the true story of Dr. Eugenie Clark, the first scientist to train sharks.
As an underrepresented female scientist, I am particularly touched by Dr. Clark's story. Although I am a debut author of children's books, I have published several scientific papers and book chapters. I am an active member of SCBWI.
Thank you so much for your consideration and I look forward to hearing from you.
First 50 Words:
Eugenie pressed her face against the glass. She imagined herself flying underwater.
Every Saturday morning, Eugenie visited the aquarium while her mother sold newspapers next door. The shark tank was her favorite.
On days she did not visit the aquarium, Eugenie's thoughts were always with fish. She drew pictures of fish at school.
PBParty 7: ALIEN HUNT
Title: ALIEN HUNT
Genre: Fiction Picture Book
Word Count: 160
Query:
Dear Michelle & Sharon,
In 160 words, ALIEN HUNT is a lyrical picture book that keeps readers guessing, “Quirky neighbor or… alien?”
Brie, Ben, and Bigglebee set out to explore, convinced an alien lives down the street. While the curious group makes new alien-like discoveries, readers are privy to an insider’s view that looks nothing out of the ordinary… Are imaginations running wild, or does an alien live there?
I have included the first 50 words below and attached an illustration sample. For more examples of my work, please visit sheriroloff.wordpress.com.
I am a member of SCBWI and have been a full-time copywriter since 2009. Beyond writing, making art and music have been an important part of my creative pursuits. I live in Milwaukee, Wisconsin with my husband, a growing assortment of art supplies, and an untrustworthy but handsome cat.
Thanks so much for hosting the PB Party event and taking the time to consider ALIEN HUNT. I look forward to hearing from you.
First 50 Words:
Brie, Ben, and Bigglebee
Hand in hand in paw
Tip toe sneak
Down the dead-end street
Toward the house that slumps like a shadow…
“Do you see that?”
“Alien lights!”
Brie, Ben, and Bigglebee
Hand in hand in paw
Tip toe sneak
Where the weeds grow tall
Close to the crooked house wall…
Genre: Fiction Picture Book
Word Count: 160
Query:
Dear Michelle & Sharon,
In 160 words, ALIEN HUNT is a lyrical picture book that keeps readers guessing, “Quirky neighbor or… alien?”
Brie, Ben, and Bigglebee set out to explore, convinced an alien lives down the street. While the curious group makes new alien-like discoveries, readers are privy to an insider’s view that looks nothing out of the ordinary… Are imaginations running wild, or does an alien live there?
I have included the first 50 words below and attached an illustration sample. For more examples of my work, please visit sheriroloff.wordpress.com.
I am a member of SCBWI and have been a full-time copywriter since 2009. Beyond writing, making art and music have been an important part of my creative pursuits. I live in Milwaukee, Wisconsin with my husband, a growing assortment of art supplies, and an untrustworthy but handsome cat.
Thanks so much for hosting the PB Party event and taking the time to consider ALIEN HUNT. I look forward to hearing from you.
First 50 Words:
Brie, Ben, and Bigglebee
Hand in hand in paw
Tip toe sneak
Down the dead-end street
Toward the house that slumps like a shadow…
“Do you see that?”
“Alien lights!”
Brie, Ben, and Bigglebee
Hand in hand in paw
Tip toe sneak
Where the weeds grow tall
Close to the crooked house wall…
PBParty 6: THE ROOT OF THE CUBE
Title: The Root of the Cube
Genre: Non-fiction Picture book Rhyme
Word Count: 350
Dear Michelle and Sharon
I hope you will consider my picture book The Root of the Cube for your Picture and Chapter Book Party. It is written for children ages 7-10 and is 350 words of comic verse. I have included the first 50 words at the end of this email.
It starts when an ice cube's thrown out on the breeze.It's the tale of the trip that he makes to refreeze.From solid to liquid to gas - H2O no! From the ground to the air, it's the Water Cycle Flow.
This is a good physical science manuscript (the water cycle) that is balanced with a cute ice cube (the “cuddle factor”).
I have been writing for children for years. I attend two critique groups and love nothing better than getting my next story idea. About five years ago, I started writing in comic verse. Last spring, I joined an online critique group specializing in rhyming picture books. I currently have a picture book app on Demibooks Storytime entitled Police Hens which I wrote and illustrated. Here is a link to more information about Police Hens, and a link to my youtube booktrailer.
Thank you for taking the time to read my story.
50 Words
The Root of the Cube
I was born in a tray on a shelf in a freezer in the home of a wrinkled and hot handed geezer. With a sister, ten brothers, no Mom and no Dad, we joked with the peas ‘bout the fish going bad.
Every so often that hand would appear,
Genre: Non-fiction Picture book Rhyme
Word Count: 350
Dear Michelle and Sharon
I hope you will consider my picture book The Root of the Cube for your Picture and Chapter Book Party. It is written for children ages 7-10 and is 350 words of comic verse. I have included the first 50 words at the end of this email.
It starts when an ice cube's thrown out on the breeze.It's the tale of the trip that he makes to refreeze.From solid to liquid to gas - H2O no! From the ground to the air, it's the Water Cycle Flow.
This is a good physical science manuscript (the water cycle) that is balanced with a cute ice cube (the “cuddle factor”).
I have been writing for children for years. I attend two critique groups and love nothing better than getting my next story idea. About five years ago, I started writing in comic verse. Last spring, I joined an online critique group specializing in rhyming picture books. I currently have a picture book app on Demibooks Storytime entitled Police Hens which I wrote and illustrated. Here is a link to more information about Police Hens, and a link to my youtube booktrailer.
Thank you for taking the time to read my story.
50 Words
The Root of the Cube
I was born in a tray on a shelf in a freezer in the home of a wrinkled and hot handed geezer. With a sister, ten brothers, no Mom and no Dad, we joked with the peas ‘bout the fish going bad.
Every so often that hand would appear,
