Strike up the band! Sharpen your pencils! It’s time to show the world that:
MAGIC HAPPENS WHEN YOU MAKE EVERY WORD COUNT
Today is the day, dear friends! Ready! Set! Go!
The #50PreciousWords 2019 Writing Contest is now OPEN!
For those of you who have not participated before, let me give you a bit of back story. March 2nd is the birthday of the incredible Theodore Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss. For the last three years, I’ve hosted a little contest based on Bennet Cerf’s challenge to Seuss to write a children’s book using only 50 words. To answer that challenge, Seuss wrote Green Eggs and Ham. It’s true that the story has over 700 words…but only 50 unique words.
In 2016, I thought it would be fun to try to write a story for kids with ONLY 50 words. With a beginning, a middle, and an end. I wondered if I could do it. And then I opened the challenge to everyone. Much to my surprise and amazement, there were 128 entries! The next year, there were 253 entries. And last year, there were 298.
To backtrack a bit, in 2012 I had a dream. I wanted to write picture books. And I wanted to be traditionally published.
And one of the most important things I did was to participate in writing challenges like Susanna Hill’s contests.
Why was that important?
Because it got me writing. It got me revising. It got me submitting.
Hmmm….writing/revising/submitting. I believe that if we do those three things enough times, our writing improves and agents and editors get a chance to see our work. And as much as I am thrilled with my own success, nothing makes me happier than to hear about the success of others in our kidlit community.
So, please sharpen your pencils. Fire up your computers. And share your #50PreciousWords with us.
#50 PRECIOUS WORDS WRITING CHALLENGE GUIDELINES
- Write a story appropriate for kids ages 12 or under, using only 50 words…they can all be different words, or you can use some of them over and over…just as long as the total word count of the story is 50 or less.
- It can be prose, rhyme, free verse, silly or serious…whatever works for you.
- Title is not included in the word count.
- No illustration notes please.
- IMPORTANT: Post your story in the comment section below. If you have your own blog and want to post your story there also, please do. And let us know your post link. I ask for the link so that people will visit each other and find new friends in the kid lit community. But no matter how many other places you want to post your story, make sure at least one of those places is in the comment section of this blog post…and please make sure you put your name in the post because some of you have very creative emails/avatar names and I won’t know who you are. If you have any trouble at all posting the story, please email me and I will be happy to do it for you: viviankirkfield@gmail.com.
- Deadline for posting the story in the comments is Wednesday, March 6, at 11:59pm. And if you plan to ask me to post it for you, please send it at least the day before.
- As many of you know, I am in New Zealand right at this moment on a round the world trip of a life-time. I am hoping to announce the winners on March 16th, but I ask for your patience and understanding in case something comes up and it doesn’t happen that day. Also, although I will be posting the winners on March 16th, I won’t start awarding the prizes until after I return home, on April 8th. But believe me, these prizes will be worth the wait!
- When I do start contacting the winners, 1st place will choose whichever prize he/she wants. Then I will contact 2nd place with the remaining prizes to choose from. And so on down the line. And here, for your dining and dancing pleasure are the wonderful prizes.
- A critique from Storm Literary Agency partner Vicki Selvaggio who is one of the finest agents and loveliest people I know.
- A picture book or chapter book or MG critique with Clear Fork editor Callie Metler-Smith.
- A seat in Susanna Leonard Hill’s MAKING PICTURE BOOK MAGIC: This is the first picture book writing class I took in February 2014..it was a stellar foundation and it has served me well. Susanna is an amazing mentor and a seat in her class can be life-changing!
- A seat in Mira Reisberg’s Children’s Book Academy class on HUMOR – how to find it in your heart and how to write it into your picture books. I have not taken this class yet…but I know I should: https://childrensbookacademy.teachable.com/p/let-s-get-funny-writing-humor-for-kids1
- A complimentary viewing of Alayne Kaye Christan’s latest webinar: Top Ten Reason’s for Rejections.
If you want tips on some corrective action that you might take to improve your chances of submission success, and/or if you would like to deepen your understanding of plot and arc, this webinar is for you.
Alayne Kay Christian is the content and developmental editor for Blue Whale Press and an award-winning children’s book author. She is the creator and teacher of a picture book writing course, Art of Arc. She has been a professional picture book and chapter book critique writer since 2014. And worked as a critique ninja for Julie Hedlund’s 12 X 12 for three years. Alayne is a graduate of the Institute for Children’s Literature and she has spent the last eleven years studying under some of the top names in children’s literature.
- Picture Book manuscript critique from author Lindsay Metcalf
Photo courtesy: Anna Jackson Photography
Lindsay H. Metcalf is a children’s author, poet, reporter, and former editor for The Kansas City Star. She will debut with two nonfiction picture books in 2020. In the fall of that year, Charlesbridge will release Taking the Mic: Fourteen Young Americans Making History, a poetic anthology co-edited by Lindsay, Jeanette Bradley, and Keila V. Dawson, and illustrated by Bradley. It features fourteen contemporary young activists, each spotlighted by a well-known poet. Subjects include literacy activist Marley Dias, water protector Jasilyn Charger, Scout for Equality founder Zach Wahls, and immigration reformer Viridiana Sanchez Santos. Contributors include Nikki Grimes, Joseph Bruchac, Lesléa Newman, and Guadalupe García McCall. Details about Lindsay’s second nonfiction picture book will be forthcoming. To learn more about her books and paid critique services, please reach out on lindsayhmetcalf.com or on Twitter @lindsayhmetcalf.
- Picture Book manuscript critique from author Melissa Stoller.
Melissa Stoller is the author of the chapter book series The Enchanted Snow Globe Collection – Book One: Return to Coney Island and Book Two: The Liberty Bell Train Ride (Clear Fork Publishing, 2017 and 2019); and the picture books Scarlet’s Magic Paintbrush and Ready, Set, GOrilla! (Clear Fork, 2018). Upcoming releases include Return of the Magic Paintbrush and Sadie’s Shabbat Stories (Clear Fork, 2019). She is also the co-author of The Parent-Child Book Club: Connecting With Your Kids Through Reading (HorizonLine Publishing, 2009). Melissa is an Assistant and Blogger for the Children’s Book Academy, a Regional Ambassador for The Chapter Book Challenge, a Moderator for The Debut Picture Book Study Group, and a volunteer with the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators/MetroNY. Melissa has worked as a lawyer, legal writing instructor, freelance writer and editor, and early childhood educator. Additionally, she is a member of the Board of Trustees at The Hewitt School and at Temple Shaaray Tefila. Melissa lives in New York City with her husband, three daughters, and one puppy.
http://www.facebook.com/MelissaStoller
http://www.twitter.com/melissastoller
http://www.instagram.com/Melissa_Stoller
http://www.pinterest.com/melissa_Stoller
- Picture Book manuscript critique from author Amber Hendricks.
- Picture Book manuscript critique from author Sherry Howard.
Sherry Howard lives in Middletown, Kentucky, in a household busy with kids and pets. She worked as an educator, and now has the luxury of writing full time. Her debut picture, Rock and Roll Woods, released in October, 2018. And her middle grade NF, Deep Sea Divers, just released. She has quite a few books in the pipeline for publication soon.
Sherry Howard | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Meet Kuda and Rock and Roll Woods here.
- Picture Book manuscript critique from author Julie Abery.
Mother. Writer. Teacher of the very young. I live in Switzerland with my partner and Tilly, the Springer Spaniel.
I ❤️ my job (it’s not every day you get to be an honorary five year old!)
I ❤️ chocolate (I live in Switzerland after all!)
I ❤️ walking the dog (well, I did eat all the chocolate!)
I ❤️ picture books!
If you would like to learn more about me, please visit
http://www.stormliteraryagency.com/our-authors-and-artists/
- Picture book critique from author Tina Cho.
Tina Cho is the author of four picture books– Rice from Heaven: The Secret Mission to Feed North Koreans (Little Bee Books/Bonnier Publishing August 2018), Korean Celebrations (forthcoming Tuttle 2019), Breakfast with Jesus (forthcoming Harvest House 2020), and a new sale yet to be announced. Although she grew up and taught in the United States, she currently lives in South Korea with her husband and two children while teaching at an international school.
- Picture book critique from author Carrie Finison.
Carrie Finison began her literary career at the age of seven with an idea, a box of markers, and her father’s typewriter. She has been writing off and on ever since, though she has (somewhat regretfully) traded in the typewriter for a laptop. Her poems and stories for children have appeared in Babybug, Ladybug, High Five, and Highlights magazines, and her debut picture book,DOZENS OF DOUGHNUTS, illustrated by Brianne Farley, will be published by Putnam in 2020. She lives outside Boston with her husband, son, daughter, and two cats who permit her to write in their cozy attic office. Find her online atwww.carriefinison.com or on Twitter @CarrieFinson.
- Picture book critique from Maria Marshall
Maria is a children’s author, blogger, and poet passionate about making nature fun for children. She was a round 2 judge for the 2018 & 2017 Cybils Awards. And a judge for the #50PreciousWords competition since its inception. Two of her poems are published in The Best Of Today’s Little Ditty 2016 and 2014-2015 anthologies. She is the parent of two amazing adults and lives in the Pacific Northwest with two Pixie Bob cats. When not writing, critiquing, or reading, she bird watches, travels the world, bakes, and hikes. The Picture Book Buzz
Website Facebook Twitter Instagram
- Signed copy of book by Laura Sassi
Laura Sassi has a passion for telling stories in prose and rhyme. Her picture books include GOODNIGHT, MANGER (Zonderkidz, 2015), GOODNIGHT, ARK (Zonderkidz, 2014), DIVA DELORES AND THE OPERA HOUSE MOUSE (Sterling, 2018) and LOVE IS KIND (Zonderkidz, 2018). She lives in New Jersey with her husband, two children, and a black Cockapoo named Sophie. She is represented by Lara Perkins of the Andrea Brown Literary Agency and you can learn more about her and her books at https://laurasassitales.wordpress.com/
- Signed copy of THE MASTERPIECE by Shelley Kinder
Shelley lives in Indiana with her family and loves writing for little people. Not So Scary Jerry (2017) was her first picture book. The Masterpiece (2018) is her second. Its original version got eleventh place in Vivian’s #50PreciousWords Contest in 2016
A big thank you to all of our amazing prize donors! Much appreciation to illustrator Vicky Fang whose awesome logo graces our challenge! And a grateful thank you to my dear friends and critique buddies, Maria Marshall, Julie Abery, and Diane Tulloch who will be helping me read and comment.
Last year there were almost 2000 comments – ALL OF THEM POSITIVE AND ENCOURAGING! I am so proud to be a part of this amazing kidlit community. Our news stations and politicians could definitely learn something from us.
And before I leave you to post your stories and comment on those you have a chance to read, I thought it would only be fair if I posted my sample of a 50-word story. I hang my head in shame because I am using the same story I wrote for last year’s post. I hope you will forgive me, preparations for my book launches and trip did not allow me time to write a new one, but I did want to put up an example for those who haven’t participated before. And maybe it will be new to them!
WHY THE STARS TWINKLE (49 words)
It was Sun’s birthday.
Moon gathered paper, paint,
glitter and glue to make a card.
But Wind blew.
Glitter and glue covered the stars.
“Now I have no gift for Sun,” cried Moon.
“Twinkling stars are the best present of all,” said Sun.
And Moon glowed all night long.
##
Remember, if you have any questions or concerns, please email me at: viviankirkfield@gmail
I ask for your patience and understanding if I don’t get back to you right away…but please don’t stress…if you write a story and have trouble posting it, just email me. As long as your email gets to me time stamped before the contest closes, I will make sure your story is entered. Right at this moment, I am in Auckland, New Zealand, participating in library and school story times, reading FOUR OTTERS TOBOGGAN: AN ANIMAL COUNTING BOOK, PIPPA’S PASSOVER PLATE, and SWEET DREAMS, SARAH! How lucky can aa girl get???
And I am so looking forward to reading all of your precious words!
‘Bear Remembers’ by Kaye Baillie (50 words)
Small Bear lived in a forest,
beside Mama’s rum-tum heart,
birdsong,
and delicious rays of sunlight.
Until …
every day became never-ending night.
Small Bear grew
and forgot life.
Until kind hands carried his cage
over many miles and days
to a place of sweetness
and others
just like him.
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Oh my goodness! Kaye! First of all, it was awesome meeting you at the SCBWI conference in Sydney! What a joy to sign Pippa’s Passover Plate for you! And congratulations…yours is the FIRST story posted for the 2019 #50PreciousWords! I love your story…it reminds me of IVAN: The Shopping Mall Gorilla…which I absolutely adore. Your writing is lyrical and full of emotion and powerful visuals. Well done!!!
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Meeting you was a highlight of the conference, Vivian and I love Pippa! Thank you, for taking the time for this lovely reply. I wrote this story because of the thousands of bears kept in cages.
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Congratulations Kaye on being the first to post in 2019! What a gentle, visual, lyrical story. Lots of love for Small Bear!
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Thank you so much.
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This is beautiful. I loved it!
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Thank you, Debbie.
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Woohoo for the first post!!! Such emotions in this story, well done!
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Well done Kaye. I’m an animal lover and you hit a soft spot.
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Sweet Post!
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This is a very touching story. I was intrigued by the “never-ending night.” It reminded me of the “old bear house” at Taronga Zoo in Sydney. That place was so sad. I am glad current bears don’t live there and your bear discovered sweet freedom.
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Gosh Kaye, how beautiful. *whispers* made me cry…
sniff
In a good way …
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Sweet message. I really enjoyed it!
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What a beautiful story! I love the line about Mama’s rum-tum heart.
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Lots of emotion packed into 50 words. Good job!
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“Mama’s rum-tum heart” is a beautiful description. Your word choices are lovely. Such a sweet story!
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Kaye, You created magic with few words and vivid images that captured my heart. The “delicious rays of sunlight” cast against the “never-ending night” made this turning point for Small Bear poignant. I cheered when “kind hands carried his cage” to a “place of sweetness.” You are a gifted storyteller, an author I look forward to following. Blessings for sharing such a tender story!
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Thank you for your very kind words, Marsha. I’m so glad you like the story. For years I have been really sad about the plight of bears kept in cages and that inspired this story.
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Yay for being the 1st! Love this!
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https://rachelhobbswrites.home.blog/2019/03/06/50-precious-words-writing-contest/
Painting a Rainbow by Rachel Hobbs
It was Cloudy’s first rainbow. She picked colors and started to paint. But orange disappeared! It wasn’t on her poofy table. Not behind her floofy Mama. Oh no, the sun started to shine! She peeked under her fluff. There it was. She splashed a dash and the rainbow was glorious.
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I’m so sorry I put mine in the wrong spot. Forgive me!
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No worries, Rachel…I’ve copied and pasted it into its own spot towards the end of the entries…so you have your own spot and people can comment on it separately. Thank you so much for joining in with your lovely rainbow story – so happy rainbow found her orange. 🙂
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Congrats on being the first Kaye. Loved the story, so moving. Also loved meeting you in Sydney. Have just brought Vivian back to Auckland after visiting Hobbiton. Having a blast with my dear friend.
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Such a warm and wonderful story!
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Guts-Ache! By Jan Braham
Lee complained about just about anything, to everyone that he knew.
People replied…
Stop grizzling!
Oh, what’s wrong now?
Don’t be a guts-ache!
Find something positive to talk about!
Lee considered these comments and decided to use optimistic thoughtful words.
Wonderful.
Astonishing.
Exceptional.
Amazing.
Grateful.
Lee grew many new friendships.
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Hello Jan,
I can tell from the wonderful regional flavor that you are probably in Australia or NZ…perhaps you were at the SCBWI conference? I am thrilled to have you participate here in #50PreciousWords! Thank you so much – your story has an important message…and I love your hero’s journey – I, too, made many new friendships on this trip and will be sad to leave. But I still have a couple of weeks…tomorrow we drive to Rotorua for a couple of days.
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Hi Vivien,
Thank you for your comments. Yes I am in Australia, though have not been to that conference.
A great competition. Thank you.
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Nice theme, Jan. “Guts-ache” made me giggle, and remember “Grizzle guts” as a kid. So happy that Lee found lots of new friends when he changed his attitude and word choices! Well done!
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I also liked “grizzling.” Australian? New Zealand? The same a “grumping”? It is amazing what a difference a change in thoughts/attitude can do for ones life. Love the vocabulary in this fun story.
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Oh my. I think you were listening to me talk to my daughter today! I will need to share this with her.
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Love this!
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Lovely message for grumpy kids. I liked Stop grizzling! My parents never used this terminology. It was more like, oh stop being a pain in the neck sort of thing.
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Love the word choices! Especially “grizzling” and “guts-ache!”
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Such fun language!
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This made me chuckle. We often say grizzle-guts. Very kid related. Loved it Jan.
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Brave Chicken can do anything.
“I am invincible!”
He saves little duckling from the Wrath of Terrible Tractor.
Rescues piglet from the Mayhem of Muddy Puddles.
But the Stables of Stink can foil even the most fearless of fowls.
Brave Chicken holds his beak,
musters his courage,
and RIDES!
Yeehaw!
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Hi Jodie, this is super cute! It is visual, and I love your use of alliteration. Well done on creating a story beginning, middle and a fun and satisfactory ending in so few words!
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Yeehaw! That’s a fun one.
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What a fun story! I loved the setting and characters.
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Hahaha! Way to go, Brave Chicken!
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Nicely done. You fit a hero, a stinky conundrum, and a triumphant “ride into the sunset,” all in 50 words. Go Brave Chicken.
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The alliteration is joyful.
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Clever, fun and very visual:)
Great descriptions! My favorite, the “stables of stink”!
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This was lovely, But the Stables of Stink can foil even the most fearless of fowls.
I’m a country girl and I could picture the mayhem going on.
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Fabulous alliteration, Jodie! And great visuals! Brave Chicken is a wonderful character! Well done!
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I love this. Brave chicken to the rescue!
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Love it, Jodie! “Stables of stink” lol!
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Very active and such fun!
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Very cute story and great visuals Jodie.
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Pingback: #50preciouswords – Jodie Parachini
Owie
By
Renee Shoup
Mom, I have an owie.
Look, it’s bleeding.
I don’t see any blood.
But it huuuuuurts!
I need a band aid.
An Elsa one.
OK, Sweetie, here you go.
Can you kiss it to make it feel better?
Certainly, munchkin.
How does it feel now?
Perfect!
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Oh this reminds me of the Pre-K class, Renee! So glad munchkin feels better now :). Well done!
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Band aids and momma’s kisses fix everything! Even those hard to see owies. 🙂
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Sweet and tender. Every mother can relate.
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Yes yes yes! My daughter is almost three and her favorite thing is to pretend she’s hurt
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Perfect capture of the magic of Mommy’s kisses and “Elsa” (or other character) band aids. Nicely done, Renee.
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This is sweet. My grandson is three and he loves getting attention like every child does.
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Every kid will relate to having an owie and getting a kiss that makes it all better. And I love the request for the Elsa bandaid…my granddaughter would want that exact one also. Love the happy ending!
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This is a sweet glimpse into life with a little.
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SO very cute!
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A sweet moment captured perfectly!
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Aww… Love the feel of this very kid related story. Poor little munchkin.
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BEAR AGAINST THE CURRENT
Sarah A. Hetu-Radny
SRadny1@gmail.com
https://sarahheturadny.com/50preciouswords-bear/
Bear was afraid of the current but wanted Salmon.
He tried like the humans, but his claws weren’t made for poles.
Eagle was feeding her eaglets – she couldn’t help.
Trembling, he dipped one paw in.
He waded into the current… and kept going.
Heart thumping, he stood still.
Ah-ha! Pink!
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Sarah…thanks for the story that makes me remember all the wonderful fishing trips to catch salmon! I love the tension as Bear wades in and waits for the flash of…pink! Nicely done!
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Thank you, Vivian!
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I’m so fascinated with the ideas everyone has come up with for this contest- great job!
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Thank you!
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Fun ending that lets the reader’s imagination fly. Clever story!
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Thank you!!
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Love the visuals on your story. Glad he got his pink Salmon, Sarah.
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😀
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Sarah, great job capturing the angst of a bear (I can see a little one just learning) fishing for salmon. Love the ending.
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Thank you Maria!
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FISHING FOR A CAST
Sarah A. Hetu-Radny
SRadny1@gmail.com
https://sarahheturadny.com/50preciouswords-cast/
“I can’t cast.” Keisha frowned.
“Try,” said Papa.
CLUNK
“I missed,” Keisha said.
“Try bringing your hands up higher,” said Papa.
SWISH
“My hat!” said Papa.
“I hit the water!” Keisha said.
“But you took my hat with your hook!”
“Now we have something else to catch!” Keisha said.
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Love the play on words with Fishing for a Cast/Casting for a Fish. And the twist at the end is very clever…thank you so much, Sarah…so happy you are joining in the fun!
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I wouldn’t miss it for the world! I LOVE this contest! (And entering contests helps me with my goals, my writing, and my 12×12 challenge.) 🙂
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Fun day out with dad.
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😀
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Love how the little one makes the situation positive!
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This is so sweet. I love that Keisha seems amused at what she’s done.
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Thank you Arlene!
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Made me laugh out loud! Cute. 🙂
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Awesome thank you!
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Loved this Sarah as it reminded me of fishing with my step Grandfather many many years ago as a young girl. Great job.
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Thank you so much I’m glad you enjoyed it!
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Cute story with a fun twist of words and plot. The relationship between the two made me smile.
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Pingback: FISHING FOR A CAST - a #50PreciousWords Contest Entry - Sarah Hetu-Radny, WRITER
Pingback: BEAR AGAINST THE CURRENT - a #50PreciousWords Contest Entry, 2019 - Sarah Hetu-Radny, WRITER
LOLLY BEGOLLY by Joy Moore
I’m Lolly Begolly and
I’m mad, mad, mad.
Just am.
Shadowy meadow says,
come.
I sprawl out flat.
Me and cloud eyeball each other.
Happy and mad
tangle and fight.
Until…
something unlocks.
Because…
This secret place says,
feelings are welcome.
I smile,
Laugh, dash, bounce
To home.
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wonderful rhythm, Joy!
It made me smile too 🙂
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Hi Joy, what a happy story! I like the visual and tension of ‘me and cloud’, and the moment of pause where something unlocks! Nice job!
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I love “feelings are welcome.” So important for kids to know that.
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I agree with Sherri! That was my favorite part, well done! 🙂
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Joy, for such a great small story, it packs a big punch. Everyone needs that safe place to just be (mad, sad, alone, lonely, happy, or . . .). I love that Lolly’s feelings “unlock,” what a great image. 🙂
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Fabulous title! And I love that you are examining feelings and your character is finding ways to express them…and lovely comparison of feelings and nature. Well done!
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Thank you very much, everyone!!
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Sometimes you just are. I love that she finds her center again in a calm welcoming place.
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I love this piece. The idea of emotions tangling and fighting with each other is so relatable – to adults and kids alike.
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Aww – I could picture this. Sweet!
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Oh my goodness I love this!
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Your title tickles my imagination! You’ve created fun and action while making a strong, unique voice for your narrator. LOVE THIS! Your “feelings are welcome” is what children need to read and understand. Thanks for sharing such talent!
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Great story and I love the name Lolly Bejolly. Great job.
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Pingback: SQUIRREL-LING RIVALRY - A #50PreciousWords Contest Entry, 2019 - Sarah Hetu-Radny, WRITER
SQUIRREL-LING RIVALRY
Sarah A. Hetu-Radny
SRadny1@gmail.com
https://sarahheturadny.com/50preciouswords-squirrels/
“My nut!” said Squirrella.
“Mine!” said Oaken.
“I found it.”
“I buried it last Fall,” Oaken said.
“I remembered the location,” Squirrella said.
“I dug it up,” Oaken said.
“I’ll eat it,” said a deer, entering the clearing.
“No way! It’s ours!” said Squirrella.
“Ours?” Oaken asked.
“Yeah, we’ll share!”
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I love how you gave us the setting, the characters, their personalities, a problem, and a solution…all in 50 words…WELL DONE!
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Thanks Vivian! I thought of my kids when I wrote this one! 🙂
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So much great squished into 50 words!
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I agree with the former comments. You packed that full!!!!!
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I love the ending and the sharing.
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Thank you!!
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Love the use of dialogue!
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Thank you Danielle!
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Lovely, this made me smile!
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Wonderful!
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Way to get character voices and an arc in so few words!
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Thank you Jen! 😀
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this is so sweet!
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Thank you!
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Love, love this. Tension and problem solved with lovely characters. I visualized squirrels with mouths bulging of nuts. Well done!
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Haha thank you so much Diane!!😀
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Fun story. Reminds me how quickly and totally siblings will bond together against an “outside” force. Great job communicating this in 50 words.
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Thanks!
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Pingback: TRAPPED IN TRASH - A #50PreciousWords Contest Entry, 2019 - Sarah Hetu-Radny, WRITER
TRAPPED IN TRASH
Sarah A. Hetu-Radny
SRadny1@gmail.com
https://sarahheturadny.com/50preciouswords-trash/
Away from the pack, Matt and Scit-Scat feasted on trash can treats.
“Let’s go,” Matt said.
Nudged not a budge, the can didn’t shake.
“Stack the trash,” Scit-Scat said.
It slid.
“Help!” The rats called.
“Pile up,” Scit-Scat told the pack.
Paws heaved them from the heap.
“Let’s share!”
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I can just see this pack of rats going through the garbage…YIKES! Great visuals!
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Hahaha… I picture them as clean, cute and fuzzy; not wet, stinky, sewer rats. 🙂 (They talk, so hopefully they also bathe and wash their hands.) 😉
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Such a really fun read!
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What a cool name Scit-Scat! Eek! rats… lol. Kids would love this.
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Thanks 😁
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DOWN THE SPIDER HOLE
By Debbie Day
48 words
Kat the rat
swings her bat.
It’s a fly!
Wait – oh my.
Where’d it roll?
Down THAT hole?
Creepy, steep.
Dark and deep.
Now she spies
SEVERAL eyes.
Kat’s worst fear
inching near.
Creepy crawl.
There’s the….BALL?
“Here you go!”
“Really? Whoa.
…Want to play?”
“Hmmm. Okay!”
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Here’s a link to my blog. Thanks for the wonderful contest Vivian! https://debbiedayauthor.blogspot.com/2019/03/50-precious-words-contest.html
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This just rocks along and trips off the tongue. So fun to read.
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Thanks so much Sherri!
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Commented on your blog as kfiechtn@gmail.com 😊 thanks for sharing
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Thank you Kaitlyn! That was nice of you to visit the blog! 🙂
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Anytime 😊
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This is super cute!
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Thank you!
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Lots of arms to catch and field with…a winning team, for sure. Intimidating too 🙂
nice job!
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Haha, yes, for sure! 🙂 Thank you Willow!
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Lovely rhythm and rhyme here Debbie! I love that when she gets to the hole it is too ‘dark and deep, creepy and steep’ – great visuals and word choices. I like that after her ‘worst fear’ she actually finds a new friend! Good luck!
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That’s so nice of you to say, thank you so much!
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I loved the beat and the words you used. Lots of action for so few words! Great job!
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Thank you so much!
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I love the rhyme and rhythm! Good luck!
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Thanks so much Jolene!
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Debbie, this would make an interesting PB. You have some great images here. Amazing that you can get an unusual friendship, mistaken first impressions or bias, and sports into such few words. 🙂
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Thanks so much for the kind comments Maria!
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Great job at keeping a rhyme and creating a story in only 50 words! Well done, Debbie…I think Spider needs to play in the outfield, right?
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Thanks so much Vivian! For sure! 🙂
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This is cute. Finding out that there was actually nothing to fear will be empowering for readers. Well done. 😊
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Thank you so much Vernon!
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I love how you use soft and hard words to create slow and fast speach and tension in the drama.
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Thanks so much Sarah!
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Great job building the tension through your rhythm and word choices!
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Thank you Danielle!
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Love this Debbie! Well done!
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Thank you Rebecca!
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Nice job! This story moves right along at a great pace.
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Thanks so much Mary!
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Such a cute story! I love the tension and the fun at the end!
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Thanks so much!
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Really enjoyed this, so visual!
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Thanks so much!
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This is so much fun. And those Several eyes! Oh dear.
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Haha, thank you Kaye. I really loved your story!
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Reading your work creates the image of a ball bouncing off my tongue as the words move through the story. What fun!
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Thanks so much! 🙂
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Cute and fun! Well done. 🙂
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Thank you Michelle!
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This sent shivers down my arms and spine. Great rhyme. Loved it.
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Haha, Thank you so much Diane!
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WHAT DOES YELLOW TASTE LIKE?
Sarah A. Hetu-Radny
SRadny1@gmail.com
https://sarahheturadny.com/what-does-yellow-taste-like?/
Said the ant to the bee, “Is yellow tasty?
“Nectar, pollen, honey – all those seem pasty.”
“Dip your foot, take a sip,” my wingless friend.
Ant complied – he tried – would his mind bend?
“Say Bee,” Ant replied, “Yellow is sweet!”
“Dear fellow, yellow is my favorite treat!”
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Love the interaction between ant and bee…thanks for another #50PreciousWords, Sarah!
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Thanks, Vivian! I was inspired by Joyce Sidman’s RED SINGS FROM TREETOPS, currently my favorite PB.
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Great mentor text, right? The theme is precious. Done in such a smart way.
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This is a super sweet story. Thank you! 🙂
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Loved this. Yellow is one of my favourite colours and I love honey. Great job Sarah.
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Thank you, Diane! 😀
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Interesting story. Love the thought provoking title and your concise answer.
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Pingback: WHAT DOES YELLOW TASTE LIKE? - Sarah Hetu-Radny, WRITER
Aaargh! Cute story, Catherine.
Good luck!
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Maureen Morrison
Snowflake Cake
Mom said I could go,
To sit outside and wait for snow.
I sat and waited
patiently,
All I saw was naked trees.
Then I felt a change.
It was like the air had rearranged.
Clouds made dessert, no need to bake,
I had a piece of snowflake cake!
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Hi Maureen, snowflake cake – beautiful thought! Lovely idea! I really love the line ‘like the air had rearranged’. Great job!
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The idea of a snowflake cake is delightful!
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Oh this is so sweet. I love the patience and the no need to bake is perfect!
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A snowflake cake is such a cute idea :o)
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You captured that moment just before the snow falls when everything changes and seems to be holding its breath. I do love the “snowflake cake.” Very nicely done.
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Wonderful title…and you delivered…a delicious story in only #50PreciousWords! Love the visuals and the emotion I felt from the child who waited for the snow. I can see this as a picture book for sure, Maureen!
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Br-r-r-r-r-r, I can feel the cold
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Cute one!
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Love the idea of the clouds making a dessert. Great imagery!
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I could eat snowflake cake every day, no calories. 😉 Good luck!
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I love this. What a beautiful visual of snowflake cake and wonderful rhyme.
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CREEPY, CRAWLY KUDZU
by Paulette Sharkey (pbochnigsharkey@gmail.com, twitter @pbsharkey)
Coiling, climbing, tendriled vine
Didn’t use the door
Found an open window
Ran across the floor.
Covered an abandoned toy
In vegetative wrapping
Continued growing weedily,
Past Puppy, who was napping.
To the stove where Dad stood
Unsuspecting, stirring stew
Kudzu traveled up Dad’s back and
Tapped his shoulder–
Boo!
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Kudzu creeps everywhere for sure. I hope dad cooked up a bit of Kudzu stew or at least made baskets out of it.
I liked this one a lot. Best of luck!
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I could just see this vine as it traveled inside. We all know about Kudzu!
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I enjoyed this very clever little story! Poor Dad!
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Hi Paulette, love the rhyme and rhythm. What a fun idea writing from the point of view of a plant! So creative! Favourite line ‘vegetative wrapping’! Good luck!
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Thanks, Julie — I had fun with this one!
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Wow, very creative. I’m listening to the audiobook of Birdbox now and can totally see this as another change the world kind of creature! Thanks for sharing
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I’ve always heard that if you stand still, kudzu will cover you.Must admit I’m glad it covered the toy and not the puppy. This is the first story I’ve heard about kudzu, nice job.
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Thanks, Maria. My inspiration came from a visit to South Carolina, where I saw an abandoned car completely covered in kudzu. The nearby house was nearly covered as well. I’d never seen anything like it. What an amazing plant!
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Thank you for sharing your #50PreciousWords with us again, Paulette! I love your lyrical language…and the humor is fabulous!
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Thank you, Vivian, for giving us this contest. So fun!
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Love how you personified the Kudzu! Very creative!
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This made me laugh. I could see the entire episode!
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What great rhythm! Well done!
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So funny! Though having seen kudzu take over whole parks, this could also work as a horror story!
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This was interesting. I’ve never heard of Kudzu but it certainly reminded me of the film The Day of the Triffids. Great visuals.
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What a fun story! Great job!
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Wildflowers Thrive
By Amber Hendricks
24 words
Down, down deep,
little seedlings sleep.
Drop, drop, drip.
Seedlings take a sip.
Stretch, stretch, curl.
Tiny sprouts unfurl.
Reach, reach, strive!
Wildflowers thrive.
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This is very creative. The first thing I pictured was children acting this out in movements.
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Thank you, Ashley! I would love to see kiddos acting this out!
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Yes. And perfect for Spring coming up 🙂
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I agree with Ashley below, this would make a wonderful movement poem to use with little ones. Great rhythm and rhyme and nice word choices. Lovely job, Amber! Good luck!
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Ashley above! 😉
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Thank you, Julie!
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sweet little sprouts! lovely language and perfect for young ages to introduce poetry to. Love this 🙂
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This is so child-friendly and lovely.
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Aw! Thank you for your kind words. 🙂
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I am impressed that you have written such a wonderful story in just 24 words Amber. It’s brilliant!
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Catherine, you’ve just made my day!
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Love this! Like others said, I can picture this as a great intro to poetry and movement for little ones. What a powerful use of such few words!
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Aw, thank you!!
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I could easily see this as a board book. And agree with the others that kids would have a fun time acting out this story. Impressive job with 24 words!
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Thank you for your kind words, Maria. 🙂 They mean a lot!
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Beautifully written with only 24 words. Well done!
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Thank you!
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This could definitely be a pb…well done, Amber…I love the visuals of the life cycle of a plant…and in only 24 words…you have room to expand if you wanted to.
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Thank you, Vivian! I actually wrote it as a companion piece to my entry from last year, Butterflies Soar (about the life cycle of a butterfly).
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Wow. That felt as though I’d read more than 24 words. You told a full, sweet story so perfectly. Well done.
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Thank you, Vernon! Your kind words mean a lot!
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Oooh, I LOVE this one. Great job!
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Thank you!
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The rhyme, the rhythm, the journey…everything is well executed! I am so impressed by the imagery you created with only 24 words. I agree with Ashley – this would be a perfect movement poem to act out with children! Beautiful work!
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Thank you, Danielle! Your kind words mean a lot!
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This needs a spot in High Five! Well done.
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So kind, thank you!
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This is beautiful, Amber. So lyrical, and with only 24 words!
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Thank you!
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This has such beautiful language, Amber. It really would make an adorable board book. I can just see the little seedlings sleeping, sipping, stretching, growing! I can’t believe you fit that all in 24 words. Fantastic story!
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Thank you for reading, CJ! You are too kind!
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This is very cute and like a lot of those who commented here I think this will make a great movement poem for littlies. When I first took Vivian to the local library they were having a wriggle session and this would be perfect for that.
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TERRIFIC PIG PAGEANT by Vicki Hammond
“French manicure. Purple, please,” snorted Pignelope.
“Oui,” clucked Becky.
Peck, peck, peck,
Pignelope…stand still!
Aaaaaaaaaaachhhhhuuu…aaaaaaaaachhhhhhuuuuuu…
feathers flew
straw dust too
“C’est la vie, Pignelope.
What will you do?”
Stand tall. Head high.
Attitude. Strut.
“The winner…Pignelope!
wearing purple feathers with a touch of straw-dust
—how chic and European.”
posted on blog, twitter, and FB.
Thanks Vivian! Always fun 🙂
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This is fun, Vicki – sometimes this seems to be exactly how fashion comes about!! Good luck.
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I can so visualize this fun read.
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Thanks Sherri 🙂
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Thanks Little Red – btw: love your user name!
Yes, yes, turning messes into haute couture.:)
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Hahahaha! Yes, work it pignelope!
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She can do it…thanks for reading, Kaitlyn 🙂
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Fun story. Love Pignelope’s name and character. This does elicit some delightful images..
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Thank you, Maria 🙂
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Vicki, this was so funny, a purple chicken and European at that. Love the name Pignelope.
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Thanks Eleanor! Glad it made you smile. I enjoyed your Da Vinci inspired story too.
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Hilarious, Vicki…and I LOVE Pignelope’s attitude of can do! Nicely done!!!
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Thank you, Vivian! I appreciate the opportunity. Such fun!
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This has some amazing illustration potential, and it would be a really fun (and funny!) read aloud!
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Thanks Danielle! Those are the best words to hear 🙂
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So fun, Vicki (Sorry I called you Willow in my other comment–I was making an assumption from your username, lol)!! I love Pignelope’s name and character!
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The downside to using a pen name 🙂
But thanks for reading, Jolene.
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This was a fun read. Loved the visuals.
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Thank you, Diane! I appreciate the support 🙂
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Hello Cactus (48 words)
By Kathy Raggio
Hello cactus.
Hello prickly paddles
and
yellow flowers.
Hello buzzing bees
and
whizzing wasps.
Hello garter snake
and
little lizard.
Watch out little lizard!
The snake!
RUN little lizard.
RUN!
Sneaky snake.
Good bye cactus,
paddles,
flowers,
bees,
wasps,
snake,
and
safe little lizard.
See you after school.
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Hi Kathy, I love how this little story builds to a tipping point and then returns you all the way back. Nice job!
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Agreed! So much excitement in so few words. I’m glad the lizard escaped, whew. Thanks for sharing and painting such a beautiful picture story with your words
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Thank you!
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Yes, exactly what I was thinking! It has a really nice story structure. Well done!
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Thank you!
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Fun crescendo story. I can envision a child watching this unfold on the way to school and I’m glad the lizard got away. Good job.
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Thank you Maria!
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Love the desert theme…and I’m happy the lizard escaped safely. Thanks for joining in the fun, Kathy!
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Thank you all for your kind words. It was written with a child in mind saying hello to the world around them. Such a fun challenge. Thank you Vivian!!
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So glad the lizard is safe. This reads like a lovely parabola.
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Thank you!
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I really love the structure! Great job.
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Thank you!
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Whew! That was close for the Lizard. Lovely job.
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Pingback: Terrific Pig Pageant – Living In the Corner of a Vortex
DON’T FORGET TO DUCK
Something tells me that elephant is going to sneeze.
He may have a cold, so I’ll cover his face with a mask.
And keep him nice and warm.
Sure enough.
AAAACHOO
Something tells me I was wrong.
It was shells stuck in his trunk.
And I forgot to duck.
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Ha! Super funny! Nice job, Bonnie!
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Thank you and yours is wonderful!
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This made me chuckle. Fun “twist” at the end – not just a sneeze but a shell-shooting one. Great title.
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OUCH!
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I guess we all need to watch out when an elephant sneezes. 😉 This is so funny, Bonnie…love the humor!
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Heartfelt thanks for all your kind comments.
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Absolutely adorable, Bonnie! Love your last two lines!
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Loved the humour in this story. I think anything an elephant does you would need to duck… lol. Great job.
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This is fun, Catherine! I love the tension created by the short sentences and how you build a visual of the ‘sandwich cake’ height by using one word per line. I totally want a birthday cake with jelly baby guards! Nice job!
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Aw! This was such a fun read! Great energy and flow. 🙂 I can easily imagine my own 6 year old creating this decadent delight!
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Our New Teacher
Datilus knows everything. But he doesn’t take heaving, wheezy breaths and smile at us through crinkly, weepy eyes when we listen to Chopin.
Yesterday as Stella’s face globbed with snot and tears, he said, “Stella, you are leaking.”
Are you ever coming back, Mrs. Harrison?
Time for our science experiment!
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Hi Lenora, I felt so sorry for Stella…such great word choices to describe her discomfort! It isn’t easy being a replacement teacher!
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This is interesting and thoughtful. I’m not sure I like this substitute teacher; he seems mean. Nice job with so few words.
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Lenora…I love your premise…showing that the new teacher may know everything, but he has no heart. Thank you for sharing your precious words with us!
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Lenora, this was brilliant! I love how you think and see the world!
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I guess it’s hard getting used to replacement teachers. Great descriptive word choices.
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Hog and Dog jog. See a log in bog. Call friend Frog who blogs. They talk to Log. But Log never says a word. He sticks in bog. Hog and Dog invent ice cream flavors. Frog teaches blogging in Prague but Log never leaves. He’s a stick in the bog.
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Funny! Poor Log never leaving…or maybe he is just happy in the bog! Hog and Dog ice cream flavours? Curious!
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Log just is an old stick in the bog/mud.
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Fun visual with Hog and Dog jogging. Not sure about Hog and Dog ice cream unless they’re the once who invented Häagen-Dazs…then yummy! Wonderful word play with stick in the bog. best of luck to you, Jenny.
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This has a real Seussical feel to it! I love the endind!
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I could see this as a fun early reader. I like willowwrites suggestion that this might have begun as a play on Häagen-Dazs. Or maybe even what a child might misunderstand when they hear this name.
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Thank you. I was hungry when I wrote this. Lol
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I’m ready to try those new ice cream flavors, Jenny! This is quite clever…thank you for joining our #50PreciousWords!
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Thank you I did think of Häagen-Dazs. The title is Hog and Dog. Thanks for this incredible edible competition. Lol
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Cute play with rhyming words that you wouldn’t necessarily think to put together. Reminds me of the book Doug Dug. (I think that’s the title).
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This is a fun tongue twister. Love to know what ice cream flavours Hog and Dog invented. 🙂
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MUD PIE DINNER
By; Sherri Jones Rivers
Find a shovel, dig some dirt,
Careful of the hose’s squirt.
Pound and mix, mix and pound,
ball them up and make them round.
Flatten them and fill the pan;
finish up your master plan.
Bake them slow; you’ve got a winner.
Tummy yummy, Mud Pie Dinner.
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Lovely rhythm and rhyme here and so very child centred! I absolutely made mud pies! Nice job!
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Hahahaha! That’s perfect, love the rhythm and rhyme and what a fun subject!
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Sherri, you captured the fun of summer play in rhyme, rhythm, and visuals. Well done. Best of luck.
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Delicious!
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Truly enjoyed it! 🙂
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I read this and it instantly transported me back to my own Mud Pie making days. Fun energy and great rhymes!
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Oh, this brings back childhood and early parenting memories. You have a great rhyme and rhythm here. I could see this in a young child’s magazine. 🙂
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Yuck! and Yay! Great job!
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Very cute, Sherri…kids will love a story about making mudpies! Love your verbs…flatten, fill, fiinish!
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Thank you to all who commented. Your kind words are so reassuring. I love reading all the entries and only wish some of you weren’t quite as talented as you are!!!!! LOL!
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This is so much fun, with perfect rhymes. Well done Sherri!
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This is so, so good. Love it! Reminds me of baking mud pies when I was a little girl. And also of this little picture book that I had when I was young called MARY ANN’S MUD DAY.
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“Tummy yummy” is so cute! Love your verb choices too. This is really fun! Great work!
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Very enjoyable rhythm and rhyme.
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This is so fun! Great job with the rhythm and rhyme.
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Aww… this is so cute and relatable to so many kids.
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Oh, boy, oh, boy! You’ve shaken loose my children days at our Michigan cottage where my best friend Nancy and I “sold” our MUD CHUNK COOKIES. What a romp and rhythm you create for your story.
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Loved this simple rhyming poem that took me back to my childhood down on the farm with family friends pretending to be mother and making mud pies. Love it.
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SEASONS
by Candace Spizzirri
Summer’s blush has all but faded
Carefree days now contemplated
Autumn’s crisp with chilly air
Turning leaves as witches scare
Winter’s snowflakes blanket white
Sledding, holidays excite
Spring’s arrived with lovely bloom
Promises of life’s perfume
Summer’s back and all is right
God’s handwriting…
Our delight!
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This is beautifully lyrical, and has a lovely balance Candace! Good luck!
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Thank you.
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So well-written, amazing cadence and beautiful descriptions
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Thanks so much, Kaitlyn. I loved yours.
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Ditto!😍
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Amen…
The year and its events, lyrical and lovely handwritten by God. Typed by you 🙂
best of luck, Candace.
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Thank you, Willow.
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Wonderful word choices and I can imagine the pictures! Great job!
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Aah that’s so sweet.
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So visual and lovely. Well done, Candace!
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This sings to my heart. Lovely.
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What a sweet story with an easy rhythm and delightful rhyme. I really enjoyed your choice of more complicated, unusual rhymes. Great job evoking each season so concisely and lyrically.
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Thank you for the kind words, Maria.
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Hello Candace…love the lyricism and the visuals…I’m ready for summer to never end.
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Thank you, Vivian. I think lots of people are ready for a bit of warm weather. 😉 Safe, enjoyable travels.
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Beautiful imagery with words!
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A new way to look at the seasons, which are well depicted.
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Thanks Sherri.:)
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Thank you, Lisa.
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This is beautiful Candace! Good luck!! moni
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Thanks Moni.
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This is a lovely trip through the seasons.
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😃 thanks
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I love your lyrical language in this–it’s beautiful and a pleasure to read!
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This is a lovely depiction of the seasons. You certainly have God given talent!
All the best,
Lily
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Like the others I thought this was beautiful. Lovely rhyme. God’s handwriting… indeed.
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WHAT GOES UP MUST COME DOWN by Eleanor A. Peterson
After visiting DaVinci’s flying machines at the museum, Chiara decides to build her own.
Chiara seeks help from her friend at the circus.
They blow up helium balloons and off she goes.
Geese get in her way. Pop! Pop!
Luckily she lands on the circus safety net.
LikeLiked by 9 people
A great vignette for extending into a pb! Good luck Eleanor!
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Thank you!
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Nice Eleanor! I see another potential PB don’t the road. Best of luck in the contest!
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I’m working hard on this project, thanks willow.
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I agree that this would make an interesting opening for a PB. I’d be interested to see if it cures Chiara or encourages her to try harder.
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Chiara loves science and adventures. She will be faced with a few obstacles and will learn to try harder.
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Oh yes, you’ve got a good girl power possibility here.
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Am I late or what’ Sorry for the delay in answering. I was In Sardinia for a week checking out restaurants for a wedding reception.
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Chiara will swish by the Italian Alps, something like Vivian did skydiving I guess.
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Thank goodness the safety net was there. 😉 Fun twist with the geese popping the balloons…I could see this happening. So glad you shared your precious words with us, Eleanor…and I’m looking forward to seeing you in Bologna…and I’ll have a copy of Show Me How for you!
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Looking forward to meeting you.
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Eleanor this is a lovely story with a fun twist with the Geese popping the balloons. Great job.
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The Sunrise Catcher
by Amelia Jane
Morning Colors.
Gold.
Pink.
Orange.
Peek through my window.
It’s time to catch the sun.
Outside, I dance across the grass.
My shadow dances behind me.
I reach up.
Sunbeams bounce on my fingers.
Laughing, I lift my face,
And drink the rays of light.
Gold.
Pink.
Orange.
Morning happiness.
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Beautiful!
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So lovely!
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Uplifting! Beautiful verb choices…drink the rays of light, bounce on my fingers! Good luck!
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This is gorgeous Amelia Jane. Really beautiful language :o)
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This is so poetic and lovely. I like how you circle back to the colors. Great job!
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This is really lovely. Early morning sunrises are precious and I like your image of drinking “the rays of light.” So does my cat! 🙂
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Reminds of when I was a child. I was an early bird and the first one out of the house. I remember those colors. Good luck with this.
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Your story gave me lots of morning happiness, Amelia…your words are filled with lovely images…so glad you shared. 🙂
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Such nice language and emotion.
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Gorgeous imagery!
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Beautiful Amelia. I can imagine a young girl racing outside and doing a cartwheel. enjoying the morning sun. Nice job.
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Pingback: The #50PreciousWords Writing Contest is OPEN: March 2-6 | Love, Laughter, and Life
Pingback: I Can my #50PreciousWords Story – Math is Everywhere
Thanks for putting this on, so much fun! And your story was so beautiful, Vivian.
Here’s my blog post, I’d love to see comments there if you get a chance😊 https://mathiseverywhere439319476.wordpress.com/2019/03/02/i-can-my-50preciouswords-story/
And here’s my entry 49-word entry:
Arabesque! Jeté! Pirouette!
I want to dance,
but
I’m not good enough…
Sally’s feet are flexible.
Timmy’s spins are superb.
Then there’s me.
Totter, slip, fall.
I try again.
Totter, slip, land.
And again…
Totter, balance, land.
Then again…
Développé, balance, land!
I can be a dancer.
With practice.
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Aah, I adore this one! Great message for kids and strong execution.😃
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Thank you so much, you saying I have strong execution is worth so much to me. And I’m so glad message came through loud and clear. All I want for kids is to do their best and have the best encouragement 😊
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Nice job Kaitlyn! I love the message of perseverance!
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Thank you so much 😊 it’s definitely one of my favorite traits😁
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Yes you can! Great message. Love this.
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Lovely Kaitlyn! Such a positive message and I love your word choices. You have packed such a beautiful story in so few words. Good luck!
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Aww that means the world to me, thank you!
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I see you through these words. You can do it, little ballerina.
Nicely penned Kaitlyn.
I tried to comment on your blog but didn’t see a place to click for commenting.
best of luck!
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You’re so thoughtful! Thank you, it definitely echos my journey as a writer, you do see me😊 WordPress can be off with comments. If you’re in WordPress even the comment area hides, ah technology, so great yet can be so fickle
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so true. 🙂
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Like the alliteration and the overall theme—-good for us writers, we well!
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Love this ❤ Persistence pays off!
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Thank you!😊 Can’t wait to read yours!😍
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Love your message and your word choices. Lovely story!
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Thank you so much 😁😁😁
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This is beautiful and it reminds me of Lady Gaga’s Oscar speech. (One I’ve printed out and will try to remember with each ms rejection.❤️)
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No way?! That’s a huge compliment; I’ll have to look it up! Good luck in the query trenches, I’m there with you, friend.
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Growth mindset is the key to achievement. Great message. Plus I love dance stories 🙂
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😁me too! Did you ever watch Dance Academy on Netflix?? If not, check it out! Also thanks, growth mindset is the best! Can’t wait to read yours
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I have not. Will have to check it out. Mine is super short but I took a stab at it.
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Enjoy and I bet it’s fun, short and sweet they say😉
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What a great story of perseverance and practice. I could see this develop into a picture book. You’ve done a great job so concisely showing the dancer’s progress physically, emotionally, and mentally in so few words. Kudos.
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You are too kind!! I will definitely try to develop it. I really didn’t think of trying, but now, maybe I will 😊thanks for the encouragement
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I like the French terminology and that Sally is not a quitter.
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Thank you 😊
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I love how your mc took a hero’s journey and persevered! Well done, Kaitlyn!
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Thank you 😁😁😁
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You have painted a lovely picture and a perfect lesson in preserving. All that in 50 words! Well done.
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Thank you so much 😍
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What a great message for kids to keep trying and not give up. Great job Kaitlyn!
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Thank you so much 🤩
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Cute one!
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Thanks!!🤩
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Go girl go! Love this story about perseverance! (If this were me, it would read, slip splat, call 911!)
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Hahahaha! You can bring humor to anytime, my friend, I LOVE it! I’m so glad you enjoyed it too😍
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I love dance stories! As a dancer, it’s so easy to compare yourself to others in class and get discouraged (or in any other field for that matter!). I really loved your positive message and use of ballet terms. Excellent work, Kaitlyn! Good luck!
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I real dancer likes my story? Yes! In ent danced since I was a very young kid, chose sports over ballet, it was a tough decision, but my daughter and I do a mommy and me class now that she’s 2😊 so glad the positivity came through! Darn comparisons are so hard, esp in dance. Do you dance still?
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I love it! I’m not dancing as much as I’d like right now with two littles and another on the way. I’m hoping to get back into it more after this pregnancy! A mommy and me class would be the perfect place to start. Thanks for the idea!
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I’m so glad you understood my typos lol. I hear that, I’m a soccer player mostly, finally got back into playing when my daughter turned one and loving it! Dance is fun too. I’d love to get back into adult classes too. Hope you do too😊
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I love your message of perseverance and growth–that your hero is believing in herself and not comparing herself to others by the end! Great story!
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Thank you so much, that’s exactly what I was hoping people would get! 😍
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A great message of perseverance. Love it.
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Title: Hope
Author: Karen O’Leary
Word count: 50
“Look Vivi!” Dad called. Her hand scooped the remaining brown soil over. One tear streamed down her little cheek. Sun beamed down on the grey rock. Here lies, Ven, loyal canine. Blowing kisses over her shoulder, wiping the tear away with Ven’s red bandana. Every ending presents a hopeful beginning.
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This is heart-wrenching, but powerful. The loss of a pet is so hard. It would interesting to see this expanded so we really get to see the hopeful beginning.
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Lots of emotion here, Karen. Lovely language…and now I want to know what the hopeful beginning will be. 😉
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This is beautiful. I am a dog lover at heart and can feel the pain and sadness of this moment.
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Nice use of details and imagery to evoke emotion, Karen!
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So beautiful, painful, and hopeful, Karen! Thank you for sharing!
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Oh my this was heartwrenching and I so want to know what hopeful beginning lay ahead for her. Beautiful Karen.
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Pingback: #50 Precious Words Story – Eleanor Ann Peterson
Pingback: Book Babies #50 PreciousWords challenge 2019 | Little Red Story Shed
Hahahaha! That’s perfect, love the rhythm and rhyme and what a fun subject!
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(Oops, so sorry posting again; typo.)
Don’t Forget To Duck
Something tells me that elephant is going to sneeze.
He may have a cold,
so I’ll cover his face with a mask.
And keep him nice and warm.
Sure enough.
AAAACHOO
Something tells me I was wrong.
Peanut shells were stuck in his trunk.
And I forgot to duck.
LikeLiked by 9 people
Hahaha love that it’s got such a fun punchline
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Haha!
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No worries, Bonnie! So happy your joined in the fun. And I am always happy to have an additional warning about sneezing elephants. 😉
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I can picture this masterful birthday cake castle! Good job!
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To the Tip-top!
By Sarah Meade
Word Count: 50
To the tip-top!
Rabbit first.
Hip-hop.
Two horses follow.
Clip-clop.
Three penguins next.
Flip-flop.
Four billy goats go.
Trip-trop.
Five zebras move along.
Zip-zop.
Then…
Rainstorm!
Plip-plop.
Oh no!
Slip-slop!
One rabbit, two horses, three penguins, four billy goats, and five zebras get up.
They try again…
To the tip-top!
LikeLiked by 23 people
Sarah, I like the use of word sounds to go along with the count down. Sweet and well done! best of luck to you.
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Thank you so much! Good luck to you as well!
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Love the rhythm, sounds, and the layers in this one!
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Thank you so much, Nicole! Love those layers! 🙂
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Love the humor! I can picture the slide down after the rain! Good job!
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Thank you so much!
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This is such a fun story Sarah. I love the onomatopoeia :o)
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Thank you, Catherine!
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Love how this sorry builds, and what great words!! I’m so gald they tried again! So much fun😊 good luck!
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Thank you, Kaitlyn! I appreciate it. Good luck to you on your super story, too!
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You’re so welcome and ditto!😊
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This is wonderful and such a clever little story. I can see this becoming a counting concept board book. Good luck!
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Thank you very much!
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Oh my! You have a fantastic counting story with every word working and not longing for any more. Well done!
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Thank you so much! I appreciate your kind words.
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What fun! Kids would have fun mimicking the rhyming actions and it has a great circular structure. I enjoyed the humor and counting additional layers as well. I could see this tweaked into a picture book!
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Thank you, Maria! I appreciate your specific feedback and encouraging words.
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This could be a fun counting PB. Lovely!
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Thank you very much!
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I love this. It would be a good board book. Or if you expand it, a picture book. It would be so fun to read aloud. GOod work!
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Thank you, Linda! I love a good read aloud. I appreciate your kind words.
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Well done! Perfect counting book for little ones…lots of fun sound words…and you got them all to rhyme! Love this, Sarah!
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Thank you very much, Vivian! I appreciate your encouraging words. Thanks for offering this fun contest!
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Love the onomatopoeia and the counting! Nice job, Sarah!
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Thank you so much!
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Sarah! I think you have a best-selling board book here! Love it!
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Thank you, Glenda! I love the way that sounds- all that awesome alliteration!
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This is wonderful – loved all the ips and ops. 🙂
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Thanks, Mandy! I appreciate it.
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I, Ciara O’Neal, am one of Sarah Meade’s biggest fans! Okay, there I said it. Some day when she is rich and famous, I get to say that I was one of her first fans! Good job, Sarah!
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Thank you, Ciara! And right back at you! You are so sweet, creative, and funny.
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This is fantastic! I love the way it builds with counting and onomatopoeia. I would love reading this out loud to my kids. Great work!
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Thank you so much, Danielle! I love a good read aloud.
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Wonderful use of sounds especially in this short format!
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Thank you so much, Mary!
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So fun!
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Thanks for reading!
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Sarah, as always—well done! I love this story!
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Thanks for your encouraging words, Dedra! I appreciate you.
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Great sounding and counting book for little ones. Great job.
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So sweet, literally!
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Vivian – a 50 word folktale about friendship and how the stars became glittery? What a beautiful, sweet, and impressive story!
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Awww…thanks so much, Nicole…I felt badly because it’s the one I posted last year…but I figured lots of people are new to the contest this year and so it would be new to them…and I just didn’t have the time with all of this travel and the conference preparation.
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JUNGLE AFTERNOON TEA
by Jay Reece
50 words
Soon after the rain
in the jungle had stopped.
From cozy nest
a spider family popped.
The jungle floor has layers
of bugs, bark, and stems.
A café for jungle creatures
with delicious tasty gems.
Spiders follow creatures
towards a dining spree.
All groomed and excited
for jungle afternoon tea.
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Jay, what a fun way to explain the floor of the jungle. Nice visual language and creativity. best of luck to you.
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Yum! I can’t explain why but I just love the intensity of the spider family popped, great job!
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Wow! I can really picture this one. Love it 🙂
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What a fun tea party and learning opportunity for kids.But I am afraid it is not one I want to attend.
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This is cute, Jay, and could be expanded to make a great pb text. Good luck!
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Fun concept and excellent imagery!
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A jungle afternoon tea for spiders and other creatures…how creative, Jay! I love how you put us in the setting right away!
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Love the visuals of your story Jay. Make a great educational story for kids.
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Cute story! I like the creative cake.
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Susan Butler
Eyes
Green eyes
Blue eyes
Brown eyes
Bright eyes
Wide eyes
Excited eyes
Winking, Twinkling
Shining eyes
Smiling, Laughing
Loving eyes
Wiping, Drying
Teary eyes
Staring at the moon
Gazing at the stars
Tired eyes
Sleepy eyes
Blinking eyes
Rubbing eyes
Eyes open
Eyes closed
Eyes shut tight
Good night.
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Yes, so beautiful and so relatable😊
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Reading eyes. Smiling eyes. Great job.
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Such a gentle sweet lullaby. Deftly captures the perennial struggle to get those tiny eyes to close for the night. Beautiful.
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I agree. Beautiful! 🙂
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I love this – it’s a beautiful bedtime read 🙂
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Perfect, quiet bedtime story.
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Nice job, Susan. I love the transition from bright eyes to tired eyes and sleep! Good luck in the contest.
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This is a sweet bedtime story. Love the emphasis on the eyes throughout – that’s something I haven’t seen before in a bedtime book. Nice work!
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Lovely ‘look’ at eyes, Susan. Thank you for opening our eyes to some of the characteristics of those important orbs!
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This is beautiful, make for a tender story book for kids.
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What a nice vignette!
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Outer Space Frog 50 words
by Lily Erlic
Night-sky filled with star patterns.
“Where is my constellation?” asked Frog.
Taurus, Orion, Little Dipper, Big Dipper but no Frog.
Frog flew to the sky to ask Star.
“What have you done to earn one?”
Frog gave her an ice-cream cone.
“For me? Thanks!”
Star gave Frog a constellation.
“Amazing!”
LikeLiked by 8 people
Fun story. Suppose it’s only fair to have a frog constellation. Interesting that the price is an ice-cream cone. 🙂
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Thank you Maria. Frog went a very long distance to reach star so he made a lot of effort fo visit. Also, the ice-cream is a rare treat for a star–it’s hot up there so ice-cream hits the spot! lol
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I love the power of ice cream! A frog constellation, very creative.
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Thank you! I hope star eats the ice-cream before it melts. 🙂
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What a fun story, Lily! And how about an ice cream cone constellation? I’d definitely be star gazing it every night. 😉
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Vivian, that would make my mouth water. Sounds delightful! 🙂
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Interesting story and I love ice cream so I want to know what to do to get one. lol. Nice job.
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Hi Diane, lol, well all you have to do is a small, kind gesture for someone and maybe they will reward you with your favourite flavour ice-cream cone! 🙂 Thank you for the comment!
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What’s for Brinner?
By: Jessica Potts
49 Words
We’re having brinner tonight.
Huh?
I ask my brother.
“Think pancakes.”
Still confused.
I check the fridge.
Nothing labeled brinner.
Maybe a dessert?
I ask mom.
“Put your thinking cap on!”
Well, pancakes are for breakfast.
But we are having them for dinner…
Oh! Breakfast for dinner is BRINNER!
LikeLiked by 13 people
Hahahaha! Very creative !
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Fun story! My family’s had brunch & lunner, so I suppose it was only a matter of time before breakfast and dinner joined forces. There is something special about pancakes for dinner!
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This was funny and cute.
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Fun!! I can imagine kids saying this. Nice job, Jessica.
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I love “Brinner” 😀 Well done!
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I am a huge fan of brinner, Jessica…so this story was very relatable for me. Well done!
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This was fun. And pancakes are great anytime of the day. Especially with ice cream. Loved this.
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Vivian I’m so excited for #50preciouswords! Here is the link to my site: https://thenightingaletales.com/2019/03/02/50preciouswords-contest-happy-birthday-dr-seuss/
and here is my story:
Telephone
Two soup cans
butchers twine,
grab a can,
pull the line.
You run there,
I’ll go here,
put your can
around your ear.
Mouth to can
I yell, “Hello!”
and watch sound travel
to and fro.
My friend replies,
“No need to shout,
I hear you clearly,
Over and out!”
LikeLiked by 21 people
Love this one! Commented on your blog, but couldn’t resist here too😊
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Lol thanks again!
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Jean…this is super cute…and it captures a game most of us have played. Your rhythm and rhyme are really strong! Nice job!
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Thank you so much Vivian! This is always a fun contest to write in!
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Great rhymes and really speaks to my nostalgic heart!
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Thanks it was nostalgic for me too! So simple, yet so much fun.
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The rhyme is great! Kids would want to give it a try after reading this one.
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Wouldn’t that be great! Thanks so much for your kind words.
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Nice rhyme and a great capture of this moment in childhood. I could see this, with a fun illustration, in a kids magazine.
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Wow, thanks Maria! I remember making this as a kid, it was always fun!
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Lovely! What a blast from the past! Really nice rhyme! Good luck!
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Haha yes a blast from the past! Thanks so much!
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Great rhyme and wonderful writing for a small moment between two friends!
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Thank you,. I loved those simple times with a good friend.
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Love. This. Brings me back to when I was little. All ages would love it!
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Thank you for your kind words!
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This is a nice little peek to the past on how kids played that would be a great story for children to read today. I can picture the illustrations and a DIY craft to go along with it. Very unique topic! Good luck!
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Thank you Ashley. I love the craft idea!
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I really liked this! The rhyming really worked nicely.
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Thank you Mandy!
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I love the nostalgia in this piece. Actually, I hope it is not nostalgic because everyone should experience the tin can phone in their childhood–especially with all of the whiz bang gadgets, electronics, and gizmos now. I love the simpler life and creative childhood pretend play this piece evokes. Well done.
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Thank you so much Aimee. Yes too many gadgets, time for a little low tech play.
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Hahaha – Loved the ending!
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Thank you so much Pat!
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So clever! Your topic is a rare one and bring back memories of many “can phones’ that my friends and I used to share secrets. How fun!
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Thanks Marsha I used to love making these can phones as a kid, brought back memories for me too lol.
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Loved this very kid appropriate story. Great visual and remember doing this when I was a kid with my brother. 🙂
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HOME
Mama hen sat on her eggs to keep them warm.
When the baby chicks pecked their way out of their shells, one looked different.
A duck egg had rolled into the nest.
“Peep, peep.”
“Quack.”
Mama hen gathered the chicks under her wings.
“Quack!”
“Cluck! You, too.”
Duck was home.
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Here’s the link to my site: https://www.writing-for-children.webnode.com/
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Like your sweet story of acceptance. What a lucky duck.
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Lovely! So full of heart! Good luck in the contest!
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What a lovely story, Debra! One of inclusivity and love…definitely something we need more of these days!
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Aww so cute. Loved the acceptance theme of this story. All the best.
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Pingback: SCBWI WIP Awards, #50PreciousWords and More Cookies – Helen Ishmurzin
SUNSHINE
by Lori Himmel
You whispered me awake, “sunshine.”
Flipped pancakes, poured my juice, so kind.
Held my hand on the way to school.
Reminded me of the “golden rule.”
“Oops!” I dropped a plate, so sad.
Hugged me tight and didn’t get mad.
Read my favorite books in bed.
“Goodnight, my little sleepy-head.”
https://lorihimmel.com/2019/02/19/50-precious-words-writing-challenge/
LikeLiked by 13 people
You captured such a sweet relationship in so few words. I loved the whispered way to wake up.
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Thank you, Maria!
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Lovely job, Lori. Full of heart and sunshine 🙂
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So sweet of you to say! Thanks!
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“You whispered me awake, ‘sunshine’ ” is such a beautiful line.
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I appreciate this, Danielle. Thank you!
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You’ve got some beautiful language here, Lori…and a lovely look at the mother/child relationship…well done!
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With beautiful sweet rhyme you take us from morning to night. Expanded this would make a lovely picture book.
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This story was removed at the request of the author who is sending it out…all good wishes for a successful submission, Arlene!
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Lovely small moment children can relate to.
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Thank you! It was a moment I had as a child so i guess it’s authentic 🙂
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So sweet! Made me remember my too-cool-for-mom-ten year old and his first trip to the beach. (Does anyone have a tissue?) Great job!
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Thanks, Ciara. We moms are cry babies when it comes to sentimental moments with our kids!
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What a fun capture of a seemingly small moment that carries such a big reward for the kid’s self-esteem. Great description of ocean – “swirling above . . .peace and calm below.”
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Thank you, Maria!
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This first experience of being in the sea is so cute :o)
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A lovely vignette of fun by the sea! I love how you capture the wave and the feeling of pride and achievement at conquering it in so few words. Nice job, Arlene.
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A great children’s first experience story. Good luck!
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Very relatable first experience that many kids could relate to. Nice work!
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Nice job Arlene! You’ve captured that fun moment of ducking under a wave.
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Thanks, Mary. I haven’t seen your entry yet.
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Good one, Arlene. I grew up by salt water, too! I can feel it.
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Wonderful action verbs and visuals, Arlene…and as a non-swimmer, I really appreciated the triumph of your mc. Well done!
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Thanks,Vivian. Your words mean a lot to me.
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Beautiful moment in the water for a small child. This would make a great story to read to your child before going to the beach. Love it.
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LITTLE SEED by Nicole Loos Miller (50 words)
Little seed, little seed,
With water,
Soil,
And air,
Look how you grow!
Little plant, little plant,
With water,
Soil,
Air,
And sun,
Look how you grow!
Little flower, little flower,
With water,
Soil,
Air,
Sun,
And bees,
Look how you grow!
Little seed, little seed…
Here we grow again!
LikeLiked by 13 people
I lobe how you got so much in such a small space, beautiful building too😊
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I love how you repeat and grow your words just like the plant. Brilliant.
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A plant life cycle! Beautiful and inspiring!
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Wow, you captured the circular growth cycle of a flower seed in 50 words. Impressive. Great progressive format, too.
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Love this little cumulative style life cycle story, with a lovely repeating line too! Nice job, Nicole. Good luck.
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Wow! The life cycle of a plant in 50 words. Well donee Nicole!
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Really cute and clever. The added change each time to show how the growth changes and what is needed at each stage. And the awesome ending! Great job! Good luck!
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Love the rhythmic feel and the way your stanzas grow with the plant. Great work!
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I love the repetition, playful tone, and fun ending, Nicole!
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What a great progressive story that shows the life cycle of a plant…love the repetition, Nicole!
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Loved how you had the whole growth of the seed to flowering plant in so few words. Very cleverly done. All the best.
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Pearl The Purse
Pearl the purse, was full of words but had no mouth to speak.
She searched for one to learn the words. She was meant to teach.
She found a box and it could talk, but needed words to borrow.
Pearl blinked in glory of the story both would tell tomorrow.
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Fun little poem on cooperation, with unique characters. Nicely done.
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Hi David, your poem has a bit of a riddle feel to it for me. Glad Pearl found Box…would love to hear the stories they will tell! Good luck!
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Such a clever rhyme, David! And I’m so glad that Pearl is going to have the opportunity to share her thoughts. 😉
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Fun story with unique characters. Very cleverly executed.
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The Itch Trials
By Carolyn Farina
He must be guilty. His head has bugs.
See him itch? See him scratch?
Shave his head before more hatch.
Buzz.
Whew!
Just thinking of those creepy crawlies dancing through my hair makes me itch, makes me scratch.
Oh no! Did one just hatch?
Wait!
No!
Buzz.
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Now I am feeling itchy. Great ending.
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Oh no! Now my head is itchy too! No buzzing for me though!
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Poor narrator! I really like the word play in the title. The power of suggestion is strong in this one. It definitely sticks with you in more ways than one! 🙂
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A very relatable topic for parents. Great idea. Good luck!
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This is so fun! Well done- we had our turn with the “itchies” after an 8th grade sleepover. Brings back memories.
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We are all going to be felling quite itchy now, Carolyn! You definitely put us right in the setting…well done!
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Now I feel all itchy. 🙂 Great job.
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Ah yes, birthday cakes for mom (or breakfasts in bed) are such sweet endeavors. [Just don’t ever look in the kitchen.] I love how the child turned a “tragedy” into a castle cake – so ingenious. This is a really fun story with so much action and emotion. It’s hard to believe it’s just 50 words. Great use of structure to build this sweet story. 🙂
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Glug-Thump-Whomp by Monica Acker (35 words)
We drive into the open mouth.
WHOOSH SWISH PISH
GLUG THUMP WHOMP
Bubbles scrubble grumble tumble.
Tentacles bump. Feelers thump.
Rollers squish.
ROAR!
We glide toward the light ahead.
The car sparkles in the sunshine.
LikeLiked by 18 people
Ha! I love the suspense. The hole time I thought of what it could be, something in the ocean, an octopus, surprise! Carwash! 😍 Thanks for the fun!
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Yay! Thank you!
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You’re welcome and sorry for the typo (*whole time oops)
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Love the twist at the end. Grumble, tentacles, feelers – some strange ocean monster? Nope, a creative look at a car wash! Great job pulling off a story & a twist in such few words!
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Thank you!
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I was thinking sea monster too! Great twist! I’m going to need to read this to my kiddos the next time we go through the car wash, haha
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Haha! That would be fun. Thanks for the kind words.
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Love this. Such a fun story to illustrate. Good Luck in the contest.
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Thanks!
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Ha! Too cute! I had no idea they were driving into a carwash! Great twist! 🙂
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Thanks!
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The description and the action throughout the story kept up the anticipation. With the twist at the end. Good luck!
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Thank you!
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This is so much fun. I love the playful words and the surprise ending.
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I love that we don’t know what it is until the end! Great imagery. Very relatable! Well done!
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Thanks so much!
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So kind. Thank you.
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I love the surprise ending, Monica! Great use of onomatopoeia as well. What a fun ride through the car wash!
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Love all the sound words!
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This is great Monica! The end was a total surprise. Good luck!
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Thanks!
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Oh, I love this! I was wondering where we were and was thinking I was part of a little school of fish cleaning some ocean creature’s mouth or something. . .and instead, I was being taken for a ride! 😉 Such great word choices!