WELCOME TO ALL! Whether you have participated in previous years or you are just dipping your toes in for the first time – whether you are a pre-published author or you have multiple books out there already – I am so very glad you are here!
The #50PreciousWords 2021 International Writing Contest is OVER and the 51 finalists will be announced March 31. If you have trouble accessing the entries, you are not alone. We had so many comments (over 10,000), I think we broke WordPress, but the tech gurus are at work trying to resolve the issue. Thank you so much for your patience.
Congratulations to all who participated! We had a record 763 entries! The linky list is complete. You can find your story or a particular story by scrolling down and clicking on the link. PLEASE NOTE: THE LINKY LIST IS NOT WORKING RIGHT NOW. But you can read many of the entries by scrolling through.
I hope you will visit many of the stories.- getting positive comments is a great validation for writers – and reading other stories is a wonderful learning tool for all of us!
I’ll be reading all of these amazing stories…and so will my assistant judges. There are going to be some very difficult decisions to make…so many of the stories are top-notch – several feel like they should be on shelves already! But right now, please celebrate your courage and hard work! YOU DID IT! And, if you didn’t participate this year with a story, I hope you will next year! Because we all have a story to tell – and I’d love to read your precious words.
Study the guidelines (they are easy-peasy), scroll through the prizes (they are extraordinary), and share your #50PreciousWords story in the comment section (we are all here to support and encourage you on your writing journey).
A bit of the back story: In 2016, I had an idea for a contest that would exercise our writing muscles and force us to make every work count. Over the years, several entries have become books, many participants have signed with agents…but what I love the most is the enthusiasm and the positive energy that this contest generates.
Here’s the 50-word story I wrote as a sample for the 2017 #50PreciousWords Contest – I had fun with it and that’s what I hope you will discover during this adventure – to find joy in what you are doing.
WHY PIGS LOVE THEIR LITTLE FEET (50 words)
Everyone made fun of Pig’s little feet.
An invitation arrived.
Please come to Coyote’s feast.
Rooster knew the invitation was for him.
Cow disagreed.
They hurried to Coyote’s den.
Pig followed.
By the time his little feet got him there, the feast was finished.
And so were Rooster and Cow.
##
GUIDELINES FOR #50PRECIOUSWORDS
- Write a story appropriate for kids ages 12 or under, that has a total word count of 50 or less.
- It can be prose, rhyme, free verse, silly or serious…whatever works for you.
- Title does not count towards the word count.
- No illustrations or illustration notes please.
- The contest officially opens today, Tuesday, March 2.
- Between March 2 and March 7, you must post your story in the comments of this special contest blog post. If you have a blog of your own and want to post it there also, that is terrific…you can add the link to your comment so we can all go and visit you there. Also, please make sure you put your name in the post.
- Only ONE entry per person, please. I know…it’s hard to choose. But we had 392 entries last year – that’s a lot of stories for me and my assistants to read and comment on. Just think, if everyone had submitted two, that would have been almost 800 entries.
- If you have children who are inspired to write a story, please let them know that in May, we do have the #50PreciousWordsforKids Challenge and I would LOVE to have them enter their stories then.
- If you have any questions or have trouble posting your story, please email me and I will be happy to help: viviankirkfield@gmail.com.
- Deadline for posting the story in the comments is Sunday, March 7th, at 11:59pm EST.
- Winners will be announced in a blog post on the first day of Spring, Saturday, March 20.
- First place winner will choose a prize first. Second place winner goes next and can choose from the remaining prizes. And so on. There are 51 prizes – critiques with EDITORS and AGENTS and PUBLISHED AUTHORS, seats in WRITING CLASSES, a PORTFOLIO REVIEW, SIGNED PICTURE BOOKS…and more. The book prizes are limited to USA addresses, please.
PRIZES FOR #50PRECIOUSWORDS – I started out organizing the list, but as prizes were added, that became impossible. Please look through the list carefully. There are critiques with editors, critiques with agents, critiques with authors, seats in picture book writing classes, original art, signed books – please join me in thanking all of these generous donors.
Prize A: A Picture Book Critique with Houghton Mifflin Harcourt executive editor ANN RIDER. Ann was my editor for FROM HERE TO THERE – and working with her was an awesome experience! HMH is closed to un-agented/unsolicited submissions – this is a life-changing golden opportunity for one of the participants of #50PreciousWords. Here is a link to a fab interview she did with Michelle Barnes: https://michellehbarnes.blogspot.com/2016/11/spotlight-on-ann-rider-dmc-challenge.html

- Picture Book Critique with Little Bee editor COURTNEY FAHY. Courtney was my editor for MAKING THEIR VOICES HEARD – she was a joy to work with.

Courtney Fahy is the Editorial Assistant at Little Bee Books and Yellow Jacket, where she acquires and edits board books, picture books, and middle grade novels. Some of Courtney’s picture books include Saving the Countryside: The Story of Beatrix Potter and Peter Rabbit by Linda Marshall, Making Their Voices Heard: The Inspiring Friendship of Ella Fitzgerald and Marilyn Monroe by Vivian Kirkfield, Mootilda’s Bad Mood by Corey Rosen Schwartz and Kirsti Call, as well as Moonbeams: A Lullaby of the Phases of the Moon by Ann Bausum. Prior to joining Little Bee Books, Courtney interned at Macmillan at Roaring Brook Press and Farrar, Straus, and Giroux for Young Readers, as well as W.W. Norton. Originally from New Jersey, Courtney graduated from Pace University with a Master in Science in publishing. You can find Courtney on Twitter @courtneyfahy.
2. A Critique with my amazing agent Essie White, founder of Storm Literary

There isn’t enough room on this page to detail how amazing my beloved agent, Essie White is. This is an unbelievable opportunity to get your manuscript in front of a stellar agent who is currently closed to submission.
3, A Critique with the fabulous Vicki Selvaggio, agent and partner at Storm Literary

Victoria Selvaggio, previously with The Jennifer De Chiara Literary Agency was drawn to the publishing scene first as an author. She is a prior Regional Advisor for SCBWI: Northern Ohio, where her desire to help writers and illustrators reach their publications goals inspired her to become an agent.
As a frequent presenter at conferences, library events, contests, etc., Victoria is always interested in meeting writers and illustrators, and hearing about unique projects! This is a life-changing opportunity for some writer because Vicki is currently closed to submissions.
4. Critique from Callie Metler-Smith, publisher of Spork/&mg

I’ve never met Callie in person, but I have shared a webinar stage with her – she’s an amazing woman – generous and kind and a crackerjack editor! It’s a gift just to know her – and someone is going to have the opportunity to connect with her over their manuscript.
5. Seat in Callie Metler Smith’s NEW course on MARKETING for AUTHORS
Callie Metler-Smith is the CEO and founder of Clear Fork Publishing in Stamford, Texas. She answers to the following titles: Publisher of Books, Newspaper Chick, Bookstore Owner, Writer, Illustrator, Wife, Mom, and Friend.She’s a savvy businesswoman…this is a stellar opportunity to work with and learn from her.
6. A PB Manuscript Critique (650 words or less – non-rhyming) from the amazing Art Director and CBA Founder MIRA REISBERG. https://www.childrensbookacademy.com/

I finally got to meet Mira at the Sydney SCBWI Conference where she was a keynote speaker and I was on the program also. Mira has definitely helped many writers and artists realize their dreams by becoming published authors and illustrators
7. Critique with Melissa Richeson – Associate Agent at Storm Literary

Melissa Richeson comes to Storm with prior experience as an associate literary agent and a growing list of clients. To build her client list, Melissa is drawn to witty wording and whimsical design for picture books, humor and quick pacing for chapter books, charming mysteries or magic in middle grade, and fresh, character-driven stories in young adult. She’s not the best fit for horror, high fantasy, paranormal, or graphic violence of any kind.
8. A Critique with Lisa Amstutz – Associate Agent with Storm Literary

Lisa Amstutz fell in love with reading at an early age, devouring stacks of books from the library each week. While she never stopped reading, she earned degrees in Biology and Environmental Science and worked as a lab technician, outdoor educator, and small-scale farmer before returning to her first love: books.
With sixteen years of experience as an author and freelance editor, Lisa comes to Storm Literary Agency as an Associate Literary Agent. She has written more than 140 books for the educational and trade markets as well as numerous magazine and newspaper articles. As an editor and mentor, she worked with writers to shape and polish their manuscripts, many of which went on to land agents or book contracts. She also edited materials for several publishing companies.
9. Seat in Making Picture Book Writing Magic course from the founder of Perfect Picture Book Friday, NYTimes Best-selling author Susanna Leonard Hill. https://susannahill.com/for-writers/making-picture-book-magic/



What can I say about Susanna? Her class was the first picture book writing course I took – and it provided an amazing foundation for me. She is a mentor to all, providing challenges and contests to keep us motivated and inspired!
10. Picture Book Editor-in-a-Box Package from author, editor, and arts educator Emma Walton Hamilton. Editor in a Box is a complete 6-step revision system that empowers writers to be their own best editors … to make the most of every submission opportunity, and to become the professional author they dream of being.


Emma Walton Hamilton definitely knows what she is talking about! I took one of her JustWrite4Kids courses early on in my writing career – she is smart, generous, and she knows what she is talking about!
11. A seat in the ART OF ARC writing course and a set of webinars on the craft of writing from author and Blue Whale Editor ALAYNE CHRISTIAN.



Alayne Kay Christian is the acquisitions editor for Blue Whale Press, an award-winning children’s book author, and the creator and teacher of a picture book writing course Art of Arc. In addition, she shares her knowledge with writers through free and affordable webinars at Writing for Children Webinars.
https://alaynekaychristianauthor.com/
https://www.bluewhalepress.com/
Art of Arc http://www.alaynekaychristian.com/contact.html
Webinars https://alaynekaychristianauthor.com/webinars
12. Seat in Master Class in Picture Book Writing from author Karla Valenti



Karla was born and grew up in Mexico City. Since then, she has had the great privilege and opportunity to live in a number of places: the U.S., Japan, France, and most recently Germany. She currently lives in the Chicagoland area where she keeps herself busy with lots of words and big ideas (both in her job as a lawyer and author).
Her writerly self focuses on picture books and middle grade novels. She also offers a Master Course on Picture Book Writing and Editing and Picture Book critique services.
She is rep’ed by the inimitable Ammi-Joan Paquette at Erin Murphy Literary Agency.
Find her on Facebook or Twitter
13. A 60-minute Zoom manuscript consultation OR a Seat in the Lyrical Language Lab Rhyme and MeterSelf-Study Course from the incredible Renee LaTulippe

I took Renee’s regular Lyrical Language Lab course and it really helped me become a better writer. This self-study class is perfect for those who like to pace themselves.
14. Membership in New Hampshire Writers Project

The New Hampshire Writers’ Project (NHWP) supports the development of individual writers and encourages an audience for literature in our state. The membership provides a member’s rate on all webinars, workshops, and the 603 conference. There is also access to a members-only resources section on the website that offers discounts on software, PR services, editing and publishing services, book cover design, access to our webinars, archives, and the opportunity to participate and win prizes in exclusive events such as the Three-Minute Fiction Slam, the 603 conference Pitch Party, and the new monthly Writing Prompt Challenge. This is open to anyone – you don’t need to live in New Hampshire:
https://nhwritersproject.org/resources/
15. Illustrator Portfolio Review or 30-minute Zoom chat with Erika Meza



Erika Meza is an author and illustrator from Mexico. After studying graphic design back home, she moved to Paris to attend the Illustration (Image Imprimée) program at ENSAD. She now lives with a French cat in London and works with ink, gouaches, watercolor pencils and Photoshop, fueled by chocolate and incessant cups of coffee. Her newest book, BALLOONS FOR PAPA, written by Liz Bedia, launches in April of this year.
16. Rhyming PB Critique from author Lori Degman



Lori Degman is the author of the award-winning picture books, 1 Zany Zoo (illus. by Colin Jack) – 2010 Winner of the Cheerios New Author Contest and 2013 Illinois Reads featured title; Cock-a-Doodle Oops!(illus. by Deborah Zemke) – 2014 International Literacy Association Honor Book, and Just Read (illus. by Victoria Tentler-Krylov) – 2020/21 Illinois Reads featured title. Other titles include Norbert’s Big Dream (illus. by Marco Bucci), Like a Girl (illus. by Mara Penny, and Travel Guide For Monsters (illus. by Dave Szalay). Lori enjoys helping fellow rhymers by doing critiques and mentoring. Visit her at www.Loridegman.com.
17. PB Critique plus a copy of her latest picture book from author/illustrator Patricia Keeler



Patricia Keeler is the author/illustrator of SCOOP THE ICE CREAM TRUCK and LIZZIE AND LOU SEAL, both of Sky Pony Press. Patricia received the Christopher Medal in 2011 for her illustrations in WOULD YOU STILL LOVE ME IF. Patricia won the children’s book category for the New York Book Festival 2013. Her work has been a selection of the Junior Library Guild and the Children’s Book-of-the-Month Club. Find out more about her and her books at www.patriciakeeler-author-illustrator.com and follow her on Instagram @patricia.keeler.books.
18. PB Critique and copy of Nova the Star Eater from author Lindsay Leslie.



Lindsay likes to bring her unique outlook on life, quirky humor, and play with words to the page in picture books. She is the author of THIS BOOK IS SPINELESS, NOVA THE STAR EATER, and DUSK EXPLORERS. Lindsay lives with her husband, two boys, two dogs, a guinea pig, and a tortoise in Austin.
19. PB Critique from author Keila V. Dawson



Before becoming a children’s book author, Keila Dawson worked as a teacher, school administrator, and educational consultant in the U.S., the Philippines, Japan, and Egypt.
A native of New Orleans, Keila is the author of THE KING CAKE BABY which celebrates one of the unique cultural traditions in her hometown – eating King Cake during the Mardi Gras season, NO VOICE TOO SMALL: Fourteen Young Americans Making History, co-edited with Jeanette Bradley and Lindsay H. Metcalf, and OPENING THE ROAD: Victor Hugo Green and the Green Book.
Keila is a member of SCBWI, writes monthly author studies for the Reading for Research Month (ReFoReMo) blog, and reviews books for Multicultural Children’s Book Day. When Keila isn’t reading, writing, and visiting schools, she’s traveling, playing tennis, or digging in genealogical archives.
Twitter: @keila_dawson Website: http://www.keiladawson.com
Facebook author page: @keilavdawson
20. Non-Rhyming Picture Book 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 2020); and the picture books Scarlet’s Magic Paintbrush and Ready, Set, GOrilla! (Clear Fork, 2018). Upcoming picture books include Return of the Magic Paintbrush and Sadie’s Shabbat Stories (Clear Fork, 2020). 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. In other chapters of her life, 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 Temple Shaaray Tefila, and a past trustee at The Hewitt School. Melissa lives in New York City with her husband, three daughters, and one puppy.
www.MelissaSoller.com http://www.facebook.com/MelissaStoller
http://www.twitter.com/melissastoller http://www.instagram.com/Melissa_Stoller
https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissastoller/ http://www.pinterest.com/melissa_Stoller
21. Picture Book Critique or Query Letter Critique from author Laura Roettiger


Laura Roettiger is the author of ALIANA REACHES FOR THE MOON and has enjoyed working with children ever since she was no longer considered a child herself. She was a reading specialist and elementary teacher in Chicago, IL before moving to the Rocky Mountains of Colorado where she worked in Environmental Education and as a new teacher mentor for two years at a STEM school. She is a judge for Rate Your Story, an active member of SCBWI and 12x12PictureBook Challenge. Laura works with third grade classrooms through #KidsNeedMentors, tutors adults in the Boulder Reads Literacy program at the Boulder Public Library, and works with BookstoKids, a Colorado based literacy nonprofit. Her superpower is encouraging curiosity in children and her students, letting them know she believes in them. She has three children of her own whose curiosity and creativity led all of them into STEM related professions.
Aliana Reaches for the Moon
Website: LauraRoettigerBooks.co
Twitter: @ljrwritenow
22. Picture Book Critique from author Maria Marshall

Maria is a children’s author, blogger, and poet passionate about making nature and reading fun for children. She’s a Cybils Awards judge ( http://www.cybils.com/) and a contributing blogger for STEM Tuesday – From the Mixed-up Files of MG Authors ( https://fromthemixedupfiles.com/stem-tuesday/). She interviews authors & illustrators and reviews books on -The Picture Book Buzz ( www.mariacmarshall.com/blog). Her poems are published in The Best Of Today’s Little Ditty 2017-2018, 2016, & 2014-2015 anthologies. When not writing, critiquing, or reading, she bird watches, travels the world, bakes, and hikes.
23. Awesome bundle #1 of THREE brand-new picture books from Maria Marshall.

- 24, Awesome bundle #2 of THREE brand-new picture books from Maria Marshall.

- 25. Awesome bundle #3 of THREE brand new picture books from Maria Marshall.

- 26. Picture Book Critique from author Katey Howes



Katey Howes is thrilled to be making books for children. She also makes bad jokes, great apple crisp, and messy mistakes. Katey lives in Upper Makefield, Pennsylvania (really!) with her husband and three adventurous daughters-makers. A former physical therapist specializing in brain injury, Katey now divides her time between writing award-winning stories and raising kids with a love of books. She also contributes to parenting, literacy and STEM websites including All the Wonders, The Nerdy Bookclub, STEAM Powered Family and Imagination Soup. Find Katey on Twitter @kateywrites and on Instagram @kidlitlove.
27. A PB Critique from Kirsti Call.



Kirsti Call loves putting words together. She co-runs Reading for Research month, has judged for the Cybil’s award since 2014, blogs for Writer’s Rumpus, and her second picture book, Mootilda’s Bad Mood (Little Bee) came out in 2020 while Cow Says Meow (HMH) and Cold Turkey (Little Brown) release in 2021!
Instagram @kirsticall Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kirsti.call
Twitter: @kirsticall Websites: www.kirsticall.com, www.writersrumpus.com, www.reforemo.com
28. Picture Book Critique from author Ellen Leventhal or a signed copy of one of her books.


Ellen Leventhal is an educator and writer in Houston, TX. Her writing usually contains universal themes to which children can relate–even if the thoughts occasionally come from talking cows or lambs. She can’t remember a time when she wasn’t writing in some capacity. Ellen is the co-author of Don’t Eat the Bluebonnets and the author of Lola Can’t Leap. Her newest picture book based on the many flood disasters she and her family endured, launches this year, Flood of Kindness. She has been published in magazines and newspapers as well as in short story and poetry anthologies. Ellen loves school visits! When visiting schools, she coordinates with and supports literacy programs as well as diversity and anti-bullying programs. Ellen’s best days are when she can interact directly with the students and spread her love of literacy and kindness. To find out more about Ellen’s books and writing projects, please go to www.Ellenleventhal.com
29. 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 2018), Korean Celebrations (Tuttle 2019), My Breakfast with Jesus: Worshipping God around the World (Harvest House 2020), and The Ocean Calls: A Haenyeo Mermaid Story (Kokila/Penguin Random House Aug. 2020). Her lyrical middle grade graphic novel, The Other Side of Tomorrow, debuts from Harper Alley in 2023. After living in South Korea for ten years, Tina, her husband, and two teenagers reside in Iowa where Tina also teaches kindergarten.
Twitter: @TinaMCho
IG: @TinaMCho
website: http://www.tinamcho.com
30. Picture Book Critique or Signed Picture Books from author Amber Hendricks



Amber Hendricks is the author of Sophie and Little Star (Clear Fork/Spork, 2018), Extraordinary Ordinary Ella (Amicus Ink, 2020), Superheroes Don’t Babysit (Beaming Books, 2020), and the Little Nature Explorers board book series (Amicus Ink, 2020/21). The first two titles in the Little Nature Explorers series, Wildflowers Grow and Butterflies Soar, got their start as entries in the 50 Precious Words Contest!
31.Picture Book Critique from author Beth Anderson



Beth Anderson, a former English as a Second Language teacher, has always marveled at the power of books. With linguistics and reading degrees, a fascination with language, and a penchant for untold tales, she strives for accidental learning in the midst of a great story. Beth lives in Loveland, Colorado where she laughs, ponders, and questions; and hopes to inspire kids to do the same. She’s the award-winning author of TAD LINCOLN’S RESTLESS WRIGGLE (10/2021), “SMELLY” KELLY AND HIS SUPER SENSES, LIZZIE DEMANDS A SEAT, and AN INCONVENIENT ALPHABET. Beth has more historical gems on the way.
@Bandersonwriter (Pinterest, Twitter, Instagram)
https://www.facebook.com/beth.anderson.3367174
32. Picture Book Critique from author Liz Bedia



Elizabeth (Liz) Gilbert Bedia grew up in the rural Midwest surrounded by fields, blue sky, and a multitude of animals, where she became a keen observer with a big imagination. Liz loved creating stories about the world around her and turned to books to learn more. After college she worked as a researcher, educator, and audiologist. While raising her own children, she returned to her creative roots and started writing books for children. She loves creating heartfelt stories for children about our amazing world.
She is the author of Bess the Barn Stands Strong (Page Street Kids), Arthur Wants a Balloon (Trigger Publishing, UK), and the forthcoming Balloons for Papa (HarperCollins). Liz lives in central Iowa with her husband, two children, and two dogs. For more information, visit: elizabethgilbertbedia.com.
33. Signed copy of one of her books from author Nancy Churnin

A native New Yorker, Nancy is a graduate of Harvard University, with a master’s from Columbia University. She lives in North Texas with her husband, a dog named Dog and two cantankerous cats. Learn more about Nancy at www.nancychurnin.com
34. Picture Book Critique (fiction) from author Lisa Katzenberger.



Lisa Katzenberger lives in La Grange, IL in a hundred-year-old Victorian house with sloping hardwood floors, glass doorknobs, and the tiniest bathroom you’ve ever seen. She has a great husband and amazing boy-girl twins. She’s an active member of SCBWI, where she volunteer as the Social Media Coordinator for the SCBWI-Illinois region. Lisa works part-time as a technical writing consultant to fund her writing conference habit. She is represented by Wendi Gu of Sanford J. Greenburger Associates.
35. Picture Book Critique from author Jenna Grodzicki



Jenna is the author of both fiction and nonfiction picture books, including Finn Finds a Friend (Clear Fork Publishing, 2017), I See Sea Food: Sea Creatures That Look Like Food (Millbrook Press, 2019), Harmony Humbolt: Perfect Pets Queen (Clear Fork Publishing, Fall 2020), and Wild Style: Amazing Animal Adornments (Millbrook Press, September 2020). She lives in Connecticut with her husband and two crazy awesome kids. At all hours of the day (and night) she can be found at her desk, drinking iced coffee and working on her next story. Jenna is represented by Victoria Selvaggio of Storm Literary Agency.
- 36. Picture Book Critique from Lydia Lukidis



Lydia Lukidis writes for children aged 3-12, and her artistic mandate is to inspire and enlighten. She’s the author of three trade picture books, thirty educational books, thirty-two eBooks, as well as numerous articles and stories. Her latest STEM book, THE BROKEN BEES’ NEST(Boyds Mills & Kane, 2019), was nominated for a CYBILS Award, and she’s a two-time finalist for the #PBParty contest. Her background is multi-disciplinary and spans the fields of literature, science, and puppetry.
Lydia is an active member of SCBWI, CANSCAIP, 12 x 12, The Authors Guild and QWF. She’s very involved in the kidlit community through her blog and newsletters, as well as on social media. She’s also a judge on Rate your Story. Another passion of hers is fostering a love for literacy with children through the writing workshops she regularly offers in elementary schools.
Lydia is represented by literary agent Miranda Paul from the Erin Murphy Literary Agency. For more information, please visit www.lydialukidis.com.
37. Picture Book Critique from Carrie Charley Brown


Carrie Charley Brown is the founder and co-coordinator of ReFoReMo. She eats, sleeps, and breathes picture books as an elementary school librarian, writer, and professional critique mentor. Carrie serves as a 12 x 12 Critique Ninja and contributed as a CYBILS fiction picture book panelist and regional advisor for SCBWI North Texas. She enjoys blogging, reviewing books, and spreading mentor text love. Her publications include ghostwritten projects and teacher resources. Carrie has a Masters of Education in School Library Media, and an endorsement in Literacy. She loves motivating people of all ages to discover the joy of reading by connecting personal interests.
Twitter https://twitter.com/carriebrowntx @carriebrowntx
ReFoReMo Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1574236042820744
Personal FB page https://www.facebook.com/carrie.brown.56614
- 38. Picture Book Critique from author Rosie J. Pova


Rosie J. Pova is a multi-published, award-winning children’s author, poet, speaker, and writing coach. She’s a Writing Instructor for the Dallas Independent School District through The Writer’s Garret, an instructor with Writing Workshops Dallas, teaching online picture book courses to children’s writers, and also serves as a judge for Rate Your Story.
Rosie speaks on many women’s topics as well and has appeared on radio and print media.
Her upcoming picture book,Sunday Rain, celebrates imagination, the love of books, and new friendships. Her other upcoming picture book, The School of Failure: A Story About Success will be released in spring of 2022. Visit Rosie at www.rosiejpova.com.
Website Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Instagram
39. Signed Copy of LAILA AND THE SANDS OF TIME from author Shirin Shamsi


Shirin was born and raised in the U.K. and now resides in the US. Laila and The Sands of Time is her debut Middle-grade novel
40. A 30-minute Zoom chat with me – about writing, the path to publication, or whatever you’d like to talk about.



41. Two Beautiful Board Books from Rina Singh



Writer for children, Own Voices author and Spoken Word coach. Rina has an MFA in creative writing and is the author of many critically acclaimed picture books for children. Her most recent publications are A MEETING IN THE SKY (Creative Editions); Holi Colors & Diwali Lights (Orca Books); Grandmother School (Orca Books); 111 Trees (Kids Can Press); A Garden of Grenades (Greystone Kids) coming out in 2022. Her daughter is a professional photographer in Toronto and her son works in finance in San Francisco. She lives with her husband in a blue house in Toronto, Canada. It’s surrounded by tall trees and it feels like she is living in a forest. There are birds, squirrels, even a rabbit and a fish pond with Japanese koi in it. She likes writing amongst the trees.
You can connect with her on her website www.rinasingh.com or on Instagram & Twitter @storiesbysingh
42. The Writer’s Weekly Planner from Judy Cooper and Dea Lenihan
A planner that is designed specifically for writers that gives you a place to organize all your brilliant story ideas, record important writing related appointments and establish your writing focus for each week with plenty of room to capture all those notes that used to end up on scraps of paper and napkins. Also included are inspiring quotes to let you know you’re not alone on this journey.



Judy Cooper is an award recipient of the 2021 SCBWI FL Rising Kite contest for her picture book manuscript, You Might Be an Artist. With her passion for inspiring and nurturing creativity in young children, she has designed a curriculum for and taught arts enrichment classes to children in grades PreK-4th. She has intensively studied the craft of picture book writing for the past 3 years with membership in SCBWI, Rate Your Story and 12×12, and has worked as a booking agent for kidlit authors. Judy has lived in many places including Miami, New York, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Poland. Fulfilling a 20-year goal, she now lives near the happiest place on earth and works joyfully with her cowriter and dear friend, Dea Lenihan.
Dea Lenihan is an artist and writer whose drawings have been featured at The Eric Carle Museum of Storybook Art. Her designs can be found in children’s books, the cover of a history book, and a series of best-selling adult coloring books. Dea is currently an active member of SCBWI, Rate Your Story, and a past Picture Book Summiteer. She is enchanted by the unusual: living things that glow, lavender-colored eyes, and the many forms of ice. In her past life she was an editorial makeup artist and undercover short-story writer. She feels lucky to now spend her days drawing and writing near the sea, often exchanging ideas with her favorite writing partner and friend, Judy Cooper.
Listing link for ETSY: https://www.etsy.com/listing/951715772/i-am-a-writer-28-week-writers-planner?ref=shop_home_feat_1&frs=1
Website link: https://www.dealenihan.com
43. A Teacher’s DREAM prize! Are you a writer who teaches? Award-winning author Darlene Jacobson is offering a 30-minute Skype/Zoom classroom visit PLUS a copy of each of her middle grade books: Wheels of Change AND Wishes, Dares, & How To Stand Up To A Bully.



Darlene Beck Jacobson, a 2021 recipient of the Notable Verse Novels Award by the NCTE for her novel WISHES, DARES, AND HOW TO STAND UP TO A BULLY (Creston), is a former teacher and speech therapist who has loved writing ever since she can remember. She is also a lover of history and can often be found mining skeletons from her past to incorporate bits of her ancestry into her award winning books. She lives in New Jersey and tries to be careful what she wishes for. Her blog features interviews with children’s book authors and illustrators, recipes, activities, crafts, articles on nature, and book reviews. www.darlenebeckjacobson.com
Twitter: @DBeckJacobson
44. A Manuscript Critique or a 30-minute Zoom chat with debut picture book author Anna Lazowski.


Anna Lazowski wrote her first picture book for a class assignment in the sixth grade and has been creating stories ever since. Now an award-winning radio producer, Anna got back into writing picture books after searching for a new creative outlet. She has an MA (Journalism) from the University of Western Ontario and a BFA (Hons.) from the University of Manitoba and is a member of SCBWI. Anna’s debut picture book, T. REXES CAN’T TIE THEIR SHOES (Doubleday Books for Young Readers), illustrated by Steph Laberis, is launching June 29, 2021.
Website: https://www.annalazowskibooks.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/anna_lazowski
45. An Author Showcase Premium book marketing package to gain visibility and publicity for your children’s book on The Children’s Book Review – or A signed copy of both Don’t Wake the Dragon and Who Loves the Dragon? from author Bianca Schulze.



Bianca Schulze is the founder and editor of The Children’s Book Review – a resource devoted to children’s literature and literacy. Bianca is also the bestselling author of 101 Books to Read Before You Grow Up (an Amazon “Book of the Month” in 2016) and the highly enjoyable and interactive picture book Don’t Wake the Dragon. She is a reader, reviewer, mother, and children’s book lover. Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, Bianca now lives with her husband and three children near Boulder, Colorado. To learn more, visit https://www.biancaschulze.com/ and https://www.thechildrensbookreview.com/
46. A Picture Book Manuscript Critique with a 20-minutes phone chat from author Zeena Pliska.


Zeena M. Pliska spends her days immersed in the joy of 5-year-olds. She is a kindergarten teacher by day and a children’s book author by night in Los Angeles, California. A progressive public school educator, she believes that the most important aspect of teaching is listening to children. A social justice activist and organizer for over 30 years, she brings race, class, and gender analysis to everything she does. A lifetime storyteller, she has facilitated stories as a theater director, visual artist, photographer and journalist. Her debut picture book, Hello Little One: A Monarch Butterfly Story from Page Street Kids came out May 12, 2020. Her second picture book Egyptian Lullaby from Roaring Brook Press is due out in 2022. Find out more about Zeena at Teaching Authors – and connect with her at www.zeenamar.comInstagram @zeenamarTwitter @zeenamar1013Facebook zeenamarFacebook Zeena M. Pliska author
47. A Writer’s Dream Bundle: Cool canvas tote/mug with tea/copy of Jumpstart Your Writing in 30 Days by Heather Kelly



Cathy Stenquist won second place in the 2020 Boston Author’s Club Picture Book Discovery Award for her MS “I Wish I Were” and had the chance to work with Peter H. Reynolds, who called her a “Magical wordsmith.” Her debut picture book Forever Home (which began as a 50 Precious Words entry!), is a story about two orphaned kittens searching for a place to be loved. It will be published this spring. Cathy is delighted to have her talented daughter @ericaleighart illustrating it. Cathy is a longtime member of SCBWI, The Writer’s Loft in Sherborn, Mass. and Julie Hedlund’s 12×12 Challenge. You can find her at: Instagram @cathystenquist, Facebook: www.facebook.com/cathy.stenquist and on Twitter: @cathystenquist. Her website: www.cathystenquist.com will be launching soon.
48. A Picture Book Manuscript (non-rhyming) Critique with author Lisa Rogers.



Lisa Rogers is an elementary school librarian and former newspaper reporter and editor. Her picture book, 16 WORDS: WILLIAM CARLOS AND “THE RED WHEELBARROW,” illustrated by Chuck Groenink (Schwartz & Wade Books, 2019), received starred reviews from Kirkus and Publishers Weekly, is a Bank Street Best Children’s Book, a Cooperative Children’s Book Center Choice, a Junior Library Guild selection, an ALSC Notable Books shortlist book, and the winner of the Boston Authors Club Julia Ward Howe award for young readers. HOUND WON’T GO, a rhyming picture book illustrated by Meg Ishihara (Albert Whitman, 2020), was inspired by her rescue dog, Tucker. Her poems are included in FRIENDS AND ANEMONES: OCEAN POEMS FOR CHILDREN (Writers’ Loft Press, 2020). LOOK AT HER ART, coauthored with Jean Wiecha, is forthcoming from Chicago Review Press in 2022.
Lisa lives outside Boston with her family and is a four-time runner of the Boston Marathon. lisarogerswrites.com
49. A Picture Book Manuscript Critique (fiction, nonrhyming) with a Zoom Chat from author Ana Siqueira.


Ana Siqueira is a Spanish-language elementary teacher, an award-winning Brazilian children’s author, and a published author in the Foreign Language educational market. Her forthcoming picture books include BELLA’S RECIPE FOR DISASTER/SUCCESS (Beaming Books, 2021) IF YOUR BABYSITTER IS A BRUJA/ CUANDO TU NIÑERA ES UNA BRUJA (SimonKids,2022), and other books that can’t be announced yet. Ana is represented by Andrea Walker.
Ana is a member of SCBWI, Las Musas Book and co-founder of LatinxPitch
Besides writing, Ana loves to read, teach, and play with her Cuban-Brazilian-American grandchildren.
https://anafiction.com/
https://www.facebook.com/ana.luisduran
https://www.instagram.com/asiqueira1307/
https://twitter.com/SraSiqueira1307
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/20267025.Ana_Siqueira
50. One of Mirka Hokkanen’s amazing HAND-PRINTED ORIGINAL Nature prints from FOUR OTTERS TOBOGGAN: An Animal Counting Story – suitable for framing.
Mirka Hokkanen is a Finnish-American author, illustrator, and printmaker, who creates nature centric art and household goods, with a mission to bring joy to wherever you call home. Her work is often inspired by retro and Scandinavian patterns and colors, made to be timeless and enjoyed by animal lovers everywhere.



Mirka is a versatile illustrator due to her background in fine art. She works comfortably with watercolors, digital and printmaking media. Her love for line and drawing underlies her style no matter which media or style she is working in. Her favorite subjects to illustrate are quirky animal characters.
Website http://www.mirkah.comInstagram http://www.Instagram.com/mirkadrawsTwitter http://www.twitter.com/mirkahokkanen This is a link to the prize: https://www.etsy.com/listing/102550201/butterfly-and-floral-woodcut-original
Dear friends – If you are popping in to visit, I hope you will read and comment on as many stories as you can. This is so important. Writing can be an isolating profession, and especially with Covid, connections are crucial. If you stop by near the end of the contest, why not start reading from the bottom up – so that everyone receives positive feedback and encouragement for their efforts. If you are able to, please share this post on your social media (Facebook is still blocking my WordPress url, but you can share to Twitter and then share that link to FB. And if you are submitting a story, I CAN’T WAIT TO READ YOUR PRECIOUS WORDS.
And here is the linky list in order of how the stories are being posted. It will help you find your own entry so that you can read any comments and respond. It will also help if you want to send someone over to read your story – they can just click on the title in this list and it will take them directly to your story, without having to scroll through hundreds of entries and comments – but please remember that I’m the one creating this linky – it will take me a while to do it and if I’m sleeping or away from my computer when you post, your entry isn’t automatically added to the linky list…I will do it as soon as I am able to. However, if you have trouble posting your story to the comment section or you post it twice – please just reach out via email and I am happy to help: viviankirkfield@gmail.com. And make sure you don’t click the box that says ‘notify me when there are comments’ – unless you want to get thousands of notifications in your email.
- RUMBLY-TUMMY by Paul Kurtz
- CANNONBALL SPLASH by George Neeb
- MY FRIEND by Ha Dinh
- BABY’S BALL by Katrina Tangen
- MOLE-LOVES-VOLE by Donna Kurtz
- A NEW MISSION by Brittany Pomales
- MY SETTING SUN by Amy Leskowski
- LOVE BY THE SEA by Jyothi Nookala
- AN ENTIRE LIFE by David McMullin
- MOVING by Natasha Khan
- PRESCHOOL RULES by Maria D’Alessandro
- A PERFECT FIT by Becky Kimbrough
- A GIANT COLD by Sarah Mohammadi
- THE NIGHT THAT MOMMY LEFT by Erin Rew
- THE BEARD GARDEN by Rachel Scott
- FUZZY WUZZY by Angel Steiert
- HATS by Kirsty
- LEONARD AND ARCHIE by Michelle Ramirez
- THE SEED by Marty Findley
- DANCING AFTER DROUGHT by Sarah K. Rose
- THE UNLIKELY HERO by Priya Kumar
- LAUGHTER IS by Kimberly Lee
- LOVE by Nadine Holland
- THE KINDERGARTEN TRAIN by Christine Marie Alemshah
- CUPCAKE WANTS SPACE PLEASE by Catherine Catcho
- MY HEART-SHAPED CAKE by Deborah Holt Williams
- WHAT’S ON YOUR HEAD? by Sheila Schmotzer
- RAIN by Debra Daugherty
- NO PEAS PLEASE! by Marzieh Abbas
- BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENT by Kathleen Latlip
- FOOD FAIRE by Gennie Gorback
- ROSE THE RED BLOOD CELL by Natalie Morales
- STORY TREES by Catherine Friess
- DAY OFF by Mindy SK
- CATS by Sarah Dollar
- SAYING GOODBYE by Valerie Bates
- MAYOR BOODLER THE SNOLLYGOSTER by Carrie Karnes-Fannin
- MOUSE IS SCARED by Catherine L. Owen
- WAITING IN THE CAR by Constantia Manoli
- POLLY’S PERFECT PICNIC by Sarah McDermott
- THE KEEPER OF THE CLOCK by Stacey Miller
- A SWISH FISH WISH by Kim Hart
- A LITTLE BIT OF CHEESE by Trunky Tree
- ADOPT A WHALE by Markie Hayes
- CHRIS NIKIC, IRONMAN by Summer Cox
- TENDU, TENDU, KICK BALL CHANGE by Ashley Chalmers
- BLAST OFF! by Richard Stonebridge
- A NEW PERSPECTIVE by Brenda Whitehead
- NEVER UNDERESTIMATE THE SPEED OF A SNAIL by Sue Lancaster
- DON’T BITE THE HAT by Megan France
- OPENING NIGHT by Sara Ackerman
- FRIENDS AROUND THE WORLD by Lori D. Housley
- TICKLE TORMENT by Emily Chibwana
- HEART SONG FOR POP-POP by Patricia Nozell
- THE GREAT BALL PIT ESCAPE by Sarah Woods
- CLASS STAR by Sarah Heaton
- MY OLDEST FRIEND by Cassie Hoyt
- ICE CREAM ADVENTURES by Meg King-Sloan
- CAMELS IN THE SNOW by Erin Rounds
- MARGARET UNDERGROUND by Jonathan Pelley
- BEE IN MR. BONNET’S CLASS by Michael Karg
- SHANTY THE SEASICK SHIP’S CAT by Suzie Moone
- FIRE HYDRANT by Krista Legge
- WET PANTS by Jennifer Linville
- NIGHT NINJA by Danielle L. DeFauw
- ICE CREAM ON TOP by A J Grzesiak
- STELLA LOOKED UP by Nicole Loos Miller
- BIRDER by Katy Tanis
- JOY by Ramona Persaud
- THAT HURTS! by Debbie J. Arnn
- THE SECRET PLACE by Andrew Hackett
- MAMA ROO by Lindsey Hobson
- NOT TODAY! by Katherine Scarim
- FOX AND MOLE by Marye Elmlinger
- POODLE PUDDLE by Emma Jenkins
- THE STORY OF SNOW by Amy Olsen
- BUDDHA BABY by Ellie Grey
- MOONSTRUCK by Monique L Waechter
- WHERE DOES MY WILD DOG GO by Juli Caveny
- SPOT THE GNOME by Jaclyn Crawford
- COUNTDOWN TO MARS by Jessica Fries-Gaither
- FRIENDSHIP ROCK by Diane Tulloch
- CAT-DOG RAIN by Shannon Jade
- HE SAID I SAID by Charlie Bown
- FERGUS MCHAIRY: T-REX TOOTH FAIRY by Ashlee Hashman
- ALONE A RAINDROP, TOGETHER A CLOUD by Molly Ippolito
- TALL TIA by Neesa Bally
- MUDBATH AFTERMATH by Allison Strick
- THE ANT PROBLEM PROBLEM by Christina Frigo
- SNIFF by Paulette Sharkey
- THE FIRST GIRL ON MARS by Kristin Mangin
- DREAMER BALLERINA by Keren Dibbens
- ENDANGERED – PERDIDO KEY BEACH MOUSE by Colleen Murphy
- ANCHORLESS by Jodie Parachini
- TINY TOY by Hannah Hudson
- LITTLE RED PUDDLE OF ICE POP by Jin Hee Ahn
- BREATHE LIKE A BREEZE by Rachel Thomas
- AVA AND THE DRAGON by Clara MacCarald
- A SPRING MEMORY by Chris Garcia-Halenar
- GRIFF THE GRUMPY GLUMPHUMP by Dawn Doig
- THE PIRATES’ PLAYGROUND by Kimiko Wadriski
- HIDE, SEEK by Chelsea Tornetto
- NEW BACKPACK by Aimee Satterlee
- ONE TATTOOED DUCK by Jany Campana
- LITTLE SNAIL IN A BIG WORLD by Geri Imler
- ROLLER COASTER by Kelly Conroy
- LEAVES by Lisa Khan
- BIRTHDAY TEA by Amy R. Kohen
- HIDDEN HUG by Kathy Shanahan
- A SNOWFLAKE’S JOURNEY by Leah Moser
- BEDTIME ON THE FARM by Anna Vosburgh
- LAST YEAR by Sarah Meade
- BIRTHDAY BASH by Sherri Jones Rivers
- THE UNFORGETTABLE FATE OF THE FAMOUS FROG by Rich Shea
- PIGEON DANCES by Aileen Stewart
- FIRST DAY by Jacqueline Johnson
- THE GREEDY DOGGY by Jozee Cornfield
- TREASURES by Claire Freeland
- GLOW FACE by Allison Rozo
- GRIPPING AND SLIPPING ALL OVER THE ZOO by Jamie Bills
- MISUNDERSTOOD by Stephanie Rondeau
- SNOWY DAY by Lisa Varchol Perron
- HELPY CAT (OR WHY KARYN GETS SO LITTLE WRITING DONE) by Karyn Curtis
- GOODNIGHT KITE by Jessica Hinricks
- DEPLOYMENT BLUES by Jessica Stremer
- A GOOD FRIEND by Christy LeJeune
- FELIX FLANNIGAN AND CASE 499: THE CASE OF THE HORRIBLE HUBBUB by DJ Christie
- DRAGON’S FIRST HAIRCUT by Carole A. Cole
- FOREST RACE by Martina Palkovicova
- SWITCHED by Stacy Burch
- LE BLEU CHAPEAU: A TRILIGUAL RHYME by Isabel Cruz Rodriguez
- THE CRINKLE CRUMPET PALACE by Laurie Carmody
- FUNERAL FOR A GOLDFISH by Jo Dearden
- PREEMIES PREMIERE by Ellen Seal
- NICKY AND THE NIGHT TERRORS by Mona Woods Voelkel
- A GRILLED CHEESE SANDWICH by Maryann Wohlwend
- SKY HI by Marty Bellis
- WE ARE SISTERS by Kate Rietema
- THE NEW GIRL AT IRISH DANCE by Jessica Whipple
- FRANKIE’S FIERY FART by Dana Marie Miroballi
- BEST FRIEND by Ellie Langford
- BABIES ON STRIKE by Elizabeth Bogart
- BIG BUBBLES by Katie Fischer
- BEAR’S RAINY DAY by Cynthia HM
- NOT QUITE LEFT BEHIND by Claire Smith
- LULLABY OF LIGHT by Hollie Wolverton
- CAROLINE’S DREAM by Erica Sharifzadeh
- MY BABY SQUIRREL by Jeannette Lee
- THE SKIPPING STONES by Kelly Swemba
- ESPERANZA by Randi Lynn Mrvos
- SCHOOL LUNCH by Leah Kelley
- WE’LL WEATHER TOGETHER by Rebecca Gardyn Levington
- PATCH RACED ANYWAY by Kim Peterson
- PETALS OF FRIENDSHIP by Terri Michels
- VISITING THE FLOWER FIELD by Drew Arnold
- WHIRLIGIGS by Les Degnan
- BEDTIME STORIES by Amy M Miller
- SNOW UNICORN by Nina Snyder
- GRANDPA HAD A MISSION by S J Little
- ROBOT VS ROBIN by Heather Morris
- CLOWN FROWN by Monica Freeman
- HONK! by Kelsey Gross
- IMI & URU by Debbie Wanninknof
- SURFING THE GREEN WAVE by Danielle Sharkan
- THE HAIRCUT by Paula K Obering
- MOON SOCKS by Claire Bobrow
- SUMMER NIGHTS, SUMMER LIGHTS by Julianna Helt
- NUMBER CRUNCHING by Kristen Fouts
- UP AND DOWN by Thushanthi Ponweer
- MIAOW SAID COW! by Sue Newton
- I CAN EXPLAIN by Jana Mattern
- TITAN’S BIG PAWS by Meredith Flory
- TROUBLE by Arlene Schenker
- JUST ADD WATER – A LAKE RECIPE by Diane Bradley
- LOVE IS MORE THAN A STRAIGHT LINE by Ashley Bray
- NESTING BY THE SEA by Kate Carroll
- COMFORT by Nicole Sharkey
- HEART-SHAPED GIRL by Anne Lipton
- C SAILED THE SEA by Abby N Wooldridge
- WINNIE THE TWO-WART WITCH by Shelbey Davis
- LIGHTS OUT! by Rebecca Cordey
- BUTTERFLY LIFE CYCLE by Debbie Evelyn
- HUGS FOR TREE by Ambrielle Butler
- CLOUDY VISIONS by Virginia Howard
- LITTLE MAN AND MARGARET by Marcia Dalphin Williams
- NINJAS DON’T DANCE by Jessica Shaw
- ONE RAINDROP by Nancy Ferguson
- THEY BELONG by Tina Mowrey
- GIRLS CAN’T FLY by Carys Brown
- HELLO SNOW by Shannon Howarth Nelson
- THEY ALL FOLLOWED SUIT by Becky Walker
- SANDCASTLE FUN: WELCOME ALL by Melanie Wick Singer
- OUR TREE by Amy Barry
- THE PENGUIN’S ALFRED by Marty Lapointe-Malchik
- PUPPY PLANTS A TREE by Andrea Kiehle Jones
- BELL-WORK by C.E. King
- LATE FOR SCHOOL by Michelle S. Kennedy
- HOOK, LINE, AND SINKER by Melissa Lasher
- FOOT, MEET FOOT by Tom Sebanc
- O – L – D TONA by Isabel Estrada O’Hagin
- DIRT BIKE DANGER by Cedar Pruitt
- WORDS TO CARRY by Patty J Cooper
- LUNARAY by Michele Ziemke
- DRAGONFISH by Robin Brett Wechsler
- SNOWFLAKES ON THE LOOSE by Emrah Guter
- HIDDEN SPROUTS by Janelle Harper
- PUFF AND GROOP by Bonnie Kelso
- WHOOOO KNEW? by Cheryl Johnson
- KATHERINE’S DOG by The Writing Adventure Blog
- FIRE ALARM by M A Cortez
- FAIRY GRUNGE-MOTHER by Searra Simpson
- THE SHOW by Roxanne Troup
- JUST JUNK by Courtney Ryan
- THE MOUSE by Susan E Schipper
- SCHOOL STARTS SOON by Danielle Hammelef
- A MOMENT by Traci Van Wagoner
- MY DOGGY ANGEL by Andrea Gonzalez
- PAJAMA LOVE by Jennifer Wagh
- SORRY, SNOWMAN by Elizabeth Muster
- SUMMER TREATS by Lynn Baldwin
- GORILLA IN THE GARDEN by Jennifer Buchet
- HEART-STONE by Jenny Bowman
- GOING HOME AFTER SCHOOL by Anjali Amit
- TOP BANANA by Sarah Gowayed
- NEW BABY by Elyse Travers
- FUNNY BUNNY by Dawn Young
- TRICK CANDLES by Jef Zitch
- TOT-WIRED! by Kathryn Stowe Powell
- NO FEELINGS TOO BIG by Bri Baranowski
- THE WEENTEAM by Dedra Davis
- SOON by Conie Bergstein Dow
- BLACK, WHITE, OR SHEER by Laksmi Davaloor
- PUPPY LOVE by Eva Kaman
- THIS IS HOW I COPE by Sarah Atherton
- THE GAME by Susan Andrews
- INSECT INSTEAD by Katherin Hunton
- NEW POINT OF VIEW by Alicia Curley
- VACUUM MONSTER by Larissa Elliott
- TEACHERS ARE PEOPLE, TOO by J.E. Seuk
- THE AMAZING SUPER CHICKENS by Jennifer Ann Richter
- LOVE YOU BLUE by Holly Vagley
- JAGUAR TRAINING by Brenna Jeanneret
- THE WIND HAD MY CAUTION by Federico Erebia
- AN ALPHABETICAL TALE by Sara Kruger
- A TACO FOR SAM by Gina Coffin Smith
- HIDDEN TREASURES by Kara Sibilia
- THE HILL by Krista Harrington
- SNEAK ATTACK by Sandhya Acharya
- HUNGRY BUNNY MEETS THE SNOWMAN by Anna Lazowski
- CROUTON CAVEAT by Kalee Gwarjanski
- SLOTH WANTS A MANGO by Aundra Tomlins
- MAKE DO AND MEND MOUSE by Melanie Adkins
- ZOO’S KNEES by Gaynor Andrews
- ARMOR UP by Marie Ryall
- SPRINGTIME WISHES by Buffy Silverman
- THE GLOB by Aline Pusecker Taylor
- THE HUNT by Kaitlin Sikes
- HUNTING by Susan Drew
- ACORN BOWLING by Dena Davis
- MORNING ZOO by Marla Yablon
- ONLY WEEDS by Emily Ramquist
- YAWN TAG by Megan McNamara
- THE PERFECT NEST by Susan Summers
- WITCHWINTER by Katie Frendreis
- OFF A FRACTION by Cathy Stenquist
- THE BIRD by Rose Cappelli
- RACCOON’S DAYTIME ADVENTURE by Cara Krenn
- IDDY by Words On Parade
- CUPS, SAUCERS, SCREENS by Catrine Kyster
- IN MY HEART by Chloe Emilie Ward
- TWO SPROUTS by Victoria Marble
- LATER by McKelle Anderson
- MY GRANDPA IS NOT A PIRATE by Jillian M Barber
- SUN, MOON, AND REVOLUTION by Mary Catherin Amadu
- PURPLE PIRATE by Mary Ellen Marnholtz
- MOONBEAN LULLABY by Sarah Lynn John
- BEAUTIFUL DAY FOR SAILING by Diana Aleksandraova
- BLUE HOUSE, YELLOW HOUSE by Jennifer Conepcion McLennan
- THE OTHER SIDE OF MAD by Jassyel Gomez
- COMMUNITY GARDEN by Armineh Manookian
- A PLACE FOR EVERYTHING: ROBERT MILLS, AMERICA’S FORGOTTEN ARCHITECT by M M Baker
- TO MY DEAR CHILD by Katie Walsh
- FIRST SNOFALL by Mary Rudzinski
- LAYLA BUG by Cindy L. Jeklin
- MESSAGE FROM THE PAST by Glenda Roberson
- TUMBLEWEEDS by Penny Merritt
- RECITAL by Charles Suddeth
- HOW TO MAKE A ROCKET SHIP by Han O’Reilly
- THE NIGHT KNIGHT by Ashley B. Pedigo
- UGLY IS BEAUTY by Diana Z
- SNAIL TRAIL by Megan Ray Durkin
- HI, COO! by STephanie Owen
- SPRING BLUSHES GREEN by Amy Hillman
- HANNAH THE HYPHEN by Freda Lewkowixz
- ONE OCTOBER EVENING by Melody Wang
- SADIE’S REGRETS by Betsy Parkinson
- GRANDMA’S WINDOW by Tara Cerven
- TAKE TURNS by Stephanie Wildman
- WHO’S MAKING THAT SOUND by Karen Rostoker-Gruber
- DOUBLE YOU by Jodie Finney
- ALL ABOARD by Barbara Renner
- SWADDLE AND TUCK, MAMA AND BABY BAT by Lisa Boeglin
- FIRE SEEDS by Carolyn Bennett Fraiser
- ABUELITA’S GARDEN by KT MAE
- SILLY HORSES by Hannah Roy LaGrone
- WARM AND COSY by Mahrukh McDonald
- MOHAMMAD’S PIZZA DREAMS by Laura Osuri
- DANCING DOTTIE by Kristi Newsome
- LET’S GO CLIMB A KITE by Erin Gallagher
- LOST by Samantha Sinclair
- DEEP DOWN, UNDERGROUND: A CAVE STORY by Callie Dean
- A SWEATER FOR PENGUIN by Lori Himmel
- THE LONELY SANDWICH by Kristina Campbell
- AN APPETIZING ARGUMENT by CK Malone
- TOOTH’S DREAM by Sue Sutherland
- SHELL SHOCK by Elayne Crain
- PUPPY CHAOS by Guitar Hanna
- BAD IS BAD by Barbara DiMarco
- FROG STORM by Emily Durant
- LESSONS LEARNED FROM SEEDS by Sandy Brehl
- BIRTH DAYS by Karen Keeling
- PICK YOUR BATTLES by Cathy Lee
- ADVENTURES WITH GRANDMA by Beth Winslow
- SALISH SEA by Natasha Zimmers
- FARMER FRED NEEDS A SCARECROW by Jane Smart
- TO THE MOON by Brittany MacBeth
- SLEEPYTIME SEA by Anita Crawford Clark
- SHERRY THE SHARK by Rachell Abalos
- SMALL WORDS MATTER by Laureanna Raymond-Duvernell
- GAP NEEDS SPACE by Alicia Meyers
- DANDELION MOON by Angela Calabrese
- TOMORROW by Kristen Kiesling
- LAYLAH FINDS AN UNEXPECTED TEAM PLAYER by Tracy D. Carlson
- JUST GET IN THE CAR ALREADY by Felicia Dixon
- HI! COYOTE by Stephen Ehrmann
- THREE LITTLE RHINOS; ONE BIG FIB-IBBLE by Toni Miller
- SPLAT! by Darcee A Freier
- SO READY FOR SUMMER by Laura De La Cruz
- MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE by Aimee Larke
- FUN WITH FOX by Melissa Flinn
- ALPHABETTER by Sarah Hirsch
- TO BE A PEA by Krystia Basil
- ANATOMY OF A FRIENDSHIP by Rozana Rajkumari
- I LIKE ME FOR ME by Jumana OA
- MARY’S TURN TO BRING HOME ROGER by Anna Brooks
- BOLTS by Erik Ammon
- FISH DISH by Jenna Waldman
- ONE LION OR TWO by Adrea Theodore
- A FRIEND FOUND by Melissa-Jane Nguyen
- THE LAST MATCH by Sheri Murphy
- WINTER’S WARDROBE by Judy Cooper
- SEEING A GHOST by Shobha Tharoor Srinivasan
- LET’S HUG AGAIN by Christina McCauley Fernanadez
- FOREVER FRIENDS by Mary Ann Featherston
- TIDAL WAVE by Laura Roettiger
- HANUKKAH! cHRISTMAS! by Marcia Berneger
- CAN ISN’T BETTER THAN CAN’T by Jenni Leinweber
- RAISINS REDEMPTION by Del B Owen
- GOOD-BYE TIME by Yesica Hurd
- BUNNYPILLAR’S BOAT by Justin Teerlinck
- PAPER MACHE by Dazzle T Ng
- LILI AND THE PURPLE DOVE by Carmen Castillo Gilbert
- IF I HAD ONE WISH by Maria Marshall
- HOORAY FOR HANNAH by Donna O’Donnell Figurski
- PERFECTLY IMPERFECT by Janette Springer Willms
- JOE’S WORLD by Sharon Moschopoulou
- THE WANDERING WISH by Katie Grant Watson
- LOST by Laura Howard
- GALAX-SEA by Sarah Hetu
- HOME ALONE by Amanda Perry
- THE TERRIFYING TWO-MONTH TANTRUM: HOW PRESIDENT TRUMP NEARLY DESTROYED OUR DEMOCRACY by Erin Treacy Siska
- A TRAVELING FRIEND by Janet Reece
- THE GREAT PENGUIN RACE by Cristina Rayner
- NO BALL by Becky Stretton
- HUNGRY PUP by Lyn Jekowsky
- I SEE YOU by Erin Gunti
- WORD GAME by Mel Rosenberg
- AYATE IS THE MOON AND STARS by Beth Gallagher
- DIGGER by Jennifer Kennedy
- A RED TALE by Amber Lane
- THAT IS YOU by Sofia Caessa
- THE COLLECTOR by Krtisty Rose Nuttail
- ROSE’S SPECIAL THING by Laura Elizabeth Baukol
- SQUISHY GARDEN by Ranessa Doucet
- LEFT BEHIND by Maria Powell
- SNAIL GOES TO SCHOOL by Katrina Avia Munichiello
- PLAYGROUND BABY by Susan Hughes
- THE EGGMAN COMETH by Lizzie Maxwell
- FREE DELIVERY by Samantha Gassman
- TWO DOGS – ONE MIND by Eva Kaman
- THE SUN DID NOT RISE by C Stone Medina
- A DRAGON GUARDS MY SCHOOL by Abbi Lee
- CHICKEN’S FIRST SNOW by Renee Neubauer
- NO PARTY? SNOW PARTY by Shelley Isaacson
- GRANDMAS by Jo Renfro
- MY (GOOD) GIRL by Erin Lepore
- BRAVE SADIE by Sara Whittles
- COYOTE SAYS SORRY by Maryan Doughty
- WHAT’S A FORT FOR? by Counsel Langley
- FAIRYTALE FISHING BY THE POND: A HAIKU by RL Brown
- DUNG BEETLE BATTLE by Tracy Smith Schmidt
- PLAYGROUND DECISONS: A REVERSO STORY by Joyce Schriebman
- WHERE HAVE ALL THE HUMANS GONE by Delia Black
- PAYING HOMAGE: A STORY TOLD WITH THIRTEEN PICTURE BOOK TITLES by Tamara Girardi
- COUNTING COWS by Bridget Magee
- SO MANY WAYS by Dea Lenihan
- PILLOW KINGDOM by Sheri Dillard
- POP TUNES by Annette L. Murray
- ALPACA NEEDS A FRIEND by Wanda Sobota
- PEARS AND BEARS by Stephanie R. Kotara
- OUT THE WINDOW by Theresa Anacker Wohlers
- PEAS – NO by Nancy Landau
- READ ME A STORY by Marie Prins
- THINGS TO DO ON A SNOWY DAY by B.J. Lee
- COUNTING BACKWARDS by Tannis Curls
- OLD TALE NEW TALE by Brown Sugar Jay
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- A SPROUT STORY by Shay Fan
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- GIFT FOR GIVER: FROM THE TRUE STORY OF GABI MANN by Janie Reinart
- MOM BECKONS by Charlotte Dixon
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- FORT OF DREAMS by Robin Blasberg
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- THE CRITIC by Elizabeth F. Hill
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- A BALLAD OF SPRING by Jillian R. Rockey
- TO SEE OR NOT TO SEE by Samantha Haas
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- MAD AS A HORNET by Aisha J. Esfahani
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- ALFIE SONGS by Phyllis Mignard
- DARYL THE POSSESSED MOUSE by That Burnt Writer
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- BATH TROUBLE by Ingrid Boydston
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- A TWEET BY ANY OTHER NAME by Colleen Dougherty
- TEA TIME by Sue Kralovic
- DRIP by Abraham Schroeder
- BYE BYE, BUG! by Diane Kaye
- LIGHTS OUT DYLAN by Shell LeDrew
- THE ANNOUNCEMENT by Amy Heath
- MOOSE DINES OUT by Patricia Todisc
- PLAYBROUND EARTH by Becky Falkum
- THE LEAP by Jenny Caddy
- THE CHOICE by Rena Epstein
- DREAM GIVER by Ron Anthony
- FIFTY WORDS by Brad Weinberg
- SAFE AND WARM by Rinda Beach
- POSEY GNOME FAR FROM HOME by Laken Slate
- PLAYTIME by Deb Sullivan
- THE SONG OF RATTLESNAKE GRASS by Judith Jango-Cohen
- SUMMER SURPRISE by Kelly Rice Schmitt
- OUR TOGETHER TRAIN by Leslie Goodman
- GARDEN’S DANCE PARTY by Rosalba Ruiz
- WITH YOU by Angelina Phelan
- BALLOON’S DREAM FLIGHT by Grace Donnell
- BUMBERELLA by Marsha Elyn Wright
- COTTONWOOD STARS by Mary Beth Rice
- FIZZ THE FIRELESS DRAGON by Stephanie Fitzpatrick
- ROLLING SPIDER by Melanie Bryce
- TO BE THE WAY MY DOG SEES ME by Ellen Crosby
- IT HAS POCKETS by Kristen Leestma
- THE TOOTHWORM by Migs
- THE GREAT ESCAPE by Dina Towbin
- MY WORDS by Erin Matzen
- GOOFALOTOPUSS by Mia Writes
- GO FIGURE by Rita Russell
- MAC AND CHEESE by Trupti Ramball
- THE CONE CURE by Sara Gentry
- THE FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL by Heather Fisher
- CHOP SUEY SAVES A FRIEND by Kristen Kirwan Browning
- MORNING ROUTINE by Amy Firestone
- YARD SALE DAY! by Savannah Rogers
- THE FLY-BY-NITE FLU by Tovi Glasner
- MAGIC BUBBLES by Lori Kempf Busko
- COCONAUT by Kathy Fork
- A LITTLE SEED by Catherine J. Lee
- GOODNIGHT by Rathi Munukur
- SNAIL MAIL by J L Park
- A CAT AND MOUSE TALE by William Peery
- THE PECULIAR STORY OF THE STRAWBERRY by Michael Burdick
- HALLOWEEN COUNTDOWN by Amelia Shearer
- LIKE A GANNET by Kirsten Ealand
- ODE TO SUMMER by Sylvia Winsby
- THE GIRL WHO CRIED by Melissa Sheperd
- TIGER by Marietta Apollonio
- FINDING ME by Donna Arlynn Frisinger
- TIDES by Katie Munday Williams
- THE FENCE by Evelyn Sanchez-Toledo
- TODAY, I AM A PRINCESS by Robin Currie
- OH THE SOCIALS YOU’LL MEET by Pamela Courney
- THE BEACH WALK by Emily Siwek
- BOOGERS IN A BOX by Lu Pierro
- MISSING by Jo
- THE ADVENTURES OF COW AND RABBIT by Marlena Leach
- TAKE A HIKE by Diane McBee
- HELP SAVE THE WORLD’S TEETH by Jenny Harp
- CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL!!!!

STORIES
by Meredith Adams
(50 words)
Most stories begin with a lie.
Call them anything you like:
Tall tale, myth, fable, legend.
Stories make you question reality
And expand your imagination.
No matter how good the truth sounds,
Everybody wants to stretch it,
Which is why I never quite believe
The things my dragon tells me.
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Love the twist. Very good!
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Thank you, Leah!
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Amazing I want to read more.
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Thank you!
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Dragons…can’t believe a word they say! Ha, love the twist, Meredith!
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Thank you!
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So clever and fun! Good luck.
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Thank you!
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That was a great twist at the end! But who’s really making up stories – the kid or the dragon. Sounds like the start to a really funny PB. Good Luck!
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You pulled us in…and then the twist. Nicely done, Meredith.
“no matter how good the truth sounds, everybody wants to stretch it’ – that should be a bumper sticker or a poster!
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This was a lot of fun! Love the twist at the end! Good luck, Meredith!
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Imagining Treats (50 words)
by Erik Asborn
Wake to the day, imagining treats:
Lava proof pillows. Trampoline sheets.
Bathtub sized boats. Iceberg shaped bubbles.
Shadow furred rabbits dodge crocodile troubles.
Playing card motors on bicycle wheels.
Flipped upside down they are huge fishing reels
Animal clouds on leashes by planes
Sleeping, and dreaming can recharge we brains.
LikeLiked by 4 people
Well that typo is embarrassing. Copy / Paste of the wrong draft.
*Sleeping, and dreaming we recharge our brains
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Still great, even with the typo!
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What a fun, imaginative story! Good luck.
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It’s amazing where our brains can take us when we dream. I liked the ‘lava proof pillows.’ Good Luck.
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No worries about the typo, Erik…we are all only human.
I loved the rhythm and rhyme…and the vivid visuals…animal clouds on leashes by planes…playing card motors on bicycle wheels…lots of fantastical images telling us that every day can be filled with magical opportunities and creativity. Glad you joined in!
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This is great! I love all of the creative pictures you painted. So much fun and I can imagine the cute illustrations! Good luck, Erik!
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IF YOU WANT TO WRITE A STORY
by Tootie Nienow (50 words)
If you want to write a story
that seems absolutely true
and can be whistled
like a tune in your head,
sit in silence.
Listen to crickets,
chase rabbits,
swim with fish,
daydream, observe.
Stories flutter like butterflies.
Catch them with your mind.
Then set them free with
your pen.
LikeLiked by 9 people
Lovely imagery!
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Beautiful – and so true!
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I love the imagery of whistling a story. Beautiful!
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Nice job! Best of luck in the contest.
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Nice list of things one can do to encourage inspiration and fluttering stories. Good luck.
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We should type out this list, Tootie, and put it near our computers to remind us that stories are fluttering like butterflies, waiting for us to capture them with our pens. Glad you shared your precious words.
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Beautiful and so true! I love, stories flutter like butterflies. Catch them with your mind. Nice! Good luck, Tootie!
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Mail Day
Marykate Smith Despres
48 words
It arrived addressed to daughters
full of hope.
But it was torn
open,
empty as a promise
to come home.
“Why?” asked the littlest.
“And who?” the middle glared.
“Listen,” said the oldest.
“There’s a wish and a whisper in here.”
They slipped their reply
into the sea.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Love the emotion and the promise of your story.
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Lovely writing, Marykate! Good luck.
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Haunting & thought provoking. You created interesting images of children awaiting the return of a mother/father out to sea/off to war/research? I’d love to see what happens next. I enjoyed the ‘wish and a whisper in here.” Best of Luck.
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Your writing is filled with emotion, Marykate…I hope you continue this because we all want to know more. I love ‘there’s a wish and a whisper in here’. Thank you for sharing with us.
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This is beautiful! I love empty as a promise, and there’s a wish and a whisper in here. I’d love to find out more. Good luck!
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Fort of Dreams
by Robin Blasberg
49 words
I polish stones
Carve out wood
Build a fort
Where nothing stood
My private lair
My secret den
Just for me
My book and pen
With outstretched arms
Reaching high
Day is done
And night fills sky
From my bedroom
In fading light
Fort of dreams
Keeps burning bright
LikeLiked by 6 people
Beautifully written! Makes me want to sneak away to write and read.
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Nicely done creation of place to create and dream. I really liked ‘Fort of dreams keeps burning bright.’ Good luck.
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Lovely scene you built for us with your fort of dreams, Robin. Sounds like a wonderful place to be writing!
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I love your fort of dreams! What a creative, beautiful place to write! Nice!
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SARA’S SCARED
by Brian Saá (50 words)
Sara’s scared of far away
In the distance, something grey
What it is, she cannot say
It moves towards her, is she prey?
Closer, closer, should she stay?
Standing tall, decides she may
Now exposed by the sun’s ray
It’s a puppy, wants to play
Sara loves it every day
LikeLiked by 4 people
A puppy! What a fun surprise. Nice job.
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Thanks, Jenny! Glad you liked it.
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I love the sweet twist at the end and the mention of the sun’s rays is a wonderfully nice touch
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Thanks, Sara! Great name! 🙂
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I’m glad that her fear turned out to be a playful puppy! Good luck.
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Thank you, Maria! If only all our fears ended up being puppies!
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The worst fear is the fear of the unknown…I’m glad it turned out to be a puppy. And clever use of rhyme all in the same family, Brian.
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Thank you, Vivian! And thanks for setting all of this up – so much fun and creativity from this group!
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Nice rhyme! I love the tension and how Sara decides to stand her ground. What a sweet ending! Cute! Good luck, Brian!
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Thank you, Jill! Good luck to you as well!
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Thank you so much!
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FROG ON A LOG (50 words)
by Vanessa Del Fabbro
I’m tired of this bog, said Frog on a Log,
Who fancies fun in the sun?
You wish, said Fish
Absurd, said Bird
Mistake, said Snake
Frog on a Log hopped out of the bog,
and vanished forevermore.
Till Skink reported a frog who’d turned pink,
down on Jersey Shore.
LikeLiked by 7 people
This made me laugh :o)
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Thanks for your feedback, Catherine!
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Funny!
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Cute! I love your rhymes.
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Funny story of a sunburned frog. Good luck.
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Ha…not sure that turning pink was what Frog had in mind when he hopped out of the bog. Fun use of rhyme throughout, Vanessa.
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Cute story and a lot of fun to read! Poor sunburned frog! I was not expecting that! Good luck, Vanessa!
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What’s for Dinner?
By Sophia Evans
Dad blinked quizzically at Mum.
She questioned, “Fish for dinner?”
Looking at his full hands, Max asked, “Chicken?”
Ethan questioned his parents. “Why is our pet hamster running slower?”
Mum sighed, “He’s lazy.”
Dad noticed Ethan and asked, “Chicken? Fish?”
Ethan enunciated, “Slow… Ham-ster.”
Consequently, they ate hamster for dinner.
LikeLiked by 4 people
Ha! That was a surprise I didn’t see coming. (I’ll bet hamster didn’t, either.)
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Oh my. I’m sort of hoping it’s a pun on Ham stir (fry) and not actually the poor unsuspecting hamster. Good luck.
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Oh dear…I’m sure I don’t want to share that meal. Thanks for joining in the fun, Sophia.
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It’s always a problem trying to decide what to have for dinner! Good luck, Sophia!
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RACE DAY (47 words)
by Jodie Ticer
Two race cars,
Red and blue.
Rev their engines.
Who’ll beat who?
Ready to start,
Three, two, one!
Neck and neck,
A close one.
Blue pulls ahead,
Presses the gas.
Red speeds up,
Just can’t pass.
Boys shake hands.
Today blue won.
Now start planning
Tomorrow’s fun!
LikeLiked by 6 people
Very cute!
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Thank you!
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A fun read, Jodie! Good luck.
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Fun story of two boys playing with cars. Good luck.
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Reminds me of when my kids were in Scouts and they had the pinewood derby racing. Lots of fun and a happy ending. Thanks for joining in the fun, Jodie.
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Adorable fun story! I love that the boys shake hands! Good luck, Jodie!
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Twinsies (39 words)
Beth Charles
Same blue eyes, laugh, and smile.
Same blond hair, wispy-wild.
Visit the library, bounce at the gym.
Snowboard together, just me and him.
We are twinsies in most every way.
Me and my dad, and that’s how we’ll stay.
LikeLiked by 6 people
What a sweet story of a dad/child friendship.
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Thanks!
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Such a lovely story, Beth! I love the surprise ending- well done!
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Love, love, love:) Really nice, Beth!
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Very cute! Good luck, Beth.
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Super cute story of a child/dad special connection. So fun when they’re little – just wish the desire to be “twinsies” lasted forever….. Best of Luck!
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Nice that the kid is so close with the dad…you surprised…I thought it was going to be two brothers or a brother and a sister. I like ‘wispy-wild’. Thanks so much for joining in the fun, Beth.
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This is adorable! I love the unexpected ending and the closeness you showed between the child and the dad. Nice! Good luck, Beth!
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KITE TROUBLE
by Christine Van Zandt (50 words)
The tail of my kite
sails out of sight.
Zing! The string snaps.
Good-bye. Good-bye.
high.
too
just
It’s
Above, squirrels chatter.
Tails whip as they natter
and gnaw the knot
until my kite is uncaught.
It flutters unharmed
into my arms.
My kite soars again!
Thank you, squirrel friends!
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That ending made me smile. Love the squirrel helpers!
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I love this turn of events! Great story.
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Nice job! I especially like the alliterative “natter and gnaw the knot.”
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Fun, unexpected kite rescuers. I really enjoyed the ‘chatter/natter/gnaw.’ Good Luck!
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I love the way you described the kite’s journey and the surprise happy ending! Cute story, Christine!
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I am posting for Joel Chalmers
DOGGONE DANCE BY THE SEA
by Joel Chalmers
Waves lap down upon my hands.
A crab arises from the sand.
Pinchers drawn and eyes on me,
She scurries sideways to the sea.
Max snatches her up with a swoop.
Round they go like a hula-hoop.
The dance complete, he lets her go.
She bows then rides the undertow.
The story is posted on Joel’s blog:
Doggone Dance by the Sea / 50 Precious Words 2021 – Joel Chalmers: https://joelchalmers.com/doggone-dance-by-the-sea-50-precious-words-2021/
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How cute! Good luck, Joel.
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Love “Round they go like a hula-hoop.” Nice. Good luck, Joel.
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Terrific, Joel!
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Nice job! I can picture their hula-hoop dance. I like when he lets her go, “She bows then rides the undertow,” too.
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You’ve created fun images of beach time. I too liked ‘she bows then rides the undertow.” Good Luck!
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You painted a beautiful beach story. I love, round they go like a hula-hoop. I’m glad this adorable story has a happy ending! Good luck, Joel!
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Pingback: #50PreciousWords 2021 – Lexi Donahue
ANIMAL RIDES!
by Ashley Sierra
WC: 50
Papa! Papa! Let’s go play!
Animal rides! Hip, hip, hooray!
Bump, bump, bumpity-bump!
Ride a camel’s hump.
Clack, clack, clackity-clack!
On a horse’s back.
Spin, spin, spinnity-spin!
Now a dolphin’s fin.
Papa’s tired, I can tell.
Let’s go slow . . . on a turtle’s shell!
Wheeeeeeeeeee!
So much fun, riding Papa’s knee!
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Really great rhythm, Ashley! Such a fun read. The ending made me laugh! Good luck – Rosanna
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Thanks for reading Rosanna!
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This would make an adorable board book! I can just picture giving the rides after (or while!) reading the book. So fun!
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Thanks for reading Beth! We used to sit of my dad’s knee and he would pretend like it was a horse 🙂.
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You captured the ecstasy of a toddler perfectly, Ashley. Love the onomatopoeia! Fabulous!
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Thanks Jill!
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Love the imagination and action in this, Ashley! Kids will love the bouncing fun and
rhymes.
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Thanks Shannon!
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So delightful and bouncy, Ashley!
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Thanks for all your help and support 🙂.
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I love it! A fun twist at the end and very relatable, too.
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Thank you for reading Jenny! I’m glad you enjoyed it 😊.
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I love this!
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Thank you Claire for reading!
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Love the twist at the end. There’s nothing quite like bouncing on dad’s (or grandpa’s) knees! Great job job capturing the joy, even when going slow, of a toddler playing with an adult. I could see this as a board book. Best of Luck.
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Thanks Maria for reading!
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This is adorable! My grandfather always bounced us on his knee. I love the fun, bouncy pace and the slow down at the end. I could picture cute illustrations for this! Nice! Good luck, Ashley!
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Thank you Jill! My dad would sit us on his knee and pretend it was a horse 😊.
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What a neat memory! That makes your story extra special!
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THE MOON FOLLOWS ME HOME
by Lexi Donahue (50 words)
Before sunset.
The moon was out.
I peddled.
The moon followed
When I hugged the tree
The moon stopped too.
Up the hill
Slow and steady
The moon cheered
At the top
I looked down
The moon by my side.
Then the moon followed me home
And wished me goodnight.
See my post on my blog at: http://lexidonahue.com/50preciouswords-2021
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I enjoyed reading this. Lovely observation of the moon.
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When I was a kid we lived far from anywhere and long drives home through the prairie were common. I loved that the moon always followed along. Very evocative, beautiful imagery. Thank you for sharing and good luck!
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So sweet, Lexi! Thanks for sharing. Good luck.
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Sweet story of a ‘friendship’ with the moon. It does seem to follow along sometimes. Good luck.
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I love this! As a child I always loved the way the moon would follow us home. Beautiful imagery! Good luck, Lexi!
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THE CROWNING OF THE KING
By Lois Thompson Bartholomew
Deborah clung to the stallion’s mane, ducking arrows from the usurper’s army. All night she guided the racing animal with her mind. At sunrise, they thundered across the drawbridge. Sliding down, Deborah dashed forward and placed the enchanted circlet on Grandfather’s head. Once more the true king reigned.
The End
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This is so vivid! Love it.
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So beautifully written and how clever giving us the ending. You’re the best.
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Nice job, Deborah! I like “ducking arrows from the usurper’s army.” Good luck.
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Nice job getting a fantasy story into 50 words. Fun words ‘usurper’s army’ and ‘enchanted circlet.’ Good luck.
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This is beautiful! Full of great action that moves the story forward! Wonderful job getting a full story down! Nice! Good luck, Lois!
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Bobby and Robot (50 words)
Ruth Solitario
Bobby carries Robot everywhere.
Robot loves Bobby.
Bobby loves Robot.
Bobby and Robot are inseparable.
But one day…
“Today, I’ll go alone,” said Bobby.
Teddy sat on a chair.
Bobby ran outside to play.
He felt awesome!
“Sometimes, playing alone is great, until you miss your friend,” Bobby said.
Read my post: https://everythinghappyhome.com/vivian-kirkfields-50-precious-words-is-up-and-running/
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Bobby sat on a chair.
Ooopsie!
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So sorry! It’s supposed to be:
Robot sat on a chair.
Allow me to submit the correction, Ms. Kirkfield! My excitement is to blame! Thank you very much!
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No worries, Ruth. I think everyone who read the story knew that it was Robot sitting in the chair when Bobby went for a solo playtime outside. I’m glad Bobby took a chance and found his courage to go outside alone.
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Thanks Vivian! 🙂 I appreciate your comment!
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very relateable
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Thank you, Maria! 🙂
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So cute! I’m glad Bobby came back for Robot.
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Thanks Jenny! That’s what friends are for! 🙂
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Sometimes it is good to do things by ourselves. Glad Bobby has a good friend when he’s ready to play. Good luck.
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Thanks, Maria, I appreciate your comment! 🙂
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This is so cute! A great story about taking that first step and going it alone! I’m glad he finds out it feels awesome! Good luck, Ruth!
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Thanks Jill! I appreciate your comment! 🙂
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BILBY AND BULLDOZER (#50PRECIOUSWORDS)
Bilby kicked Bulldozer with his toe.
He flicked dirt and dust all over dozer.
Then Bilby scurried up the seat and bit it on the bottom.
‘Ouch!’ Bulldozer cried. ‘What was that for?’
‘You’re blocking my burrow,’ Bilby squealed.
Bulldozer moved back.
‘Move further back,’ shouted Bilby. ‘Further!’
Splash!
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I enjoyed reading this Maria :o)
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Funny! Oops for Bulldozer!!
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Such a cute story with an unexpected ending. Good Luck
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Haha! Cute! Good luck in the contest.
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Ha! Great personality & gumption in that little Bilby. Poor bulldozer, but funny! Good Luck!
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This is so cute! Poor Bulldozer. I guess it wasn’t his day! Good luck, Maria!
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I found you, Vivian. Thanks for this opportunity!
Twilight
50 words
Corine Timmer
Twilight
Rosie tucked Sweet Chestnut in her pocket
and skipped home.
Twilight glowed.
Chestnut sighed
and imagined
what it was like
to be little.
To be cupped by a warm hand
while carried to a new place.
To be the centrepiece
on a bedside table
surrounded by lullabies
and dreams.
Rootless.
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lovely flow
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So sweet!
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Thanks 🙏
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Thanks for stopping by. Glad you like it.
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Aw! So cute!
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Sweet story from the Chestnut’s POV. Good luck.
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Thanks for reading and commenting.
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This is beautiful! I love, surrounded by lullabies and dreams. Rootless! Nice! Good luck, Corine!
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Thanks 🙏
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THE BEST OF US
By Martin Wodehouse (WC 50)
I want to be a doctor
I want to be an astronaut
I want to be president
Well my precious angels
If you are kind
If you are brave
If you serve others in need
You will have everything that you want
And know what it means to be human
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A beautiful message!
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This is a fabulous, humanitarian piece. Love it, and I can so see this as a kids’ book. 🙂
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Very nice! Good luck.
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An important message in a wonderful free verse poem. Good luck .
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I love this, Martin! Beautiful and powerful message! Good luck!
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