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
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- 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!!!!

The Song of Rattlesnake Grass by Judith Jango-Cohen
Rattlesnake Grass drooped.
“Why sssssooooo gloomy?”
whispered Wind.
“I’m so blah!
Pussy Willow’s fuzzy.
Harebell’s fancy.
Fairy Slipper’s
Magical!”
“Isssss that sssssooooo?”
sighed Wind.
WHOOSH!
Wind swirled
around Grass.
Her rattles clattered.
Soft as a purr,
shimmery as chimes,
enchanting as pixie spells—
Clickety-clap!
Tinkle-tap!
Ting-tong!
Grass heard
her
song.
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“Grass heard her song.” Recognizing one’s worth is a lovely theme for this precious story that enchants the senses right to the end. Well done, Judith! Good luck in the contest!
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I love this! Great message and use of words. I love how you reflect the other grasses in the sounds of rattlesnake grass in the wind. Beautiful!
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Thank you! So kind of you.
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Thanks, Marty! It was fun! Wasn’t it?
As I said, yours would be a wonderful picture book. Where did you find the story?
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Judith, you have your own magical way with words. This lovely, lyrical poem sings all of nature’s songs. I love how you’ve given both Wind and Grass their own voices. I could see this in a collection of nature poems. Truly beautiful!
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Thanks for your kind support, Joannie. I have photos too, which would be fun.
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I don’t think I’ve heard of Rattlesnake Grass. It sounds enchanting!
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It’s a beautiful grass. The little brown seed heads look like the ends of a rattlesnake tail. Thanks, Ingrid!
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What a lovely read – terrific use of similes and sounds.
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Thank you! You used some nice alliteration. 🙂
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This is lovely!
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Thanks so much, Corine! Glad you liked it. Did you post a story? If so, what number are you in the links?
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You had me at: Grass heard her song.
So much beautiful imagery…lyrical…great visuals…lovely use of language. And a wonderful message for children. Well done, Judith!
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Thank you so much, Vivian. And thank you for hosting this event! Reading the stories and comments from this supportive and kind community is uplifting. We are helping each other to hear our songs. 🙂
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Grass heard her song! You have a beautiful way with words! I love this story and its message. Nice!
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Dear Jill,
Thank you for your uplifting note, Jill. I appreciate it! Did you post a story? If so, which number are you on the links list?
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You are so welcome, Judith. I did post a story. I’m #660.
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Oh, good! I’ll have a look.
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Great job with RG & wind’s voices! A lyrical look comparing yourself to others. As well as educational – I looked it up – what amazing grass! I especially liked – ‘Soft as a purr, shimmery as chimes, enchanting as pixie spells’ – such enchanting descriptions. And that ending! Best of Luck!
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SUMMER SURPRISE by Kelly Rice Schmitt
Sweaty, stuffy.
Bordem.
Sighs.
Ding-dong.
Package—a surprise!
Bubbles, bubbles!
Huff puff blow—
One two three four…
Off they go.
Hurry, catch them—
Run! Squat! Hop!
Poke them, pierce them.
Pop! Pop! Pop!
Sticky liquid, laughter sweet.
Scratchy grass on soft bare feet.
Bursting bubbles disappear.
Wiggles,
giggles,
summer’s here!
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What a fun, cute story!
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Kelly, your story is fun to read and filled with wonder and joy. I love your rhythm and rhyme. The images you create bring back sweet memories. Children would love this.
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Wow! I really like this! I had to read it out loud just for fun!
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Love the rhyme…and love the imagery. ‘Sticky liquid, laughter sweet, scratchy grass on soft bare feet’
You put us right in the scene in a lyrical way…well done, Kelly!
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Idyllic, Kelly! Hope we can enjoy days like that this summer.
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Love all the summer imagery! Love the scratchy grass on soft bare feet! Cute story and so much fun to read!
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You have a bouncy rhythm that makes it makes it fun to read. I like your sighs/surprise rhyme! nothing like a bunch of bubbles to break up the boredom. Good Luck.
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OUR TOGETHER TRAIN
by Leslie Goodman
“Let’s build a fine train!”
I said to my friend.
We made one from boxes
we tied end to end.
Soon, more friends came over.
with no place to sit…
Our train was too small—
too small of a fit!
With more boxes and glue
We made room for you.
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So cute! Love the positive message 🙂
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Thank you. I’m glad you liked my little story.
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What a sweet story!
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Thank you so much. 🙂
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What a wonderfully sweet story, Leslie! I love it!
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Awwww…. thanks, Jill! I’m happy you liked it.
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Wonderful, Leslie! A sweet, moving story.
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Thank you, David. I enjoyed reading your entry, too! You managed to get your story posted early. Quite impressive! 🙂
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Gotta love being made room for!
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It seems small, but having someone make room for us makes us feel wanted and appreciated, and that’s a big thing. 🙂
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Boxes have always been underrated, as you clearly demonstrate!
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When my daughter turned one, she had more fun exploring the box than the sweet rocking horse we unpacked. 🙂 Yes, boxes are truly underrated.
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What a great concept, Leslie. I love the message of creativity (boxes were our FAVORITE play material and we were astronauts, sailors, school-teachers…my kids loved the boxes more than the gift sometimes)…and also the message of making room for one more.
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Cute, creative, and a wonderful message. Boxes are the best!
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Leslie, such a sweet story, with a gentle lulling rhythm. I love that boxes allow for the train’s expansion (over & over) to accommodate friends. Best of Luck!
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Garden’s dance party
By Rosalba Ruíz
43 words
Autumn is Garden’s favorite season
There’s a party every time Wind comes
Grass sways from side to side
Roses bend forward and back
Leaves twirl up and down
Under the sun, under the stars
Autumn is Garden’s favorite season
Unless spring also counts
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That’s precious! I don’t think I’ve ever read about a garden being personified!
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A lovely ode to autumn, Rosalba. And I love all the action…grass sways, roses bend, leaves twirl – I think you almost don’t need to say the other words (from side to side, forward and back, up and down) unless this is a story to teach kids those concepts. Without those words, it’s even more lyrical. Nicely done!
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Autumn is my favorite season! This is beautiful!
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Pretty and lyrical. I like it being garden’s POV. I agree with Vivian about cutting the directions (side to side/up & down), because sway, bend, & twirl already give the reader the images. Good luck.
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With You
By Angelina Phelan
39 words
With you
Right by me
I can chase a butterfly
Soaring high
Stroking swirlies on the sky
Back to me
With you
Bracing me
I can climb a mountain top
Leap and hop
On a rainbow lollipop
Licking me
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Love it!
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Good tone and imagery. What would happen if you added a stanza in the middle? I like ending it with lollipop. Just some thoughts.
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Butterflies and rainbow lollipops! Fun images!
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I want to SEE these illustrations! Fun!
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Great action and imagery…love the rainbow lollipop. I agree with macsheperd – not sure what ‘licking me’ is doing at the end of your story. Who is the child with? A parent? Her own imagination? God?
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Love the imagery! Good luck, Angelina!
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Interesting images. I’m also not sure about ‘licking me’ at the end. Good luck.
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BALLOON’S DREAM FLIGHT
by Grace Donnell
(50 words)
Michelle’s balloon escaped her hand–
to ride the wind above the land.
It dreamed of soaring through the air
among the clouds without a care–
floating, gliding on the breeze
exploring sites beyond the trees.
But as it drifted out of sight,
a bird flew up and took a bite!
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Good turn at the end. I laughed…before my coffee.
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Ha love it! Especially your ending.
Pop seems to be a bit of a theme this year! 🙂
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Well done! I lauged out loud!
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Loved the lyrical adventure you took us on, Grace. And the ending made me smile! Nicely done!
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This is so cute! Poor balloon! Loved the ending!
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Cute! I feel sorry Balloon’s dream got cut short. Hope the bird just poked it and wasn’t injured. Good luck.
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Bumberbrella
By Marsha Elyn Wright
50 words
Rat-tat-a-tat. Rain taps the window.
My rubber boots buckle up. Snap. Snap.
My squeaky slicker slides on. Errreech.
I grab Bumberella.
Whoosh. It rides topsy-turvy in rain rivers.
Clickity-clackity. It collapses closed, rapping wet fences.
Soaked in raindrops, we slosh home.
“You’re drenched!”
“Bumberella did it, Mama.” Drip. Drip. Drip.
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This is fun to read out loud!
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Thank you, Ingrid. I had fun with sliding my own slicker on and off, trying to catch the sound it makes on my skin. LOL
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Thanks for sharing a fun day in the rain, Marshal. I love ‘ it rides topsy-turvy in rain rivers’ and your title is so engaging.
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Thank you, Vivian! I remember too well how I’d find ways to play in the rain with my own “Bumberella,” never using it right-side up as intended. Mom couldn’t figure out how I got so wet.
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A fun and adorable story! Love all the rainy day sounds!
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What great sounds and images! I love the child’s obvious joy in playing with its umbrella, rather than ‘using’ it. Good Luck!
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COTTONWOOD STARS
by Mary Beth Rice
48 words
Sitting under Gram’s tree.
Heart aching in the thick summer air.
Sun sinking, Moon rising—meeting face to face.
Gathering twigs, I snap them in two,
releasing the hidden Cottonwood stars to the sky.
Looking up, one twinkles at me—meeting heart to heart.
A hug from Gram.
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Simply beautiful!
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Very heartfelt, Mary…Gram will be much missed. But I’m so glad your mc found a way to connect with Gram’s spirit. I love Sun and Moon meeting face to face…and she and Gram meeting heart to heart.
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This is so beautiful! Love the looking up, one twinkles at me–meeting heart to heart. Nice!
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Such a tender story. I love the symmetry of the sun-moon “face to face” and MC & Gram “heart to heart.” Best of Luck!
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FIZZ THE FIRELESS DRAGON (50 words)
by Stephanie Fitzpatrick (@stephanie_skiba)
In a family of red,
one was blue.
Puffing fiery breath,
little dragons play.
Sizzle!
Crackle!
Pop!
ROAR!
Sadly, nearby,
tears flow.
Drip…
Dribble…
Splash!
Flaming games
blaze out of control.
Trembling tails.
Shivering scales.
Gulp… Glug… GUSH!
Water rushes.
Fire fizzles.
No matter the game,
Now all can play.
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I love this concept! Good job!
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Love the message in this adorable story! Nice!
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So, Blue breathes out water instead of fire? How perfect when there is a conflagration. I’m glad he saved the day and now he gets to play. Nice message, Stephanie.
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I also assume Blue is a water dragon? Good thing he is and can save everyone else and have an accepted role.
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Rolling Spider (50 words)
Melanie Bryce
Tightening laces
to a wiggling stance
Shimming forward
to a slipping dance
Braking quick
then falling slow
Hanging branches
mean ducking low
Mending cuts,
icing bumps
Getting up,
nailing jumps
Finding balance
and drying tears
Whooshing fast
from shaking fears
Moving steady
and feeling swell
Rolling spider
is skating well
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Such a cute idea. I love “slipping dance.” So true! It’s fun to envision an ice skating spider!
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There’s some very fun imagery here!
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Adorable spider story! Great imagery! Good luck, Melanie!
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Love all the action going on here, Melanie. But I wondered, was it a spider ice skating…or a kid who is learning? From the other comments, it sounded like they thought it was a spider…but I wasn’t sure.
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Beautiful images of skating outdoors. Spider or kid? Do spiders cry? This is a fun story of persistence. Good Luck!
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TO BE THE WAY MY DOG SEES ME
To be the way my dog sees me…
Loyal,
Friendly,
Trustworthy,
Playful,
Huggable,
Loving fearlessly.
Through the tough times
And the good times.
Always there,
Always near,
Always sharing our lives.
On walks
And talks,
Through hills
And valleys,
Over yonder
And close to home.
A constant companion.
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This needs to be on a poster at the very least! Love it!
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Thank you, Ingrid! Dogs just seem to love us, warts and all!
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Beautiful! You’ve captured the heart and soul of these loving fur babies!
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Thank you, Jill! There is a reason why they are called “man’s best friend”.
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Ah…yes…if only we could be the person our dog believes us to be. I love your ending line: A constant companion. Thank you for sharing your precious words, Ellen.
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We are always so amazing in their eyes. Delightful ending line! Good luck.
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IT HAS POCKETS
41 Words
By Kirsten Leestma
“I like your dress!”
“It has pockets!”
“What for?”
“Treasure.”
A smooth stone.
A fancy feather.
A poky pinecone.
“Room for more?”
“Plenty.”
“Let’s go!”
A large leaf.
A tiny tulip.
A copper coin.
“How about now?”
“Oh no! A hole!”
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I love this.
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Thank you!
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Love all the alliteration in your lovely ode to pockets. 🙂
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Thank you, Carrie!
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A dress with pockets IS a treasure, and your story is adorable!
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Thank you!
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I love this! It brought back a lot of memories for me. My mother sewed all of my dresses. Most of them had huge pockets where I could stash my treasures. Cute ending!
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Aw, thank you!
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I totally like to buy clothing that has pockets! I love the items you mention that would be treasures for any child’s pocket. And then the twist at the end! Lots of fun, Kirsten.
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Thank you, Vivian! And thank you for your dedication to this contest!
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It’s miserable to explore without pockets! Perfect choice of “kid” treasures. And the ending. . . so sad! Good Luck.
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My daughter always filled her pockets! I love the reminder. Well done! 💛
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The Toothworm (47 Words)
by Migs
A bright shiny apple
A big toothy bite
Jana felt happy
But… something’s not right
She first felt a wriggle
Under her gums
The Toothworm giggled
Jana was dumb!
She never flossed
So the Toothworm latched on
A bit better brushing
And her teeth wouldn’t be gone…
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That’s a cautionary tale for all of us! Poor Jana!
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A toothworm! What a cute idea! Good luck, Migs!
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If this story doesn’t convince kids to brush, nothing will! lol!
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Oh dear…brush and floss, everyone!!!! I love the title, Migs. Thanks for sharing your precious words with us.
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The toothworm is quite an ingenious idea. Good luck.
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THE GREAT ESCAPE
Dina Towbin (41 words)
One ran out the door,
Another jumped the gate, made haste,
Together, their hair akilter,
They followed the string wrapped ‘round the trees,
The path was long, the light uncertain,
They escaped the witches’ claws,
And to their grandma’s warm embrace.
Also posted on http://www.creatividadplus.com.
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I love grandma embraces!
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Thanks Limakat!
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Love the action and suspense! Great ending! There is nothing like Grandma’s warm embrace! Good luck!
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Thank you!
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Spooky! It feels like there’s more to this fun story!
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I’m so glad they got away to safety. I loved: The path was long, the light uncertain. That’s really lyrical. Thanks for joining in the fun, Dina!
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Glad they escaped and made it back to Grandma. Good luck.
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Pingback: TIME FOR THE #50PRECIOUSWORDS KIDLIT CONTEST – Creatividad Plus
My Words
By: Erin Matzen
Chickens
don’t care how you sound.
Not when you stutter or
Read aloud.
Horses listen
Ears perked in interest.
They strengthen
My words.
Stories emerge
Hidden talents
Only they know.
Here I speak freely
Without hesitation
Nothing to tangle
My words.
Content.
They listen and
I am heard.
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I love this! Beautiful story and so true!
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Thank you! Growing up around horses and other animals, I’ve always talked to them. Animals are great listeners. 😉
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I just read “I Talk Like a River” by Jordan Scott and Sdney Smith. You captured the same emotion in 50 words. Beautiful!
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Thank you! That’s a high compliment. I’ve heard it’s a beautiful book. You just placed it at the top of my reading list!
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This is a beautiful story from the POV of someone who stutters. I love “Here I speak freely
Without hesitation
Nothing to tangle
My words.”
Well done, Erin. It feels like it could be a nonfiction pb about someone.
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Thank you, Vivian! I’ve been working on a story and this was a great exercise to try and find the essence of it. It’s made me rethink other stories on the shelf. I will definitely join in the fun again next year. Thanks for hosting!
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Touching story. The last two stanzas are amazing. Here . . . I am heard. Great POV & voice. I agree w/ Ingrid & Vivian this should be a PB. Best of Luck!
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Thank you, Maria! I appreciate the boost of confidence! 💛 I’m always amazed by this community’s support for one another to keep trying.
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GOOFALOTOPUSS
by Mia Writes
50 Words
Silly Goofalotopuss!
Chasing bugs,
Big eyes, slitted pupils.
Tail flicks, she pounces.
Buzz, off it flies.
Running circles till dizzy,
Tap-dancing across tile,
Distracted by flickering sunlight,
Climbing curtains,
Jumping on cabinets,
twirling on the ceiling fan. Whee!
Snap! Yum!
Curled on my lap,
My crazy kitty catches some zzz’s.
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Also posted on https://calledtobeawriter.wordpress.com/2021/03/07/50-precious-words/
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Silly Goofalotopuss! I love this! Pure cat bliss! Cute story, Mia!
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Thanks, Jill! It was fun to write.
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I get the feeling this is a true story! lol!
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It may be a little “stretched” from the truth of when my cat was younger — let’s just say I never caught her swinging from the ceiling fans, but all the other stuff, yes 😜. She’s old and diabetic now, so she doesn’t get up to her youthful antics anymore, but she does make her presence known by almost constant meowing 🙄
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It sounds like your kitty keeps you entertained. Thanks for entertaining us with her antics. I loved: tap-dancing across tile, Mia.
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Thanks! She definitely used to! She’s old and diabetic now, so she’s not as frisky as she used to be. I appreciate your encouragement, Vivian. This was a fun and challenging exercise 😅 with Goofalotopuss whittled down from a 200 word story I’d been working on.
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There is rarely a dull moment, if you have a cat in the house. Good luck.
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True! Thanks! Good luck to you too.
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GO FIGURE!
By Rita Russell
(50 words)
Jump off the school bus
ready to race
counterclockwise
wide open space.
Crowding the doorway
ready to spin,
swizzle, and hop –
“Please, let us in!”
“Sold out,” clerk claims –
quick to lie.
Fancy footwork,
pale faces glide by.
Back on the bus,
broken hearts grieve.
Rejected crossovers –
Black kids
leave.
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This is such an emotional, heart touching story, Rita. My heart broke right along with the kids. Nice!
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Thanks, so much, Jill. I’m glad you empathized with the kids’ feelings. Unfortunately, many Black children learn all too early what it means to be othered.
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You’re welcome, Rita. I hope you publish this story one day. It’s got an important message for everyone. Thank you for sharing it!
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Oh! This made me so sad! I didn’t see it coming. Well done.
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Thanks for your warm comment, Ingrid. Racism is often a shock because we don’t see it coming.
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You’ve written a powerful story about a sensitive topic, Rita. And I think you captured our attention and our hearts. Are you working on a nonfiction pb bio about this?
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Thanks, Vivian, for your annual challenge to write a meaningful story with so few words. This particular piece was inspired by an incident that happened to me and my classmates during a school field trip years ago. Decades later, the emotions of that day still resonate with me. I’m glad my words moved you.
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Rita, great job drawing us into the kids’ excitement and anticipation and their devastating heartbreak. I second the thought about making this a PB! Best of Luck.
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Mac and cheese
by Trupti Ramball
Word count: 49
Dunked in gooey goodness
As warm as it can be
Some like it with Gruyere
Others with Parmesan and Brie
It isn’t chunky like as Lewis and James’
Or creamy as Mila and Jane’s
Packed with cheddar and chicken bits,
It’s my delicious mac n’ cheese
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This made my mouth water! I love all the different descriptions. Yummy story! Good luck, Trupti!
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Thank you Jill!
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Everyone who reads this will be having mac and cheese asap! Yummy story!
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Thank you Ingrid!
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And I think I need to have some mac and cheese RIGHT NOW! I love ‘dunked in gooey goodness’…you put us right there in the scene, Trupti.
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So glad you liked it! Thank you for organizing this. This is going to be my first of many 50 Word Challenges. And I’ve never read so many amazing #50PreciousWords in succession. Truly awesome!
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Yummy. Now I’m hungry. What a great opening line “dunked in gooey goodness.” Good luck.
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Thank you, Vivian, for running another round of #50PreciousWords – it’s always such fun!
The Cone Cure
by Sara Gentry
My sister finished the good cereal.
The dog really did eat my homework.
My teacher made me do it again.
Mom was late picking me up from school.
I wanted hamburgers for dinner. Dad said, “No.”
Now my family is out for ice cream.
It’s been a pretty good day.
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Love it! Way to look on the bright side. Cookies and cream does have a way of curing all ills. 🙂
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This is so cute! Ice cream makes everything better! Good luck, Sara
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Glad to see all’s well that ends well!
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Your protagonist is definitely an optimist, Sara…like Pollyanna, she sees the glad in everything. And after that day, she definitely deserves ice cream! Thanks for always supporting my endeavors, Sara! So glad you joined in the fun.
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Cute. Ice cream has a way of fixing almost anything. Good luck.
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Ice-cream can fix everything. Love this. Good luck Sara.
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