events

3-2-1 Happy New PB!

1/15/2022

Happy 2022, fellow #kidlit writers! It’s a new year with new possibilities and new writing GIVEAWAYS! The debut picture book authors and illustrators of PB22Peekaboo would like to welcome you to…

This ONE-time picture book contest is open to all picture book writers and writer- illustrators who have at least TWO picture book manuscripts either ready for submission or a thorough critique. We've got THREE great agents participating!

3 DAYS TO ENTER
2 PITCHES.
1 CHANCE TO WIN A PRIZE!

WHEN DOES THE FUN BEGIN?

Writers will have three days to submit the Google Form between 8AM EST on January 21st and 8PM EST on January 23rd. The link for the entry form will be found on this blog in addition to the PB22Peekaboo Twitter account. Be sure to follow the account: @PB22Peekaboo!

WHAT DO I NEED TO DO?

Submit a Google Form on this blog between 8AM EST January 21st – 8AM January 23rd.
Follow a bunch of fabulous kidlit people on Twitter. (Listed in the column to the right.)
Spread the word and tag @PB22Peekaboo on Twitter, Instagram, and other social media!

That’s it!

On the Google form, you will be asked to submit the following:

Contact details & manuscript(s) details (fiction, NF, rhyming, prose, word count, etc.)
Two polished pitches of only 30 words each
Two comp titles for each pitch (not included in the 30-word pitches)
Preference for critique or slush-pile-pass prize

We ask that you read each agent’s MSWL to see which is the right fit for your work. These can be found in the ‘2022 Prize Participants’ section below. You will be asked to rank the agents on the Google Form based on your top choices. If your work doesn’t match with these particular agents, please select the “critique” prize as your top choice instead of the “slush pass” prize to save the submission opportunity for those who DO match. Thank you!

In addition to the form, all entrants must follow the list of authors, agents, and editors on Twitter. WHY? Because this industry can be tough and supporting each other is one way to show our gratitude and togetherness!

Winners will be announced throughout the day on Friday, January 28th on Twitter, the PB22Peekaboo Facebook group, and the PB22Peekaboo blog (right here!).

WHAT COULD I WIN?

Winners will be randomly selected based on the number of prizes offered. Participating agents will receive the winners' pitches. You will be notified if an agent or editor has requested to see the manuscript from a particular pitch.

You could win a SLUSH PILE PASS with one of these Literary Agents:

Lisa Amstutz (Storm Literary Agency)

Lisa 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.

From 2011–2020, Lisa served on the board of SCBWI: Ohio North in various roles, including Assistant Regional Advisor. She also volunteered as a judge at Rate Your Story and was one of the founders of the annual NF Fest challenge. Now, she looks forward to helping clients achieve success as an agent.

Lisa is seeking nonfiction for all ages (preschool–adult), picture book and middle grade fiction, and picture book author/illustrators. She loves books with heart; science, agricultural, and environmental topics; new insights on history, culture, or the arts; strong characters and settings; humor; lyrical texts; and multicultural themes. She enjoys a good rhyming story, but please be sure the meter is strong and consistent. She is not a good fit for dark or dystopian themes or graphic content.

James McGowan (BookEnds Literary Agency)

James McGowan is a Literary Agent and Children's Author. He has been with BookEnds, in some capacity, since the summer of 2015. He started as an intern, and as the joke goes: they couldn't get rid of him. James is a Staten Island native, and holds a Master’s Degree in English from the College of Staten Island. He’s been a reader since his first Scholastic book order. His debut picture book, GOOD NIGHT, OPPY, launched in Fall 2021 from Astra Books for Young Readers.

James represents illustrated projects in board books, picture books, and middle grade. His list features authors, illustrators, and author-illustrators. He also is seeking adult nonfiction and select adult fiction. To find out more about how to submit to James and what he's looking for, please visit the Submit to James page. You can query him on Query Manager. Follow him on Twitter or Instagram.

In board books and picture books, James’ tastes run the gamut. He appreciates a good laugh and is always looking for a novel idea or fun spin on a familiar concept. (In board books, a fresh concept is crucial.) He loves heartwarming fiction, and books at the intersection of humor and warmth. James has a soft spot for nonfiction and is interested in historical or STEAM topics. James is always looking to add more illustrators to his list, especially those who have ambitions to write. He gravitates towards bright color palettes, witty and expressive characters, and creators who can tell a story in a single image.

Kaitlyn Leann Sanchez (Context Literary Agency)

Kaitlyn Leann Sanchez is a mom, wife, agent with Context Literary Agency, middle school math teacher, and picture book author. She's also the proud co-creator and co-host of the Spring Fling Kidlit Contest and Kidlit Zombie Week as well as creator and co-host of the Kidlit Fall Writing Frenzy Contest. In her free time, she loves to play soccer, binge-watch TV shows, and, of course, read, especially when she's all cozied up with her husband and daughter reading together.

When it comes to stories she’s looking for, Kaitlyn is incredibly eclectic and pretty dichotomous. On one side, she really connects with emotional writing and, on the other, very funny stories. But both, both, is THE BEST! (Creators who can do this are magicians, in Kaitlyn’s eyes!) In all categories, she’s always looking for diversity in all forms, including but not limited to BIPOC, neurodiversity, and LGBTQ+.

For picture books, Kaitlyn enjoys representing author-only and author-illustrators as well. For style, she likes them all: character-driven, concept, and any creative new format ideas you might have! She connects with poignant, lyrical writing (rhyme and non-rhyme) just as much as laugh out loud funny, and of course, the best are those magical books that mix humor and heart. She also enjoys nonfiction STEAM books and super interesting picture book biographies especially ones about underrepresented people.

OR... You could win a PB critique from:

Leanne Lim (editor)

Ethicool’s editor Leanne Lim is offering a manuscript assessment for one text-only picture book MS of any style.

Ethicool is a children’s book publisher and retailer headquartered in Australia with worldwide distribution. The team focuses on children’s books about the world’s big issues, inspiring kids to create positive change. Ethicool’s books are printed using recycled or sustainably-sourced papers, as well as soy-based inks, and is a proud member of 1% for the Planet.
Follow Ethicool on Instagram! @ethicoolbooks

Jackie Kruzie (editor / author)

PB22Peekaboo member Jackie Hartman Kruzie is offering a manuscript critique for a text-only picture book of any style.

Jackie is an acquisitions editor for Blue Whale Press, an imprint of Clear Fork Publishing focusing on children’s books. Her own STEM picture book, MIXED-UP MENAGERIE, is set to debut with Blue Whale Press in Spring 2022.

MIXED-UP MENAGERIE: When Zoologist Zoe gives her very first zoo tour things do not go according to plan. she encounters confused creatures at every exhibit. Zoe helps her new animal friends recognize their similarities and celebrate their differences in this rib-tickling tale of mistaken identity.

Jen Lynn Bailey (author)

PB22Peekaboo member Jen Lynn Bailey is offering a manuscript critique for a fiction picture book of rhyme or prose.

Jen’s own STEM picture book, THIS IS THE BOAT THAT BEN BUILT, is set to debut with Pajama Press in March 2022.
THIS IS THE BOAT THAT BEN BUILT: The classic “This is the house that Jack built” formula is adapted in a humorous exploration of a northern river ecosystem. Young Ben sets out to explore the river equipped with a sturdy boat, some sample-collection gear, and his scientific curiosity. Along the way he meets a black bear taking a swim, a moose all wobbly and slim, a goose with a gorgeous grin, and a heron all proper and prim…but things really start happening after the owl HOOs loudly on a whim.

Stacy Burch (author)

PB22Peekaboo member Stacy Burch is offering a manuscript critique for a fiction picture book of rhyme or prose.

Stacy’s own SEL picture book, A WAY WITH WORDS, is set to debut with Ethicool Publishing in April 2022.
A WAY WITH WORDS: Little Sam chooses to store her words rather than speak, but when she tries different ways to communicate, no one understands. Learning how actions are often louder than words, Sam sets out to show – once and for all – that every child deserves to be heard.

Matt Forrest Esenwine (author)

PB22Peekaboo member Matt Forrest Esenwine is offering a manuscript critique for a fiction or nonfiction picture book of rhyme – OR – a critique of up to three individual poems.

Matt has TWO picture books coming out in 2022! His first, I AM TODAY, is set to debut with POW! Kids Books in January 2022, and his second, A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO BEING HUMAN, is set to debut with Beaming Books in October 2022.

I AM TODAY: Children are always being told they are "the Future""...but what if a child doesn't want to wait, to make a difference?

A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO BEING HUMAN: The reader is introduced to many of the emotions and feelings we experience as humans. Written with a straightforward yet humorous approach, the lives of different children are chronicled as they navigate this thing we call "humanity."

Andi Kate (author)

PB22Peekaboo member Andi Kate is offering a manuscript critique for a fiction or nonfiction picture book of any style.

Andi’s own rhyming picture book, DRUM! DRUM!, is set to debut with Familius in Fall 2022.

DRUM! DRUM!: An energetic young girl moves to a musical beat, and as she continues to find ways to fulfill her passion, her community catches her enthusiasm and helps her on her way. Filled with captivating cadence, DRUM! DRUM! will keep you thrumming with the beat long after reading.

Bonnie Kelso (author/illustrator)

PB22Peekaboo member Bonnie Kelso is offering a manuscript, dummy critique or website portfolio critique.

Bonnie was the winner of the SCBWI 2021 Karen Cushman Award for her chapter book work-in-progress, “Johnny Bell Baker and the Coal Mine.”

Bonnie’s own humorous informational fiction picture book, NUDI GILL, is set to debut with Gnome Road Publishing in September 2022.

NUDI GILL: Gill, the nudibranch, is fancy, flashy, and fierce! Stuffed into one peanut-sized package is a sassy powerhouse of a sea slug who educates a visiting snorkeler about his fascinating species.

Krista Schwarzer Legge (author)

PB22Peekaboo member Krista Schwarzer Legge is offering a manuscript critique for a fiction or nonfiction picture book of any style.

Krista’s own picture book, THE STRINGS MAKE MUSIC, is set to debut with Sage’s Tower Publishing in Spring 2022.

THE STRINGS MAKE MUSIC: The String Family creates music, but there is one that doesn’t fit in. Viola desperately wants to be an artist, but her family does not approve. She devises a plan to show how she can still be a part of the family while doing what she loves. This is a story about family, self-discovery and acceptance.

Katie Otey (author)

PB22Peekaboo member Katie Otey is offering a manuscript critique for a fiction or nonfiction picture book of any style PLUS a 20-minute Zoom consultation.

Katie’s own heartfelt picture book, EVERY OTHER CHRISTMAS, is set to debut with Sky Pony Press in Fall 2022.

EVERY OTHER CHRISTMAS: After his parents’ divorce, a bi-racial child spends every other Christmas celebrating the differing traditions between his African-American and Colombian sides of his family.

Lisa Frenkel Riddiough (author)

PB22Peekaboo member Lisa Frenkel Riddiough is offering a manuscript critique for a fiction picture book or rhyme or prose.

Lisa’s own picture book, LETTERS TO LIVE BY: AN ALPHABET BOOK WITH INTENTION, debuted with Running Press Kids on January 11, 2022.

LETTERS TO LIVE BY: AN ALPHABET BOOK WITH INTENTION: Appreciate art, become brave, and choose compassion. Pairing big ideas like generosity, respect, and joy with the letters of the alphabet, Letters to Live By is a beautiful picture book that encourages children to make the most of each day and leave their mark on the world.

Cindy Williams Schrauben (author)

PB22Peekaboo member Cindy Williams Schrauben is offering a manuscript critique for a fiction picture book of rhyme or prose PLUS a 15-minute Zoom consultation.

Cindy’s own rhyming picture book, THIS COULD BE YOU: BE BRAVE, BE TRUE, BELIEVE, BE YOU, is set to debut with Cardinal Rule Press in April 2022.

THIS COULD BE YOU: BE BRAVE, BE TRUE, BELIEVE, BE YOU: Will you be an Astronaut? A Farmer? An Artist? A Nurse? No matter where your dreams take you, your own unique flair will get you there. Keep believing, it could be you.

Candace Spizzirri (author)

PB22Peekaboo member Candace Spizzirri is offering a manuscript critique for a fiction or nonfiction picture book of rhyme or prose.

Candace has TWO picture books coming out in 2022! Her first, FISHING WITH GRANDPA AND SKYE, is set to debut with Clear Fork Publishing in April 2022 with our fellow PB22Peekaboo member, Beverly Love Warren, as illustrator. Her second picture book, FINLEY: A MOOSE ON THE CABOOSE, is set to debut with Gnome Road Publishing in Fall 2022.

FISHING WITH GRANDPA SKYE: Days on the lake are a Skye and Grandpa thing. They load up their tackle boxes, pop aboard their skiff, and chug out to their favorite fishing spot. Today, the sun is shining, the fish are jumping, but will Skye be patient enough to hook a big one? FISHING WITH GRANDPA AND SKYE explores the rewards of patience and celebrates love between generations.

FINLEY: A MOOSE ON THE CABOOSE: Finley, the friendliest moose in town wants nothing more than to hop a train and ride the rails. But Conductor Jones knows the rules...no moose allowed! Finely tries costumes and concealments, but sneaking aboard proves harder than he thought. When a sudden disaster stops the train in its tracks, Finley shows everyone he's a useful moose to have on the caboose...and maybe SOME rules should be changed.

Roxanne Troup (author)

PB22Peekaboo member Roxanne Troup is offering a manuscript critique for a fiction or nonfiction picture book of any style.

Roxanne’s own picture book, MY GRANDPA, MY TREE, AND ME, is set to debut with Yeehoo Press in Fall 2022.

MY GRANDPA, MY TREE, AND ME: Pecans are North America's only indigenous tree nut, and one of the United States’ oldest export commodities. But how are these crops grown and harvested? Using lyrical language and a repeated refrain, MY GRANDPA, MY TREE, AND ME follows a young child’s relationship with his grandfather through the seasons of caring for and harvesting pecans both in a commercial pecan orchard and their own backyard before finally tasting the reward of their labor.

Jennifer Wagh (author)

PB22Peekaboo member Jennifer Wagh is offering a manuscript critique for a fiction or nonfiction picture book of any style PLUS a 15-minute Zoom consultation.

Jennifer’s own humorous picture book, EGGASAURUS, is set to debut with Simon & Schuster in April 2022.
EGGASAURUS: In this funny and winsome picture book a young boy orders a dinosaur egg and ends up with more than he- or his dad- bargained for!

Jocelyn Watkinson (author)

PB22Peekaboo member Jocelyn Watkinson is offering a manuscript critique for a fiction picture book of rhyme.
Jocelyn’s own humorous picture book, THE THREE CANADIAN PIGS: A HOCKEY STORY, is set to debut with Sleeping Bear Press in August 2022.

THE THREE CANADIAN PIGS: A HOCKEY STORY: In order to save their bacon, THE THREE CANADIAN PIGS face off against The Big Bad Wolf and his big bad team in a dramatic hockey game. In true Canadian fashion, after the pigs trouce their foes, they patch up their differences with a delicious Canadian meal and (wary) friendship.

Kaitlyn Wells (author)

PB22Peekaboo member Kaitlyn Wells is offering a manuscript critique for a fiction or nonfiction picture book of prose.

Kaitlyn’s own heartfelt picture book, A FAMILY LOOKS LIKE LOVE, is set to debut with Penguin Random House in May 2022.

A FAMILY LOOKS LIKE LOVE: A heartening picture book about a young pup who looks different from her siblings and ultimately learns that love, rather than how you look, is what makes a family.

Jennifer Wolf Kam (author)

PB22Peekaboo member Jennifer Wolf Kam is offering a manuscript critique for a fiction picture book of prose – OR – a query critique.

Jennifer’s own lyrical picture book, UNTIL THE BLUEBERRIES GROW, is set to debut with PJ Publishing / PJ Library in May 2022.

UNTIL THE BLUEBERRIES GROW: Ben tries to convince his great-grandfather to stay in his house a bit longer as they celebrate a yearly cycle of Jewish holidays together.

Want more info?

Have burning questions or an overwhelming sense of excitement you wish to share with others? Tweet us at @PB22Peekaboo!

More events coming soon!

3-2-1... WINNERS!

3-2-1 Happy New PB!

3 DAYS TO ENTER
2 PITCHES.
1 CHANCE TO WIN A PRIZE!

WHEN DOES THE FUN BEGIN?

WHAT DO I NEED TO DO?

That’s it!

WHAT COULD I WIN?

You could win a SLUSH PILE PASS with one of these Literary Agents:

OR... You could win a PB critique from:

Want more info?

The entry window has closed.
Winners will be announced on Friday, January 28th.

Follow:

More events coming soon!

3-2-1... WINNERS!

3-2-1 Happy New PB!

3 DAYS TO ENTER 2 PITCHES.1 CHANCE TO WIN A PRIZE!

WHEN DOES THE FUN BEGIN?

WHAT DO I NEED TO DO?

That’s it!

WHAT COULD I WIN?

You could win a SLUSH PILE PASS with one of these Literary Agents:

OR... You could win a PB critique from:

Want more info?

The entry window has closed. Winners will be announced on Friday, January 28th.

Follow:

3 DAYS TO ENTER
2 PITCHES.
1 CHANCE TO WIN A PRIZE!

The entry window has closed.
Winners will be announced on Friday, January 28th.