PBParty 16: WILLARD'S JOURNEY

Title: WILLARD’S JOURNEY

Genre: Nonfiction PB

Word Count: 520

Query:

Dear Agent,

 Willard’s throat is tight. His skin is dry. Willard needs water. When his toad family accidentally leaves him behind to go in search of a pond, Willard must overcome his fear and head to the pond—in the dark—all by himself.

On his journey, he encounters a ferruginous pygmy owl, a coati, and a boa constrictor—all who want to eat him. Alone and scared, he hops on until he reaches his destination. Sinking into mud in the cool pond, Willard croaks a happy song and reunites with his family.

Willard’s Journey is a 520 word nonfiction picture book, based in the jungle that addresses the childhood fear of being scared of the dark. The story also introduces children to some interesting jungle animals with cool fact sidebars and the concept that a person can accomplish anything they work hard enough for—even if they’re afraid.

The author is the owner and director of a large childcare center in Grand Junction, Colorado. As a prekindergarten teacher, she regularly addresses the fears that children encounter and teaches them the only way to overcome fears is to face them head on. She is an active member of SCBWI, RMFW, and belongs to several critique groups.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

First 50 Words:

WILLARD’S JOURNEY

 The Toad family panted. (At least 10 toads, all ranging in age and size)

No clouds. No rain. No water.

 Willard scratched dry skin off his back.

Father Toad rose. “Tonight, we leave for the pond.”

Willard swallowed hard. “But it’s dark at night.”

“It’s too hot to travel during the day,” Father Toad said. “And without water, we’ll die.”  sidebar