PBParty #25: MY SHAPE IS SAM, Gender Nonconformity, Fiction

Title: My Shape is Sam

Genre: Fiction

Word Count: 480

Query:

Dear agents, 

I am submitting my picture book, My Shape is Sam, in hopes its humor, heart and distinct voice match what you’re looking for.

Sam is a square who longs for softer corners, rounder edges and the ability to roll like a circle. But everyone knows that squares don’t roll, they thump. At least that’s what everyone thought until the day Sam took a tumble and discovered something wonderful.

With playful imagery and a gentle touch, at 480 words My Shape is Sam looks at gender nonconformity through the eyes of Sam, a square whose outside shape doesn't match his inside shape. With this story I hope to acknowledge and affirm the identities of those who can relate to Sam, and spark conversation about our many and varied shapes. 

I'm a member of SCBWI, as well as a member of two SCBWI connected critique groups. I have a bachelor's degree in Human Development and 10+ years' experience working with children, in and out of the classroom. I have several more polished picture book manuscripts, ready upon request. 

Thank you for your time and consideration.

First 50 Words:

Sam had four even sides. Four pointy corners. And like all other squares, he was a builder. He lived in a place where everyone had a job, depending on their shape.

Circles were smooth and round. Good at rolling, spinning, and pushing. They all turned together to make things go.