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April 23, 2021

2021 PB Party

Writing Contest

The CHALLENGE

Submit the first 60-70 words of a picture book manuscript, along with an engaging and professional query letter.

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The LOWDOWN:

Record number of author and author-illustrators who joined the PB Party this year. Over 1,000 entries! An AMAZING  vision of writing host Mindy Alyse Weiss

 

I knew I wanted to write a picture book biography on a historical woman who has personally influenced my life in a profound way. When I say blood, sweat and tears went into the thought process of writing and presenting her life story, trust me it certainly did.

 

The VICTORY

My picture book manuscript “Modern Martha: The Story of Martha Graham” listed as one of the titles worthy of mention on this year’s 2021 PBParty’s list of entries that came close to the finals. 

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Martha Graham- Lamentations

Courtesy Library of Congress

Martha Graham...

From her early influences as a little girl to becoming the mother of modern dance, Martha Graham broke the rules of ballet.

                     She created a new form of dance.

                                                      She made waves.

                                                                 She was undeniable.

 

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Modern Martha:

The Story of Martha Graham

by Sheila Schmotzer

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Dark brown hair tossed high on her head…

Dancing around the piano as her father played…

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Little Martha grew up in Pennsylvania.

Her father, George Graham, was a doctor.

Martha watched him help people, using body motion.

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Moving with her family to southern California, the ocean waves, mysterious flowers, and Asian culture motivated her.

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Martha Graham was born to be modern.

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Airplane Pilot Portrait

MINI BLOGS

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