2022 PBParty Annual Contest

Q: Can I enter a PB that's part of a series?

If this is the first PB in a series...YES. Just know that the picture book must stand alone...many editors like to wait and see how the first book does before considering a series. If you have published or self-published other books in a series and this is part of it...then sadly, the answer is no. You'd need to choose a different manuscript to enter.

Q: Will any PBParty information be on Facebook?

YES! We have a Facebook group for participants of PBParty events and hope you'll join us. There will also be some PBParty info on my Facebook page .

January 5, 2022 Posted by Mindy Alyse Weiss PBParty 115 Comments

It’s PBParty’s 8^th year! The PBParty Dream Team of Judges and I can’t wait to read your submissions and celebrate your successes.

The annual PBParty contest is for unagented writers and author/illustrators with finished and polished picture book manuscripts. You submit an entry (query and first 60 – 70 words) and we pick a wide variety of genres for the agents/editors to read and hopefully request. This is not a twitter pitch event!

We’re using Google forms again. There will be two different submission windows on March 1, 2022 EST to make it easier for people around the world to send in their entry.

Submit one contest entry on Tuesday, March 1st from midnight to 1 am EST OR 5 pm – 7 pm EST via a Google form link I’ll share in February. (The form will ONLY be open during the two submission windows.)

We’ll pick our 30 (ish) favorite entries plus art for the Illustration Showcase.

Agents and editors read the selected entries on my website and make requests Monday, March 21 – Friday, March 25.

IMPORTANT: Here’s what you’ll need to fill out the Google form.

Here’s a link to the WRITER form which will not allow any attachments (remember it will NOT let you view the forms until the two PBParty submission windows)

Here’s a link to the AUTHOR/ILLUSTRATOR form

Here’s the list of 2022 agents and editors! There’s 42 today. Wahoooo! I’m pretty sure it will grow. I’ll add new names and shout out on Twitter when it does. 🙂 UPDATE: We have 57 now!

From March 1 through the end of the month, we’ll have a party on Twitter to celebrate our love of writing and picture books with daily topics like: share your favorite picture book or where do you get your writing inspiration. It’s fun and makes the wait a little easier. Everyone is welcome to join the Twitter party fun…even if they don’t enter the contest.

Additional info:

Please subscribe to this blog by entering your e-mail in the upper right so you won’t miss important PBParty information…like the participating agents and editors, contest tips, the list of finalists–and an awesome surprise I can’t wait to share with you soon. 🙂

The judges and I will tweet tips and teasers on Twitter—so I hope you’ll follow us! I’ll also tweet the party question each morning at 9 am EST. Don’t forget to add #PBParty to your responses, so everyone will see them.

Mindy Alyse Weiss * Matt Tesoriero * Gabriele Davis * Lori Degman * Sylvia Chen * Jenna Waldman * Aixa Perez-Prado

A huge thank you to 2021 PBParty Judge & Designer, author/illustrator Melissa Escobar, for creating the PBParty contest logo, invitations, discussion cards, etc. I LOVE them!

*If a manuscript or illustration has been featured in the PBParty agent/editor round or another contest where agents and editors have viewed it (other than a Twitter pitch party) it can’t be entered again, but you may enter a different manuscript.

*The manuscript you submit to PBParty MUST BE AT LEAST 200 WORDS. Finalists will have up to 70 words of their sample online–this would be too much in public with a shorter manuscript. We’re doing this to protect you!

Illustrations:

Author/illustrators should attach two full color, finished illustrations to the Google form as JPEG or PNG files – no more than 1MB each. They should be from the same manuscript and must be illustrated by the author. They also need to visually be the same size, so they’ll look great together in the final showcase. We love artwork and can’t wait to see yours!

NEW THIS YEAR: The illustrations should NOT contain words. If there’s a welcome or other short sign, that is fine, but the actual text from the manuscript can’t be in there.

Illustration Showcase:

After choosing the finalists, we’ll select our favorite illustrations for the Illustration Showcase. This has been a huge hit since we added it to the contest a few years ago.

The titles in the final round and Illustration Showcase will be listed on my blog on March 17, 2022.

There’s a helpful FAQ below so this post doesn’t turn into a novel. Please read this entire post and the FAQs carefully. If you still have questions, leave them in the comments or on Twitter. Don’t forget the #PBParty hashtag.

I’m still happy dancing for all the Success Stories…and can’t wait to share even more with you soon. Many of the stories contain a query that worked…which will help you prepare for the PBParty contest (plus agent & editor queries). Here’s an awesome post of PBParty cheers from agents and finalists. If you’re an unagented PB writer or author/illustrator…we hope you’ll enter.

We can’t wait to see all the heartwarming cuteness on March 1! Once you read this giant post all the way to the end, please comment with your favorite writing snack. Then pretend I sent it to help you get your entry ready. Good luck!

FAQ

Enter your question:

Things you’ll need for the Google form

Here’s what you’ll need for the 2025 PBParty Contest

The Google form will only be open during the submission window on February 3—but you can create a file with everything you’ll need, then copy and paste it into the form. Now is the time to check every word, share with critique partners, and make sure it’s ready to dazzle.

*You can’t edit once you submit, and you can’t send a revised entry.

* If you can’t send it yourself, you can share your responses and have someone send it in for you.

NOTE: Google will strip most formatting. For italics, put an asterisk before and after the part you want in italics.

~TITLE (Please Capitalize the First Letter of Each Word)

~SAMPLE First 60 – 70 words of a picture book

*Do NOT enter a PB if the full manuscript is less than 200 words! You don’t want that much of your work online, even for a few days.

*Don’t stop in the middle of a… ^_(sentence)

*Art notes count toward your 60 – 70 words!!!

*Repeat: Art notes count toward your 60 – 70 words.

Try to limit art notes as much as possible…but make sure people who haven’t read the manuscript before still understand it if you take notes out.

Please format notes like this [awesome art note]. Don’t say Art note or Illustration…we’ll know it’s a note because of the brackets. This will make it quicker to read (for the hard-working PBParty judges and the amazing agents and editors reading the showcased entries). Plus, all finalists will use the same method. 🙂

Don’t paginate, indent, or share spreads. Only include text and necessary art notes.

~QUERY The most important part of your query is the blurb! Don’t give away the ending–make us want to dive into your manuscript because it sounds so amazing. Hint: it’s helpful to look at queries that worked (like in PBParty Success Stories) and pitches that grabbed a lot of attention in events like #PBPitch.

Include your comps, bio, greeting, closing. Be sure to note lived experiences that make you the perfect person to write the story in the query as well (if it applies). You may use whatever you want for a greeting—but please don’t write it to a specific agent or editor.

The query MUST be a complete query. If it’s a single line pitch with no bio, a bio with no pitch blurb, etc. it will disqualify you. Sadly, this has happened in the past and we don’t want it to happen to you!

Here’s your chance to make your entry shine so agents and editors fall in love with your words.

Do not include personal information like your name, address, e-mail, etc. If you include links in your bio, we will assume those can be made public.

In the past, people have been disqualified for putting large chunks of their manuscript in the query or packing in way too much info to try to make up for the short sample. If a query looks unprofessional, it will knock out an entry…even if we love the sample itself. (We don’t like having to disqualify a sample we love–so please don’t do this.)

~WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO WRITE THIS STORY–and what do you have in common with the story or main character? (We share this in the final entries–some people forget to show an emotional connection to a manuscript in a query and we want to make sure your connection shines). This can be up to 100 words.

~GENRE Please include ONLY 1 – 3 genres for your manuscript! If you’re not sure what genre maybe one of these will help: diverse, humor, character driven, metafiction, concept, STEM/STEAM, rhyming, lyrical, fantasy, bedtime, historical fiction, informational fiction, holiday, contemporary, SEL (social & emotional learning). *If your manuscript rhymes (or is mostly rhyme) then you MUST include rhyme in your genres.

If it’s non-fiction, what type of non-fiction (biography, narrative, etc.)

*Up to 3 genres will be listed along with the title and word count on the finalist page…so please make the best choices!

~WE’D LOVE TO KNOW MORE ABOUT YOU. Check any boxes that apply. You’re welcome to tell us a bit more in the “other” area. 🙂

[ ] BIPOC

[ ] Traditionally underrepresented voice in publishing

[ ] Traditionally published

[ ] Previously agented

[ ] Past PBParty Finalist

[ ] Past PBParty Honorable Mention

[ ] Other __________________________

~WORD COUNT (for the entire manuscript–NOT including the title, art notes, or back matter)

*IMPORTANT! The judge voting spreadsheet is coded so any word count under 200 words will immediately be disqualified. Make sure the manuscript you’re entering is at least 200 words (this is to protect YOU). Use the total for the full manuscript, not the sample. If the manuscript is 198 or 199 words, you may round up to 200. 🙂

~NAME (Full name please)

~E-MAIL (Please triple check that you have the correct e-mail…in case we need to get in contact with you. Plus, I e-mail finalists their PBParty finalist badge, banner & an invite to join our private and supportive Facebook group)

~TWITTER/BLUESKY AND/OR INSTAGRAM HANDLE (if you have one)

Sometimes, people make a mistake with their e-mail…and this gives us another way to contact you.

~SHARE A 1 – 3 SENTENCE PITCH for up to 3 of your strongest, polished PBs–NOT including the picture book you’re entering. (This is only to help us with final spots and won’t be shared online) This is optional, but we hope you’ll do it. It could mean the difference between being a finalist or honorable mention.

~SHARE THE FULL PICTURE BOOK MANUSCRIPT (This was optional in the past, but now we require it because it is a HUGE help figuring out who deserves to be in the showcase). This will NOT be featured online or shared with the agents/editors. It will only be read if the judges are highly considering your entry for the showcase and need to see a bit more before making a final decision. It will also help make sure rhyming manuscripts are spot on and 100% ready to dazzle. This should be text from your manuscript, not back matter.

~DO YOU WANT YOUR QUERY, SAMPLE, OR BOTH DELETED AFTER THE CONTEST…if you’re in the final showcase?

There will not be a confirmation e-mail. Once you click “Submit” you’ll see a confirmation message. Take a photo of it, if you’d like proof of your entry. 🙂

For author/illustrators

*You’ll have the same Google form as the writers, but you’ll have the ability to attach 2 illustrations.

*We now require a link to your portfolio and a password protected dummy or one that can’t be accessed without the link (just to help judges with the final decisions). Please make sure the judges have access to your dummy! We spend tons of time reading entries and it slows us down if each of us needs to request access.

Format for illustrations: Title 1 your initials Title 2 your initials

Don’t mention including a dummy in your query…agents and editors won’t have access to it in the finals. You can mention that you have a dummy available though.

Good luck! We can’t wait to read your entries. 🙂

How long should my excerpt be?

Please share between 60 and 70 words in your excerpt. Make sure your sample doesn’t cut off mid-sentence. Entries over 70 words will be disqualified.

*If you post less than 60 words, it might be hard to judge the quality of the manuscript. Please do your best to share at least 55 words with us.

Remember that art notes are included in your total word count!

Do art notes count toward the 60-70 words?

YES!!!

I have submissions out with agents or editors, can I enter?

Yes! Please let us know if you receive an offer. This has happened before—we celebrated the great news and made room in the final round for a couple more dazzling entries.

*TIP: There’s a smaller chance of getting requests in the finals if several of the agents/editors have already seen your PBParty manuscript. Please enter something else if yours has been submitted to many participants.

*If you’re a finalist and don’t withdraw before the showcase starts, you MUST allow requesting agents & editors two weeks from the end of the showcase to respond if you receive an offer. We had several agents upset that during the showcase they requested entries and were told they had a week or less to make a decision because that person received an offer. We don’t want them to get frustrated and stop participating. (Note: you don’t need to submit to anyone who doesn’t seem like a good fit…but if you do submit, they need at least two weeks to decide from the original end of the showcase)

I used to have an agent, but now I don’t, can I enter?

Yes!

But if you have an agent who is still shopping a manuscript or an agent currently representing a single book that hasn’t sold, you can’t enter out of respect for the participating agents. We wish you tons of luck selling your manuscript!!!

Can co-writers or author/illustrator teams enter the PBParty contest?

We’re sorry, but this contest is not for co-writers or author/illustrator teams. If you have a picture book you’ve written by yourself, you may enter it. If you’re in the finals and receive interest, that would be the perfect time to let agents and editors know you also have additional work with a co-writer or as part of an author/illustrator team.

This works best for the majority of participating agents, and we want to keep them happy so they’ll return year after year.

No

We will only accept one entry per person, pen name, or giant octopus squid. If we receive more than one, all entries by that person will be disqualified.

Will any PBParty information be on Facebook?

YES! We have a Facebook group for participants of PBParty events and hope you’ll join us.

There will also be some PBParty info on my Facebook page.

What greeting do I use in my query?

Whatever you want! You can have fun with it or leave it out and jump into your query—but please don’t address it to a specific agent or editor.

Should I include a closing?

You can include thanks, but no need to put your name, address, personal info. Those will be stripped out if posted to the showcase. If you want to include links to your illustrations or other identifying info in your query bio, that is up to you. We’ll assume you want us to leave any info in your bio.

Do I have to include comps?

It’s not mandatory to include comps, but it’s a great way to show agents and editors that you know where your manuscript belongs in the market.

Will being in ANY contest disqualify this manuscript from PBParty?

There are cases where you can still submit a contest entry for PBParty (yay)!

You can enter a manuscript into PBParty if…

It was in a contest that doesn’t have your manuscript in print or online and doesn’t have more than a couple agents and editors in the final round. Examples include SCBWI contests, Writers Digest, etc.
A small portion of the manuscript was online in a contest without agents and editors (the themed ones with short word counts come to mind). Sometimes these contests spark an idea that morphs into a full picture book. If it’s a lot different than what was posted online and you believe it’s one of your strongest manuscripts…go for it!
It was entered in a contest with an editor/agent showcase but didn’t make it to the final round.

We have this rule for a few reasons.

We want agents and editors to see fresh material in the final round. It helps finalists have a better chance at receiving requests and makes it appealing for agents and editors to participate.
If a large portion of your picture book was posted online, it could be considered published. That’s why we have a low word count and require the full manuscript to be at least 200 words.

I don’t see the email address for the contest.

We use a Google form. It’s a great way to ensure everyone is able to enter and know it’s been received.

If you have questions, please leave them in the comment section or ask me on Twitter or the PBParty Facebook group.

Do I have to submit to everyone who requests my picture book or illustrations?

It’s great that they’re interested in your work…but if research makes you believe it isn’t a good fit, you’re not obligated to send to any agent/editor.

Can I get feedback on my entry?

We’re sorry, but we take a lot of time away from our own writing to run this contest and aren’t able to critique anything. But…during the #PBParty fun on Twitter and BlueSky, you can post that you’re looking for critique partners or a group and find some great matches! You’re also able to request critique swaps in the PBParty Participant Facebook group.

I also run the monthly PBParty New Draft Challenge & Critique Train where everyone is motivated to write a PB during the three days it runs each month and then hop on the Critique Train where the person above critiques you and you give feedback to the person below. Click here for the FAQ.

I made a mistake—can I edit my entry or send it again?

No. Any duplicate entries will disqualify you. Please send the correct info the first time. Check and double check your entry.

I didn’t get a confirmation email.

That’s okay…Google forms will thank you for submitting to PBParty after you hit send, so we have your entry and can’t wait to read it.

Will my name and social media handle be up for everyone to see?

No. If selected, we won’t include your name or social media handles. That info is only for us. Note: We don’t add you to newsletters or share your info with anyone.

***If you’re a finalist…you’re welcome to shout out which entry is yours.

What’s the hashtag again?

#PBParty

When do I post my pitch?

You don’t. This isn’t an online Twitter pitch event. PBParty requires a query and your first 60 – 70 words. Entries are sent to us by Google form. See above for more details. Selected finalists will be posted in a showcase on my website where agents and editors can request them.

How do I know this is a good contest? Do you have any proof?

Check out these awesome Success Stories. I’m still happy dancing for the talented writers and author/illustrators!

I have more detailed stats from 2020 on. You can find them here. So happy for all the amazing things that have happened to our talented PBParty finalists.

I think it’s important to share that there are other ways PBParty has helped finalists.

Some were thrilled by the extra confidence they gained.
Many participants who didn’t make the final round said they learned how to write a great query and strengthen their manuscripts through the blog posts, Twitter tips…and reading the final entries is like taking an advanced picture book workshop. It’s so helpful to see strong samples. Plus, the daily Twitter chats in March help connect people with the amazing online picture book community.
In 2021, I created a Facebook group for finalists where they’ve cheered each other on and still support each other. Many have formed advanced critique groups through the Facebook group. I LOVE seeing how finalists have helped each other grow and celebrate. I can’t wait to welcome the new finalists to the Facebook group. 🙂

We’ve had tons of successful agent-writer matches and several amazing books published so far. Here are a few from 2019 and earlier.

A Flood of Kindness by Ellen Leventhal sold to WorthyKids (Hachette Book Group) by Mary Cummings.

Flap Your Hands by Steve Asbell sold to Lee and Low by Christy Ewers.

Here’s some PBParty final entries that are now published! Huge congrats.

Past PBParty stats

PBParty 2022

Total entries: ~1000

Participating agents & editors: 70

Agent/Editor requests:

Finalists: 352

Illustration Showcase: 163

Total requests: 515

Signed with PBParty agents and editors: 23 (with more to be announced soon–wahoooo!)

We also have over 11 2022 finalists who signed with other agents/editors since the showcase.

~Stay tuned for new Success Stories and blurbs. There’s so much to celebrate. 🙂

PBParty 2021

Total entries: 1,003

Finalists: 50

Illustrator Showcase: 20

Agent/Editor requests:

Finalists: 207

Illustration Showcase: 25

*Finalists had up to 18 agent & editor requests. Several finalists had multiple agent offers, too! So exciting. 🙂

*We have SO many successes from 2021. Wahooooo! You’ll see more of their stories pop up on my website (many are waiting until news of a sale is official and they can shout that out as well as how PBParty helped them sign with an agent). I’ll share a post full of shorter blurbs about how PBParty has helped finalists soon, too.

PBParty 2020

Entries: 526

Finalists: 29

Illustrator Showcase: 12

Agent/Editor requests:

Finalists: 132

Illustration Showcase: 27 (Plus Kaitlyn Sanchez’s generous offer in the comments = 12 more for 39…and she now reps two of them–wahooo!)

Total specific requests = 159!

With Kaitlyn’s offer – 171!

***I know of 8 who now have agents from PBParty 2020 and two more who received offers, but chose to go with different agents.

PBParty 2019

818 entries (2 allowed per person)

Several finalists were picked up by agents who sold their manuscripts! This was my first year…and I started keeping better track of everything in 2020.

I just learned about PBParty and missed the window. Can I send my entry late?

No. Once the Google form closes, submissions are done for the year. We hope you’ll join us next time.

It’s called PBParty….so where’s the party?

The party is on Twitter and BlueSky under #PBParty. But it isn’t a pitching party. It’s more of a get to know you party. We post daily topics—it’s a great way to make new writer and author/illustrator friends! Agents and editors might stop by. It’s a place to hang out and have fun while the host and judges read the entries. (Pssst–we often shout out tips and teasers.)

Everyone is welcome to join in the #PBParty conversation.

I’m not EST. How do I make sure I don’t miss the contest window?

Don’t worry, there are lots of ways to make sure you don’t miss the submission window.

*I’ll shout out tons of reminders on Twitter, BlueSky and the PBParty Participant Facebook group.

*I posted a World Clock toward the bottom of this contest announcement. 🙂

Helpful FAQs for author/illustrators

Can I send an illustration?

Yes! If you’re an author/illustrator we encourage you to do so, but it’s not required. You may attach two full color, finished illustrations from the same manuscript with your entry if you created both the text and the art.

*If you’re submitting illustrations, make sure you use the author/illustrator Google form, which will be listed second on submission day. The form for authors won’t let you attach illustrations.

There’s two showcases for agents and editors?

Yes. There’s a showcase that includes queries and excerpts (plus two illustrations from author/illustrators). There’s also an Illustration Showcase that only includes illustrations. Each illustration will be assigned a number and agents will request by that number.

If you’re chosen for the sample and query part of the contest—yay, that’s awesome! You won’t be eligible for the Illustration Showcase, but plenty of agents and editors will see your entire contest submission in our final round.

Do I have to send two illustrations?

You have the choice of sending only your writing sample, pitch, etc. without illustrations in the Google form for writers…or you may send two full color, finished illustrations along with your sample and pitch on the author/illustrator Google form.

You may not send only one illustration.

*If you want to receive new blog posts by e-mail, don’t forget to add your name to the upper right of my blog.

I’m counting the days until the amazing entries pour in!

If you’re looking for great new picture books to read and would love the chance to win critiques, Zoom chats, and signed books, check out my monthly PB Buzz.

If you’d like extra motivation to write a new picture book plus give and receive a critique–check out my monthly PBParty New Draft Challenge & Critique Train! The next one is on February 20, all day EST. I hope you’ll hop aboard! It’s helped me write 12 new picture books a year (and it counts for 12x12PB, too)!

Here’s a World Clock in case you live in a different time zone and want to make sure you don’t miss the PBParty contest windows. :)

World Clock

115 Comments

Leave your reply.

Hannah Lapehn
· Reply

January 5, 2022 at 1:51 PM

Those are some amazing judges! Can’t wait to see the agents and editors! Thanks, Mindy!

3
- Mindy Alyse Weiss
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  January 5, 2022 at 2:36 PM
  
  Thanks, Hannah. I’m thrilled to have this amazing Dream Team of Judges. 🙂
  
  I can’t wait to share the agent/editor list–probably toward the end of the month. I have Success Stories and a HUGE surprise for everyone coming up first.
  
  1
  - Jess Freeman
    · Reply
    
    January 9, 2022 at 7:43 AM
    
    For some odd reason it won’t let me make a new comment, but I can write a reply. So, hello! Thank you for your hard work in creating this exciting contest! Snack food? Chips and quacamole!
    - elizabethscherman
      · Reply
      
      January 19, 2022 at 3:09 PM
      
      Yes, Jess, I can’t make a comment as well. I’m also confused about the instructions which first specify an excerpt of no more than 70 words, but then later specifies “The manuscript you submit to PBParty MUST BE AT LEAST 200 WORDS.” Do you understand this? I’m not seeing where to submit questions, so thanks for your insight!
      - kathleenlatlip
        · Reply
        
        January 22, 2022 at 2:01 AM
        
        It means that your total story word count needs to be above 200 words so that a majority of your story isn’t online for your safety.
Ashley Bankhead
· Reply

January 5, 2022 at 2:06 PM

I love PBParty! My favorite writing snack is anything chocolate! Preferably dark chocolate.

1
- Mindy Alyse Weiss
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  January 5, 2022 at 2:37 PM
  
  Yay! Ooh, chocolate is a great writing snack. 🙂
Sarah Hetu-Radny
· Reply

January 5, 2022 at 2:10 PM

Gluten free double stuffed Oreos dipped in almond milk

1
- Mindy Alyse Weiss
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  January 5, 2022 at 2:39 PM
  
  I’ve never tried the gluten free kind, but double stuffed Oreos are amazing. 🙂
  
  My daughter is really into oat milk now. And something with pea protein. Cashew milk is pretty good, too. It’s amazing how many non-dairy alternatives are out there now.
  - Sarah Hetu-Radny
    · Reply
    
    January 5, 2022 at 2:40 PM
    
    I get oat milk in my dunks!
    
    I’ll have to look into pea protein.
Steena Hernandez
· Reply

January 5, 2022 at 2:11 PM

Hi Mindy! I’m excited for my first PBParty! My snack is always popcorn. 😃

1
- Mindy Alyse Weiss
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  January 5, 2022 at 2:40 PM
  
  Yay! I’m so glad you’re entering your first PBParty, Steena. 🙂
  
  Yum, I love popcorn, but can’t eat it while typing or it would probably leave crumbs in my keyboard. It’s one of my favorite TV treats.
  
  2
Megan Whitaker
· Reply

January 5, 2022 at 2:39 PM

Can’t wait! Being a finalist last year was a dream come true.

1
Molly Ippolito
· Reply

January 5, 2022 at 3:37 PM

Can’t believe it’s this time of year already! So excited for another chance! Thank you again for organizing this…I know it must be a huge undertaking. We really appreciate it so much!

2
Jessica Milo
· Reply

January 5, 2022 at 3:52 PM

I’m so excited to join the PBParty contest – it’s my first year!! I’m also interested in joining the PBParty New Draft Challenge and Critique Train! Both sound fabulous and helpful! My fave snack lately while writing: tootsie rolls!

1
amckelle
· Reply

January 5, 2022 at 3:53 PM

I’m so excited for this! Thank you to all the judges, agents and editors! And my preferred snack is pretzels.

1
Lizzie Maxwell
· Reply

January 5, 2022 at 4:01 PM

AWESOME Mindy! Thank you so much! I prefer red licorice from Trader Joe’s. However, by March 1st, i hope to go cold turkey on the sugar!

1
- Mindy Alyse Weiss
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  January 17, 2022 at 5:15 AM
  
  Good luck–I’m not sure I could ever go cold turkey on sugar. I’ve heard it gets easier as time goes on, but it’s hard to imagine. Especially while writing late at night.
Wendy
· Reply

January 5, 2022 at 4:37 PM

I’m an excited bag of nerves already and circling March 1 on the calendar. Fueled by habanero spiced almonds and cheez-its in equal portions, the revising begins anew.

1
Patricia J. Franz (@patriciajfranz1)
· Reply

January 5, 2022 at 5:01 PM

OMG! Mindy, you are generous beyond compare?? How did I not know about this contest last year? What a gift to look forward to in March! THANK YOU!!

2
- Mindy Alyse Weiss
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  January 17, 2022 at 5:14 AM
  
  You’re welcome, Patricia. I’m glad you know about it now. 🙂
Elayne
· Reply

January 5, 2022 at 7:40 PM

My favorite writing snack would be pretzels, but only because I am a messy eater and don’t want to get cheese or chocolate (my real favorites) on my keyboard.

1
pbbeckyk
· Reply

January 6, 2022 at 6:06 AM

Yay! I’m excited to participate in your fantastic contest again this year, Mindy! Thank you so much for all that you do to create this amazing opportunity. Now I need to load up on all the writing snacks and get busy revising. Some of my favorites are Siete chips. (grain free!)

1
Laurie Seaford
· Reply

January 7, 2022 at 9:25 AM

I’ve never been good at choosing only one favorite—apple slices, tortilla chips, or Trader Joe’s peanut butter cups. Mmmm!

Thanks so much for organizing this, Mindy.

1
- Mindy Alyse Weiss
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  January 17, 2022 at 5:13 AM
  
  Thanks, Laurie. 🙂
  
  Ooh, you could combine the apple slices and peanut butter cups. Maybe adding tortilla chips to it will taste like a chocolate peanut butter apple pie.
  - Janet Tamborini
    · Reply
    
    January 23, 2022 at 9:44 PM
    
    Wow, I am beyond excited about this terrific opportunity! Thank you, thank you!
    As for snacking while I write, this retired preschool teacher loves to munch on nuts and dried fruit.
ematzenstudiogmailcom
· Reply

January 13, 2022 at 4:40 AM

Mindy!! I’m looking forward to Spring. What a fantastic opportunity to connect! Latest snack – Talenti Dairy-Free Sorbetto, Raspberry.

1
Christina Shawn
· Reply

January 15, 2022 at 10:50 AM

This is great! My favorite writing snack is popcorn or anything crunchy!

1
Bonnie Kelso
· Reply

January 16, 2022 at 3:59 PM

This is such a fun contest! Looking forward to entering again this year. 🙂 Thanks for the pickle chips!

6
Lisa Ikegami
· Reply

January 16, 2022 at 5:07 PM

Hey Mindy! A couple things – I didn’t receive this blog post via email. Just saw on Twitter. I wanted to make sure I am still on your mailing list! I did receive the posts dated. 1/5/22 and 1/10/22, so I just want to make sure!
Also- The post says that the deadline is “Monday, March 1”. I know that the first submittal deadline is midnight, but this year, March 1 is on a Tuesday. So I just want to double check! Thank you!!

3
- Mindy Alyse Weiss
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  January 17, 2022 at 5:11 AM
  
  Hi Lisa. This is the January 5 post, so maybe you aren’t missing any? If you don’t receive the agent/editor list via e-mail by tomorrow night, can you enter your name in the upper left again?
  
  Ooh, thank you so much! I switched it to Tuesday. 🙂
  
  1
Christina Frigo
· Reply

January 18, 2022 at 9:19 AM

Looking forward to this, Mindy! Does crushed ice count as a writing snack? Probably terrible for my teeth, but it helps me focus!

1
- Mindy Alyse Weiss
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  January 24, 2022 at 5:50 AM
  
  I’d say it counts. First time I’ve ever heard of it as a snack, but I love ice cold water while writing.
  
  Hospitals always have the best ice chips! There has to be a way to get ones like that at home. They don’t feel hard enough to hurt teeth.
susaninez0905
· Reply

January 18, 2022 at 10:57 AM

Thanks lady! I am looking forward to this. Getting my manuscript ready! 🙂

1
LolaA
· Reply

January 18, 2022 at 4:03 PM

Definitely crunchy carbies like tortilla chips! How fun is this event. Can’t wait!

1
Lindsey
· Reply

January 19, 2022 at 6:43 PM

I’m so excited to participate in this contest! Thank you so much for putting this together! My favorite writing snack is probably microwave popcorn – the more butter the better 😉

1
- Mindy Alyse Weiss
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  January 24, 2022 at 5:48 AM
  
  Buttered popcorn is one of my favorite TV/movie snacks…but I’d make a mess of my keyboard if I ate it while writing, LOL.
  
  One of my high school friends loved butter so much, he called popcorn a vehicle to get butter into his mouth. Sounds like you feel the same way. 🙂
Dianna Wilson Sirkovsky
· Reply

January 20, 2022 at 2:14 PM

What a stellar selection of agents and editors, Mindy! Thank you for your hard work. Can’t wait 🙂

1
Guitar Hanna
· Reply

January 21, 2022 at 11:58 PM

Thank you, Mindy, for creating such an event! And thank you to all the judges, agents, and editors who are participating.

1
kathleenlatlip
· Reply

January 22, 2022 at 2:02 AM

I’m so excited for this years contest! My entire critique group are entering. We are cheering each other on! Thank you Mindy and judges!!!

2
- Mindy Alyse Weiss
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  January 24, 2022 at 5:46 AM
  
  Yay! I love when critique groups participate in events like this together. 🙂
Sabrina Shah ✨writes #PB and #SpookyMG✨ (@writes_Sabrina)
· Reply

January 22, 2022 at 8:01 AM

my favourite snack is jaffa cakes, literally eat a whole packet of them. noms! I better get my MS prepared 🙂

1
Julie Fruitticher Schroeder
· Reply

January 22, 2022 at 9:28 AM

Thank you, Mindy! You have created an amazing event and I can hardly wait for March 1st!

1
yangmommy
· Reply

January 22, 2022 at 12:29 PM

You have put together a fantastic contest & event! Kudos to you for all the behind-the-scenes work!! And I can’t wait for March 🙂

1
Joy Moore
· Reply

January 22, 2022 at 1:17 PM

Do you include your bio in the query?
- Mindy Alyse Weiss
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  January 24, 2022 at 5:44 AM
  
  Yes, you include your bio in the query. It’s just like a query you’d send to an agent or editor–without naming one specific agent/editor.
  
  You can find even more details here: https://mindyalyseweiss.com/ufaqs/things-youll-need-for-the-google-form/
Karen Chun
· Reply

January 24, 2022 at 2:15 AM

Wow, what an amazing opportunity. So happy to be following all these PB writers. This writing community is super generous!

1
debbiemoeller
· Reply

January 24, 2022 at 6:47 PM

Sounds wonderful! I’m looking forward to participating this year.

1
Katie Schwartz
· Reply

January 24, 2022 at 10:03 PM

Gosh, excited for this again (last year was my first year entering). There’s just so much that’s fun and uplifting about your posts and all the opportunities, so thank you Mindy!
My fav snack right now is chocolate covered popcorn, which if I’m lucky I get as a Christmas present, and I keep snack-sized bags in my freezer so it lasts longer!

1
Wayne Kramer
· Reply

January 25, 2022 at 12:48 PM

Wow, this is very cool, and perfect timing for me! Question: what about an author-illustrator team? Can I submit illustrations in this case?

1
- Mindy Alyse Weiss
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  January 26, 2022 at 2:24 AM
  
  I’m sorry, but it must be by the same author/illustrator vs. a team for this contest. Most editors prefer to find their own illustrator if the writer doesn’t also do the illustrations. Plus, it allows them to try to find someone who is well known for a debut author to help boost the visibility.
  
  Do you have a text-only version of any of your books?
Elspeth Lorraine
· Reply

January 25, 2022 at 3:49 PM

This is my first year participating! I will be eating hummus and pita in anticipation. Ekkk! So excited.

1
Natasha Garnett
· Reply

January 27, 2022 at 11:56 AM

Wow, this sounds great. #PBParty!! And all those Rafflecopter opportunities… Fav snack is small bowl (well, who defines small?) of semi-sweet chocolate chips, broken up pretzel rods, and toasted almonds.

1
blairmoorebooks
· Reply

February 3, 2022 at 11:41 AM

Love this! Dark chocolate. 🙂

1
Kerry Aradhya
· Reply

February 8, 2022 at 4:19 PM

Thanks, Mindy! Perhaps I have too many favorite writing snacks 🙂 But I’ll say chips and guacamole for today!

1
Poupette
· Reply

February 8, 2022 at 9:32 PM

Hi Mindy. Must I open a Twitter account to partake in this contest?
- Mindy Alyse Weiss
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  February 9, 2022 at 2:23 AM
  
  Hi Poupette. You don’t need to be on Twitter for the PBParty contest. 🙂 There’s fun chats on Twitter and I post reminders there, but the Google entry form will be on my website. As long as you receive my blog posts, you’ll have all the info you’ll need (including the list of finalists on March 17).
  - Poupette
    · Reply
    
    February 16, 2022 at 12:19 PM
    
    Thanks, Mindy. I can see that you’re putting a lot of work into this contest and I thank you for it! I do, however, have these questions: Who is judging, and do editors and agents see these only if judges deem them potential finalists? Re. the pasted 60-70 wds + optional 100+ wds. at bottom of submission, I’m confused by this as you suggest not posting entire PB for reasons of privacy, but what do you suggest in cases of ms word counts between 200 and 250? Again thanks!
    - Mindy Alyse Weiss
      · Reply
      
      Author
      
      February 18, 2022 at 7:56 AM
      
      Hi Poupette,
      
      The judges are all listed above under Additional Info. Editors and agents only see entries from the finalists (last year there were 50 out of 1003, plus 20 in the Illustration Showcase).
      
      The final 100+ words are ONLY for the judges and I to help us make our final choices. They won’t be online for the agents, editors, or anyone to see.
      
      Sharing the full manuscript that’s between 200 and 250 words in that section is fine, since it won’t be online if you’re a finalist.
      - Poupette
        · Reply
        
        February 18, 2022 at 5:18 PM
        
        Hi Mindy. Apologies for missing your list. You post lots of interesting content and that snuck by me! Thanks too for clarifying what to include in cases of 200-250 word counts, and for specifying the minimum 200+ words threshold (I’d been contemplating a ms. totaling 117 wds.).
ejessmurray
· Reply

February 11, 2022 at 10:34 PM

Looks terrific, Mindy! Thanks for hosting and cheers to you & all who are making it happen!

1
sabrinashah84
· Reply

February 12, 2022 at 10:02 AM

Hi Mindy,
I have a question about the google form and the LAST 100 or more words (up to 500 words) of your picture book:

So does this essential mean to send through the rest of your manuscript if for example the whole this is say 450 words in total?

You’d sample the 60-70 words (public) and then send the rest at the end of the form (for editors/agents) so all in all, the complete thing?

Hope you can clarify as whether to send only 100 words or more.

Thanks you
Sabrina
- Mindy Alyse Weiss
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  February 13, 2022 at 7:33 AM
  
  Hi Sabrina,
  
  If your manuscript is less than 570 words, you can put the rest of it in the spot toward the end of the Google form.
  
  That won’t be for agents, editors, or the final showcase though. It’s to help the judges make final decisions if they need to see more before placing entries in the final spots.
  
  We realized having more available would be helpful in the past, but it’s the first time we added this. I almost said the rest of the manuscript, but worried there would be a bunch over 1000 words and I’d run out of room in Google for everything.
  
  We’ll see how it goes this year and might make tweaks on it for 2023. 🙂
  
  2
juliehamptonc228d7b913
· Reply

February 16, 2022 at 3:26 PM

Hi Mindy, one of the illustrations I am submitting is a double page spread, (image crosses the gutter). So for the second one, to keep them the same size, I am wondering if two separate images on facing pages would be able to be counted as one image. OR, if I have a page in my dummy with two spot drawings on it, can that count as one illustration? Thanks and apologies if this has already been answered.
- Mindy Alyse Weiss
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  February 18, 2022 at 7:51 AM
  
  They need to visually be the same size. Do you have another double page spread or two pages facing each other you can use?
  
  Good luck! 🙂
  - Dr. Carole Ann Rollins
    · Reply
    
    January 21, 2023 at 9:22 AM
    
    I want to submit as an author/illustrator. Can I submit 2 spreads (each 15 x 7.5)? Or just submit two separate illustrations as 7.5 x 7.5 each?
    
    Can the illustrations have words on them when submitting illustrations in the author/illustrator category? (I illustrate the text also as well as full page illustrations). Also clarify that each illustration can only be 1 MB. Correct?
    
    I understand if I was submitting as an Illustrator only, the submissions could not have words on them.
    - Mindy Alyse Weiss
      · Reply
      
      Author
      
      January 22, 2023 at 12:29 AM
      
      Hi Carole,
      
      Both illustrations must be the same size–either two pages, or two double spreads.
      
      Last year we added that words can’t be included (other than ‘welcome’ for a welcome mat, etc. but not the actual manuscript text).
      
      Yes, each illustration can only be 1MB.
      
      Participants are either writers or author/illustrators.
Tonnye Fletcher
· Reply

February 16, 2022 at 4:34 PM

Working hard to get ready! Today I’m munching on potato chips, but I love all kinds of snacks from sweet to salty to tangy — just depends on my mood. Thanks for the virtual snacks and thanks for all the hard work for the contest!

1
Jane Martin
· Reply

February 21, 2022 at 1:51 PM

CHO-CO-LA-TE!

1
Jane Martin
· Reply

February 21, 2022 at 1:53 PM

Quick question. I’m new to PBparty and I’ve read everything twice (I promise). Where do we find the link to the Google Doc form? Will it be here on your website?
- Mindy Alyse Weiss
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  February 28, 2022 at 8:11 AM
  
  The Google form links were added to this post and also on my latest post with all the info you’ll need to enter: https://mindyalyseweiss.com/the-2022-pbparty-contest-is-almost-here
  
  Good luck. 🙂
Leslie Piotrowski
· Reply

February 22, 2022 at 1:41 PM

Hi Mindy. Thanks so much for putting this fun event together! My favorite snack is Brie cheese and crackers.

1
Betsy Devany
· Reply

February 23, 2022 at 7:41 AM

Thanks for all you do, Mindy! As for favorite snack at the moment: Ritz crackers with hot pepper jelly. Perfect combo of salty and sweet.

1
georgeandjohanna
· Reply

February 23, 2022 at 2:34 PM

Hi. This is my first year participating. Can you please clarify something. The rules say entries cannot be over 70 words and not to stop in the middle of a sentence. So should I submit 58 words or 93 words. (The last sentence is 35 words.)
Thanks, Johanna
- Mindy Alyse Weiss
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  February 28, 2022 at 8:12 AM
  
  If your last sentence is 35 words, you’ll need to submit 58 words. 93 words would disqualify you…and we don’t want that to happen.
  
  Good luck. 🙂
Jeanette Choe
· Reply

February 23, 2022 at 7:17 PM

Hi Mindy! I apologize if you answered this somewhere else, but where is the link to Google form? Will it only be posted on March 1st?
- Mindy Alyse Weiss
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  February 28, 2022 at 8:13 AM
  
  I added the links to the Google forms on this post and also have all the info you’ll need to enter here: https://mindyalyseweiss.com/the-2022-pbparty-contest-is-almost-here
  
  Good luck. 🙂
vicky
· Reply

February 23, 2022 at 9:20 PM

Hi I like to chew honey-lemon cough drops while I write! Can you tell me if the Google form has gone out yet? As I just joined the list, and it said it would be sent in February so I’m wondering if I missed it Thanks!
vicky
· Reply

February 23, 2022 at 11:53 PM

Got the post with the form link, thanks! Signing up to get new posts via email. Thanks so much for putting this interesting event together!

1
- Mindy Alyse Weiss
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  February 28, 2022 at 8:14 AM
  
  Yay! I’m glad you have it.
  
  Good luck. 🙂
remi
· Reply

February 24, 2022 at 9:15 AM

Hi Mindy! Thank you for organizing this wonderful event! Apologies if I missed this, but are the finalists the only people that get their submissions posted on your site?
- remi
  · Reply
  
  February 26, 2022 at 7:02 PM
  
  Never mind, I answered my own question :). It’s my first time at the PBParty!
  
  3
Katie Snyder
· Reply

February 25, 2022 at 6:57 PM

Hi Mindy.
1. Scared to death, but still game to try!
2. Cannot write and eat at the same time. If I get an urge for chocolate, I take a break and bake!
3. Don’t see any spot “toward the end of the Google form” to attach remainder of manuscript. Is it hidden until March 1?
- Mindy Alyse Weiss
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  February 28, 2022 at 8:15 AM
  
  The last 100 – 500 words will be pasted into the second to last question on the Google form. You can flip through the four screenshots above to see what it will look like.
Nancy Ferguson
· Reply

February 26, 2022 at 12:29 PM

Thank you MIndy!! It’s my first PB PARTY! I have my file all set to cut and paste. I’m wishing good luck to “all who enter here”.

1
Tracy Schuldt Helixon
· Reply

February 26, 2022 at 8:59 PM

I just learned about PBParty from a friend in my Zoom critique group last week, and I could hardly wait to check it out. Thank you for putting this together, Mindy! My favorite writing snack is coffee — specifically, a mint chocolate mocha, hot in the winter and iced in the summer. Cheers!

1
Deborah Holt Williams
· Reply

February 27, 2022 at 1:23 AM

Thanks for all the work you’ve done on this, Mindy! I share my dark chocolate and coffee snack with you, virtually.

1
karenrwg
· Reply

February 27, 2022 at 9:15 AM

Thank you Mindy for your incredible kindess in offering this opportunity to those of us unpublished. This kindness has required such hard work and masterful organization. You are special in many ways and so very much appreciated.

1
- Mindy Alyse Weiss
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  February 28, 2022 at 8:04 AM
  
  Aw, thank you SO much! This comment made my day. 🙂
MJ Wallace
· Reply

February 27, 2022 at 4:56 PM

Hi Mindy,
My daughter in law & I are an author/illustrator team. May we submit to the author/illustrator page or can it only be an”individual” author/illustrator?
- Mindy Alyse Weiss
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  February 28, 2022 at 8:03 AM
  
  I’m sorry, but only one person can enter either as a writer or author/illustrator. Many agents are seeking author/illustrators and it can be tricky when two people are involved. We made this rule in order to secure so many incredible agents for this event.
  
  I think it’s wonderful that you’re working together and wish you both lots of luck getting your books published as a team!
  
  If you have a manuscript you’d consider having published without her illustrations, you could submit it. If there’s interest, you could suggest her…but many publishers like to pair newer writers with established illustrators to help boost sales.
Kathi Morrison-Taylor
· Reply

February 27, 2022 at 8:37 PM

Thanks, Mindy! My entry this year is a bit of a risk, but I’m tired of playing it safe. Frosted circus animal cookies, please. Pink camels with sprinkles are the greatest!

1
Janelle Youngstrom
· Reply

February 28, 2022 at 1:37 AM

I am excited for the party! My favorite snack: trail mix. Just the classic with the actual M&Ms. Thank you so much for putting this together! I’m sure it’s not easy and it’s such a great opportunity for PB writers!

1
literacycoaching
· Reply

February 28, 2022 at 9:05 AM

This is my first time entering. Excited to be a part of this contest. My favorite writing snack is a banana…trying to keep it healthy.

1
Trudy
· Reply

February 28, 2022 at 6:29 PM

popcorn!

1
marialaplacabohrer
· Reply

February 28, 2022 at 7:08 PM

Thank you for this opportunity! My favorite writing snack are York Peppermint Patties!

1
- marialaplacabohrer
  · Reply
  
  February 28, 2022 at 7:10 PM
  
  *snacks (Because I can’t just eat one!)
Nadine Poper
· Reply

February 28, 2022 at 9:07 PM

My favorite writing snack is Just Born Jellybeans! Thank you for this amazing contest.

1
Colleen Dougherty
· Reply

February 28, 2022 at 9:53 PM

Thank you, Mindy! This is my first time with #PBParty! Thank you for the opportunity! A glazed donut with a glass of milk sounds perfect!

1
Susie Sawyer
· Reply

February 28, 2022 at 11:50 PM

Chips and salsa!! 😀

Thank you so much, Mindy, for all the hard work you’ve put into this project once again. This is such a fantastic opportunity for us to hone our stories and queries and get them polished up for this or another future opportunity!

1
Allison Lazerus
· Reply

March 1, 2022 at 12:41 AM

Thanks for this incredible opportunity, Mindy! When I’m not busy writing about food, I love to munch on roasted seaweed snacks! They are better than they look and on the healthier side! Good luck to all of the writers!

1
Melanie Paidipalli
· Reply

March 1, 2022 at 12:15 PM

Peanut Butter M&M’s! I need some right now. Thank you for all that you do, Mindy!

1
claireflewis
· Reply

March 1, 2022 at 2:17 PM

Thank you so much for all your hard work organizing this, Mindy! My favourite writing snack has to be salted peanuts! I have a quick query – does the wordcount for the final 100-500 words include or exclude illustration notes? (apologies if you’ve mentioned that somewhere and I’ve missed it!)
- Mindy Alyse Weiss
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  March 1, 2022 at 3:49 PM
  
  Don’t worry too much about the final 100 – 500 word count–that’s only for the judges in case we need help figuring out who should be in the final showcase spots. Nobody will be disqualified for being a bit over because of art notes, etc. there.
  
  The area we’re super-strict about is the 70 word sample limit.
  
  Good luck. 🙂
cantsing1
· Reply

March 1, 2022 at 2:56 PM

And does that count of 100-500 include the first 70 words?
- Mindy Alyse Weiss
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  March 1, 2022 at 3:47 PM
  
  The last 100 – 500 words of your manuscript could be the full or could continue where your sample leaves off. This is a new addition this year, and we’re leaving it up to participants to decide. We might tweak the rules for it next year.
  
  Good luck. 🙂
Bettie Boswell
· Reply

March 1, 2022 at 6:01 PM

Entered…This was my first time!
Tatum
· Reply

February 11, 2023 at 7:04 AM

What a great event every year. Thanks for your talents and time to all the volunteers.
randimrvos
· Reply

February 14, 2023 at 9:14 AM

Mindy, Thank you for this amazing opportunity. The contact page wouldn’t send my question so I hope you can answer: would a manuscript submitted to 2 of the agents on the list (not through a contest) be eligible for the PB Party?