GENRE: Character Driven, Narrative Non-Fiction
WORDS: 900
Query:
Dear PBParty Team,
January 12, 1888, started as an unusually warm day. No one knew that within a few hours, a devastating blizzard would cause temperatures to plummet below zero, putting many lives in danger, especially the children who were stranded at school.
I am writing to submit my 900-word narrative non-fiction for ages 8-12, MINNIE MAE BRAVED THE STORM, which describes how a young teacher helped her class survive this blizzard. Minnie Mae Freeman was only 19 when the storm descended upon her little prairie schoolhouse, ripping away the roof and door. She had no choice but to lead her students into the heart of the blinding blizzard to search for shelter. The white-out conditions made it impossible to see. Fearing her students may be lost, she tethered them with twine to trek through the treacherous storm. Due to her bravery and quick thinking, all of her students survived.
As a teacher, I am inspired by how Miss Freeman led her students to safety. I admire her bravery and devotion to her class. I think it is incredible how she stayed calm and encouraged her students to work together.
I am a member of the SCBWI. I’m also a 2021 PBParty finalist and a 2020/ 2023 Honorable Mention. I’ve had stories published in Spider Magazine and Clubhouse, Jr. I’ve completed courses at the Institute of Children’s Literature and Storyteller Academy. I have additional picture book and middle-grade manuscripts available upon request.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Excerpt:
A balmy breeze blew through the little schoolyard where Miss Minnie Mae Freeman rang the recess bell. She was eager to finish her lessons on this unusually warm January day, but as her students gathered, something in the distant sky caught her eye.
A wall of clouds approached, dark and ominous.
Miss Minnie gasped. Though she was only nineteen, she understood the sky’s fierce warning.
“Hurry inside, children,” she shouted.
What inspired you to write this story & what do you have in common with it:
I was inspired by the bravery and dedication that Miss Minnie showed by protecting her students and leading them to safety. As a teacher, I hope to show the same dedication to my students.
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