GENRE: **Diverse, Humor, Rhyming
WORDS: 316
Query:
Dear Judges, Agents and Editors,
Imagine Romeo and Juliet set in a canine-feline dancehall. Welcome to GINGER AND FRED!
In the town of Pawllywood, dogs twirl with dogs, and cats whirl with cats. That’s the way it’s always been. In fact, it’s the law. So, when an unexpected pair turns up with a new style of dance, the locals are livid. Cats and dogs can’t be dance partners – they’re not even friends! Will dancefloor rebels Ginger the cat and Fred the Dalmatian prove that all it takes is a bit of dogged determination to become a catalyst for change?
At 316 words, GINGER AND FRED is reminiscent of the rhyme, humour and animal antics of SAM FRANCISCO AND THE CAT DISCO (Sarah Tagholm, Binny Talib), and its main characters are challenged by being from different backgrounds, like in THE SMEDS AND THE SMOOS (Julia Donaldson, Axel Scheffler). This uplifting story for children aged 3-6 has a gentle message about being brave despite the naysayers. It celebrates the trailblazers and the change-makers, and encourages inclusivity and acceptance. I’ve used rhyme and meter to inject an element of fun and to conjure the feeling of a waltz when read aloud.
I am based in Sydney, Australia. My publication history includes micro-fiction and prose published by Australian publishers, as well as freelance articles in online publications. My rhyming picture book manuscripts have won awards in a number of Australian competitions, and I love learning more about the craft through courses, workshops and my critique group.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Excerpt:
A long time ago in an underground hall,
the locals of Pawllywood hosted a ball.
In glittering dresses, tails and top hats,
dogs twirled with dogs, and cats whirled with cats.
The night was fantastic – a splendid affair –
until the crowd spotted one strange-looking pair.
No one expected a duo like that:
Fred the Dalmatian and Ginger the Cat.
The band froze in horror, and everyone stared.
What inspired you to write this story & what do you have in common with it:
I wanted to write a fun story that empowers children to challenge the status quo and celebrate difference. As a Malaysian-Indian, I have had many experiences where my skin color has impacted people’s perceptions and behavior. I’d love for my story to promote discussion about acceptance, empathy and resilience. I work in Change and Communications, often discussing the process of dealing with change. Ginger and Fred’s dancehall critics allowed me to show how denial and resistance can shift to exploration and acceptance. I am also a fan of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers!
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