KCU Pitchfest Showcase 2025 (Top 50)
Entire 2025 Gallery | List of Judges | 2023 Showcase
Comics creators from around the world have submitted their unpublished projects to be previewed online by editors and agents. A panel of judges have selected the top pitches. The projects are archived here so that industry pros may view them and discover new talent.
Pheline
12-year-old Pheline is perfectly content spending time in her bedroom writing word association with her extensive fountain pen collection. The best part about being alone is that she can take off the itchy, confining and uncomfortable human suit. In her room she can be what she thinks is her true self - A CAT!
At school, Pheline doesn’t fit in with her peers. She feels invisible and alone until the day she meets Kay, a tall lanky loner, and fellow fountain pen aficionado. Their mutual interest leads to Pheline’s first real friendship. As they spend more time together, Pheline struggles with whether she should share her alternate identity with Kay, or anyone?
Comparison titles include Jane, the Fox and Me, Be Prepared and New Kid
Age Range:
Middle Grade (approx ages 9-12)Genre:
Fiction, HumorPage Count Estimate:
Approximately 224
My Why:
Our society is lonelier than ever. Though I believe a creative inner life is valuable, real-life connections are essential. I want to highlight the need for interactions in the real world and an appreciation of the tangible, whether it be within our bodies, in nature or in relation to others. Pheline is inspired by watching children today navigate their lives, each longing to feel comfortable with themselves and their place in the world. Sometimes all it takes is one good friend to make a difference.
Melissa Mihalyov
After graduating from college with a fine arts degree, I worked for years as a graphic designer, first for the major local newspaper and later freelancing for some amazing clients. But I missed making a mess. So my passion for creating was reignited as was my love for art supplies. I‘ve been involved with SCBWI and RACWI. Recently, I‘ve become a member of Kids Comics Unite. I enjoy creating characters and their worlds, and painting pets. I also rescue house plants from Lowe’s.