Kids Comics Pitchfest Showcase
Comics creators from around the world submit their unpublished projects to be previewed online by editors and agents. A panel of judges (click here to see the juror list) select the top pitches. Projects are archived here so that industry pros may view them and discover new talent.
Carly Cloud and the Hurricane Heroes
An 11-year-old meteorologist extraordinaire is ready for action when extreme weather puts people in danger. Now a hurricane threatens, and she’s the expert the Tropical Weather HQ needs, but she didn’t forecast her annoying vlogger classmate to tag along. His quest to grow his audience is the last thing she needs as she’s laser focused on the mission. As the storm looms closer, she suspects a surprising turn in the forecast, but is ordered to get to safety. With the clock ticking, they must work as a team as she defies orders and rushes to help citizens prepare for the storm!
Age Range:
Middle GradeGenre:
Adventure, Conservation & Environment, FictionPage Count Estimate:
200
My Why:
With backgrounds in atmospheric science, and a passion to create kids’ books, naturally we’d create a graphic novel about the weather! This story carries threads of our life. As meteorologists, we’re constantly asked, “Are you on TV?” We were inspired to create something that shows how diverse atmospheric science careers can be. We hope to weave more about the MC’s experience of being a female in STEM into future books. The MC is adopted, just like our own son. It’s part of who she is, but not the focus of the story. It’s so important for children of all backgrounds to see themselves in books, and to have open minds to the possibility of a future STEM career. We hope this story will inspire and entertain all readers!
Geoff Wagner
Geoff Wagner earned his BS and MS degrees in Meteorology and now works for NOAA’s National Weather Service. He has been drawing since he could hold a pencil and grew up making comics with his friends. He earned a diploma in Graphic Design and is always working to improve his illustration skills through courses and practice. Geoff is an active member of KCU/S, SCBWI, and a student of the Kids Comics Intensive course.
Ashlee Wagner
Ashlee Wagner earned her BS and MS degrees in Meteorology, worked for a renewable energy company for a decade, and then retired to raise kids and teach. At University, she worked with educational outreach programs to spread the importance of science education, especially for middle school girls, where interest often dwindles. She is always learning and working to improve her writing. Ashlee is an active member of KCU/S, SCBWI, and a student of the Kids Comics Intensive course.