Kids Comics Pitchfest 2023 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Comics creators from around the world submit their unpublished projects to be previewed online by editors and agents.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.
Confessions of a Clown Shark in Training
Sid is thrilled to audition for the best (and only) clown school under the sea, Atlantis Circus Academy (ACA.) At the end of the year the top students get to perform in the ocean-renowned Neptune Cirque. But Sid’s dreams sink fast when he is rejected because he’s a Shark. Taking matters into his own fins, Sid gathers other ACA rejects, including its former co-founder to start their own academy, where everyone is accepted. To get the coveted slot in the Circque, both schools must audition. If they are going to beat ACA, who will do ANYTHING to stay in the spotlight, Sid must convince the ensemble of misfits, and himself, that it is their differences and unique talents that make them all sea stars.
Age Range:
Middle GradeGenre:
Animals, Fantasy, Fiction, Humor, Performing Arts, Social-Emotional, Social IssuesPage Count Estimate:
200
My Why:
Sid’s journey was inspired by my own childhood. I wanted to be in the spotlight but first I had to overcome other peoples preconceived notions of my abilities and my own self-doubts because of my ADHD - not because I was a shark. Like Sid, I never gave up and found my own spaces where I thrived. As an author, mom and theater educator I wanted to create a story to inspire young readers to be confident in who they are, no matter how the world might perceive them.
Hollie Michaels
Hollie Michaels is a neurodiverse author and illustrator, a K-12 theater teacher, a published youth playwright with a master’s in creative writing scripts and a master’s in educational theater. Recently, her illustration portfolio won the 2023 Tassy Walden Award for New Voices. In 2025 Hollie has an unannounced chapter book series being traditionally published. She is a member of 12X12, SCBWI, Kids Comics Unite, and two critique groups.