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Comics creators from around the world submit their unpublished projects to be previewed online by editors and agents.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.
Jo-jo's Yo-yo
In Jo-jo’s Yo-yo, a new friendship weathers a shaky start, paving the way for what will be a series of adventures featuring exuberantly friendly Jo-jo and reserved Ty. Finding a strange toy (a yo-yo!) is the catalyst for self-discovery and humor in this high-energy story full of visual gags and diverse characters. Themes of friendship, vulnerability, and resilience weave tenderly through the hijinx. Jo-jo’s Yo-yo is sure to be a hit with children in K-3rd grade, especially with struggling readers who will benefit from a wordbank carefully chosen based on the science of reading. In recent years, virtually every US state has passed legislation that requires schools to align with research in teaching reading. New resources are urgently needed.
Age Range:
Early ReaderGenre:
FictionPage Count Estimate:
32
My Why:
Jo-jo’s Yo-yo was born of a desire to create a series of books that I wish were available for my students -- bright 1st-3rd graders who struggle with reading and need books with text chosen thoughtfully for accessibility. Known as “decodable” books, these currently exist either as early readers for very young children or books that can sound stilted. Those are not the types of books that 2nd and 3rd graders want to read. A tidal wave of change has hit the educational world; teachers and families are demanding books that align with the “science of reading.” Meanwhile, children continue to demand engaging books. The GN format is perfect for telling a rich story with limited words. Jo-jo’s Yo-yo checks all the boxes!
Maura Sutherland
Hello, I’m Maura. I’ve spent my career helping children learn to read. While raising my family, I ran a busy tutoring business and, for the last twenty years, I have worked as the founding director of the learning support program at a private elementary school outside of Philadelphia.
I have a master's degree in special education, certification in many instructional reading programs, and a master’s certification in neuro-education.
Maeve Sutherland
I’m Maeve, and I love being part of the mother/daughter team! Back in the day I funded my B.A. in English with a Creative Writing scholarship. I also bring a visual artist’s eye to planning this graphic novel. The characters in this book are inspired by some of the kids my mom and I knew when we worked at an elementary school together. And my two-year-old is absolutely ga-ga for letters and sounds thanks to Maura.