Kids Comics Pitchfest 2026 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Comics creators from around the world submit their unpublished projects to be previewed online by editors and agents.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.
Zoey, Unafraid
Zoey has an escape plan. Rather than moving onto the same high school as the rest of her classmates, she hopes to attend the selective Chaplin High School For The Arts. Not only would she get to study her passion, but she would finally be able to get away from it all—the bullying, the loneliness—and start fresh.
When Zoey is not admitted, she has to grapple with what high school is going to look like for her. After finding community in unlikely places and embracing her talents in art, Zoey learns she has the power to tackle her problems head-on.
For fans of Svetlana Chmakova and Raina Telgemeier, Zoey, Unafraid is a middle grade contemporary story that explores art, self-esteem, community, and personal agency.
Age Range:
Middle Grade (approx ages 9-12)Genre:
Realistic Fiction/Slice of LifePage Count Estimate:
250
My Why:
While this story is not strictly autobiographical, it draws from my personal experiences in middle school. Like Zoey, I was bullied and experienced feelings of loneliness. I often fantasized about running away and starting over somewhere new. Several years later, I went to art school for college, and felt that the unique setting would be interesting to explore in a story.
Middle school is a time where everybody questions if they belong. I hope for my readers to connect with Zoey and know that they are not alone in these feelings. I also hope for Zoey’s story to empower them to take charge of their life, as I once learned how to take charge of mine.