Pitch-a-Polooza 2026 Results

Explanation of Scoring:

Judges received "blind" entries; names were removed for impartiality. We asked our judges to “like” each pitch they wanted submitted to them. We also asked them to rank their top three picks of pitches. Scores for each pitch were obtained from a combination of the number of "likes" received for each pitch, or the ranking (1st, 2nd, or 3rd place) awarded by each judge, if applicable. The following "weight" was assigned to each element: Like = 1 point, 3rd place ranking by judge = 2 points, 2nd place ranking by judge = 3 points, 1st place ranking by judge = 4 points.

We had 477 entries into this year’s pitch-writing contest, and the six judges awarded “likes” for 88 outstanding pitches. Congratulations! If you received a “like." instructions for submission were emailed to you. 

In addition to “likes,” the judges each ranked their first, second, and third choices. Scores were calculated based on a combination of likes and the weight of the judges’ rankings. The overall first-place winner will receive a free conference. Here are the 3 pitches with the highest overall scores based on likes and rankings. Congratulations!

1st Place: Debbie D'Aurelio: A boy and his father share ideas about the vastness of the galaxy. With a bird’s-eye view on each spread, readers visualize their own place in the universe, watching Earth become smaller and smaller as their imagination stretches farther into space. #PB. Global perspectives. This pitch received a total of 8 points: 2nd place from Claire Tattersfield, 3rd place from Kat Brzozowski, and a like from Lindsey Aduskevich.

2nd Place (2-way tie): 

Tomiiko Baker: In the hush of a backyard garden, Amara watches an orb weaver spin a radiant web of silk and light. Wonder replaces fear when she embraces the beautiful strands of her mixed heritage; Amara at the center holding everyone. #PB #POC (Braided Root + The Skull: A Tyrolean Folktale). This pitch received a total of 7 Points: 1st place from Ritu Anand, and likes from both Carter Hasegawa and Kat Brzozowski.

Jasmine Hodges: ARISTOTLE & DANTE X SAL & GABI

Carter, 14 & gay, feels at home in his small Southern town. When his parents announce a move, he discovers COPY + PASTE technology to replicate home in his new city. But in sharing his creation, he risks destroying it–and his closest friendship. #MR. This pitch received a total of 7 points: 3rd place from Carter Hasegawa and 2nd place from Kat Brzozowski.