Quirk Books is excited to publish Kid Authors: True Tales of Childhood from Famous Writers (October 10, 2017), the latest addition to our Kid Legends series. This new title features thoroughly researched, charmingly illustrated childhood biographies of a diverse cast of authors, including Beverly Cleary, Sherman Alexie, J. K. Rowling, Stan Lee, and more. Every chapter features the day-to-day challenges of growing up that even the world’s best-known writers had to deal with, like bullying, family trouble, and struggles making friends. These real-life stories prove that through bravery, hard work, and creativity, anyone can achieve their dreams.

To celebrate the release of this title, Quirk is hosting a Kid Authors Writing Contest. We invite students from your classroom to send us their original short stories (fewer than 300 words) from one of the following categories:

  • Dear Diary: Share a story in the diary format made famous by books like Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Kid Legend Jeff Kinney.
  • Fantastic Adventures: Tell a tale of fantasy and magic, just like Kid Legends J. K. Rowling and J. R. R. Tolkien.
  • Pow! Zoom! Comics!: Dream up your own superhero and create a six-panel comic featuring your character, just like Kid Legend Stan Lee.

​​​​​The winning story will be chosen by Kid Legends author David Stabler and illustrator Doogie Horner, and the winner’s classroom will receive a complete set of the Kid Legends series and the opportunity to have a special Skype visit from illustrator Doogie Horner. And all participating classrooms will get a little something fun!

Deadline for entries is December 15, 2017. All entries must be accompanied by the classroom entry form, which you can download by clicking here.

This Promotion is open only to eligible schools and teachers who teach grade levels 3-7. The eligible schools must be located in the 50 United States and the District of Columbia. Educators at eligible schools must be at least 21 years old and authorized by their school to enter the promotion. For full terms and conditions, click here.