“We must celebrate the simple victories and work together to make all children strong individuals, each in his or her own right,” said Sexton. “If we don’t keep our oceans and the rest of the environment safe, we could lose precious animals and sea creatures forever. Murdock may be a character in the ‘Duckey’ adventure, but sea otters like him are on the endangered species list, too. I can’t even imagine having written an adventure story that one day may have a character that’s literally extinct. But we can change that if we all work together as a team.”
The essay contest is part of the launch of the new environmental and educational tale of one lucky Duckey and his sea creature friends who are out to save the ocean from going black. “Duckey and the Ocean Protectors” was written by Sexton and Katie Gutierrez, and beautifully illustrated by Maciej Zajac. The team wants to encourage kids to act like the Ocean Protectors, using their own unique skills and talents to help protect the ocean – and save the planet.
The contest is open to all kids age 6-16. Contestants must answer two questions in their own words, in 250 words or less per question.
1. Why is it important to save the world’s oceans?
2. If you were an Ocean Protector, what kind of creature would you be, what one special power would you have, and why?
The winner’s character will be featured in the next book as the newest Ocean Protector, and the winner’s name will be included as a contributing writer. The top 10 finalists will receive an autographed copy of the book and their essays will be featured on www.duckeyops.com. All entries will become honorary Junior Ocean Protectors and receive a certificate.
Submissions must be emailed or postmarked by May 31, 2009. The winner and top 10 finalists will be announced on June 15, 2009. Winners will be contacted prior to announcement.
For more information or to submit an entry, please visit www.duckeyops.com/
Sexton has embarked on a mission to empower everyone—especially children, the leaders of the future. He hopes to inspire youngsters to see themselves as agents of positive change for our planet. Equally, Sexton, a United States Air Force veteran, endeavors to help them see that they can find inspiration for the pursuit of their dreams—whatever form they take—at every turn, in every living thing.
To learn more about “Duckey and the Ocean Protectors,”
