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In this episode of Book Worthy, Valerie interviews Yvonne M Morgan, an award-winning author known for her children's book 'Mary the Missionary.' They discuss the inspiration behind the book, which aims to teach children about compassion, cultural understanding, and faith through the adventures of a young girl named Mary in Kenya. Yvonne shares her experiences in mission work, the joy found in different cultures, and the importance of teaching children about the world around them. The conversation also touches on Yvonne's journey to becoming an author, her favorite books, and her future writing projects.

 Yvonne's Author Page

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Takeaways

Yvonne's first memorable book was 'The Ballerina.'

Her mission work inspired her to write children's books.

'Mary the Missionary' explores themes of compassion and cultural understanding.

Children can learn about joy despite poverty through stories.

Traveling helps us understand different cultures better.

Yvonne's journey to becoming an author was unexpected.

Mary's adventures teach kids about overcoming challenges.

Books can communicate deep messages to children.

Yvonne plans to write more books featuring Mary.

Exploring differences can enrich our lives. 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Yvonne M Morgan and Her Work

01:59 Inspiration Behind 'Mary the Missionary'

03:36 Cultural Insights from Kenya

05:33 Mary's Adventures and Challenges

07:32 Lessons on Faith and Understanding

09:19 Yvonne's Journey to Becoming an Author

11:11 Unique Travel Experiences and Insights

12:56 Favorite Books and Their Impact

14:34 Future Projects and Aspirations

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In this episode of Bookworthy, host Valerie interviews Jeff Maxam, author of the award-winning middle-grade fantasy, 'Smoke and Mirrors,' . They discuss the book's themes, including handling life's trials, the role of dragons, and the influence of C.S. Lewis. Jeff shares his writing journey and the impact of the Realm Makers Aurora Contest on his career.

Author Bio – Jeff Maxim

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Takeaways

• Handling life's trials is a central theme.
• Dragons play a significant role in the story.
• The book is set in a world similar to ours but different.
• Jeff's middle school experience inspired the story.
• The Realm Makers Aurora Contest was pivotal for Jeff.
• Fantasy and religion can coexist in storytelling.
• Jeff aims to communicate powerful truths through stories.
• C.S. Lewis's work greatly influenced Jeff.
• Jeff's writing journey began with storytelling to his kids.
• A sequel to 'Smoke and Mirrors' is in the works.

Chapters

• 00:00:00 Introduction to Jeff Maxam
• 00:03:00 The Story Behind 'Smoke and Mirrors'
• 00:09:00 Dragons and Their Significance
• 00:15:00 Jeff's Writing Journey
• 00:21:00 Impact of Realm Makers Aurora Contest
• 00:27:00 Fantasy and Faith in Storytelling
• 00:33:00 Future Projects and Closing Remarks

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In this episode of Bookworthy, children's author Allia Zobel Nolan discusses her latest picture book, 'Finding Harmony,' which explores themes of peace, friendship, and teamwork through the story of a kitten. The conversation delves into the importance of interactive storytelling, the role of prayer in children's lives, and the significance of reading and writing in personal development. Allia shares her insights on engaging children with literature and her future writing projects, emphasizing the need for hope and connection in today's world.

 Home - Allia Writes

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Takeaways

 Allia Zobel Nolan is passionate about children's literature and her cats.

The book 'Finding Harmony' teaches children about peace through a relatable story.

Interactive elements in children's books can enhance engagement and learning.

Teamwork and collaboration are essential themes in Allia's writing.

Prayer is presented as a valuable tool for children in various situations.

Reading is crucial for personal growth and understanding the world.

Allia values reader feedback, especially from children who enjoy her books.

Future projects include a devotional aimed at reconnecting with God.

Allia's writing process involves thinking from a child's perspective.

Humor and relatability are key components in Allia's storytelling.

Chapters

 00:00 Introduction to Finding Harmony

02:17 The Journey of Writing Finding Harmony

05:59 Interactive Elements in Children's Books

10:04 Key Messages for Children

17:16 The Importance of Prayer and Patience

19:53 Impactful Books and Writing Journey

23:31 Future Projects and Themes 

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In this episode of Bookworthy, Valerie interviews award-winning author Penny Reeve, who shares her journey as a children's author and the inspiration behind her Tanya Abbey series. They discuss the themes of faith, generosity, and the importance of role models in children's literature. Penny elaborates on her latest book, Camp Max, and how it addresses complex issues in a way that resonates with young readers. The conversation also touches on Penny's writing journey, her favorite books, and her upcoming projects.

 PENNY REEVE - home

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Takeaways

Penny Reeve emphasizes the importance of exploring faith in children's literature.

The Tanya Abbey series addresses real-world issues through the lens of a child's perspective.

Generosity can come with a cost, a theme explored in Camp Max.

Fiction can provide role models for children, helping them navigate their faith and actions.

Penny's writing is inspired by her own experiences and the need for relatable characters.

The impact of a single reader can motivate an author to continue writing.

Penny believes in the power of storytelling to influence young minds positively.

Her favorite books often tackle complex themes and encourage critical thinking.

Penny's journey as an author began with a desire to create better stories for children.

Upcoming projects include a literature unit for homeschoolers and a picture book addressing modern issues.

Chapters

 00:00 Introduction to Penny Reeve and Her Journey

02:35 Exploring the Tanya Abbey Series

07:50 Themes of Generosity and Faith in Camp Max

10:23 The Impact of Fiction on Young Readers

12:38 Penny's Writing Journey and Inspirations

16:30 Favorite Books and Their Influence

19:10 Upcoming Projects and Future Works

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In this episode of Book Worthy, Valerie interviews author Joshua Cooley about his latest book, Heroes of the Bible Devotional, Volume 2. They discuss the importance of lesser-known biblical characters, the role of humor in engaging children, and the empowering message of faith for kids. Joshua shares his journey from journalism to writing children's books and emphasizes the significance of every character in the Bible, encouraging kids to see themselves as heroes of faith.

Joshua Cooley | Josh Cooley

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Takeaways

The new devotional contains 90 devotions for kids aged 8 to 12.

The book explores lesser-known biblical characters to show their importance.

Humor is a key element in making biblical stories engaging for kids.

Every character in the Bible has significance in God's story.

Kids can relate to everyday characters rather than just prominent figures.

The goal is to empower kids to see themselves as heroes for God.

Joshua's background in journalism influences his writing style.

The importance of explaining complex theology in simple terms for children.

The series aims to remind kids that God sees their small actions as significant.

Future projects include an outer space-themed devotional and adult devotionals.

Chapters

 00:00 Introduction to Heroes of the Bible Devotional

02:10 Exploring Lesser-Known Biblical Characters

06:05 The Importance of Every Character in God's Story

08:50 Incorporating Humor in Devotions for Kids

10:41 Empowering Kids Through Biblical Heroes

14:08 The Journey from Journalism to Children's Author

21:37 Future Projects and Upcoming Books

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In this episode of Book Worthy, author Kirthana J. Fanning discusses her book 'The Girl with Her Noble Steed' and her passion for empowering young readers through Christian faith-based storytelling. She shares how her love for underdog stories and fairy tales inspired her to create a story about a young girl named Ophie who relies on her faith and courage to overcome challenges. Fanning also talks about the importance of including Christian elements and the Word of God in children's stories. She discusses her journey from television production to becoming a children's author and shares her favorite books and upcoming projects.

 A Girl and Her Noble Steed (affiliate link) 

Takeaways

 Author Kirthana J. Fanning is passionate about empowering young readers through Christian faith-based storytelling.

Her book 'The Girl with Her Noble Steed' is a heartwarming Christian fairy tale about a young girl named Ophie who relies on her faith and courage to overcome challenges.

Fanning believes in including Christian elements and the Word of God in children's stories to teach kids about faith, prayer, and the power of God's word.

She shares her journey from television production to becoming a children's author and how the pandemic played a role in shifting her career path.

Fanning's favorite books include 'The Pilgrim's Progress' and 'The Chronicles of Narnia', and she has upcoming projects, including a Christmas-themed book and more books in the 'Girl and her Noble steed' series.

Chapters

 00:00 Introduction: Empowering Young Readers Through Christian Storytelling

02:52 The Girl with Her Noble Steed: A Heartwarming Christian Fairy Tale

06:21 Including Christian Elements and the Word of God in Children's Stories

08:38 From Television Production to Children's Author: Kirthana J. Fanning's Journey

15:24 Favorite Books: 'The Pilgrim's Progress' and 'The Chronicles of Narnia'

16:46 Upcoming Projects: A Christmas Book and More in the 'Golden Noblesteed' Series

Christian Children Books and Stories | Kirthana.J.Fanning (kirthanajfanning.com)

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Eric and Meredith Schroedtenbauer discuss their latest book, 'This Special Blessing for You,' which is based on the Aaronic blessing found in Numbers 6:23-27. They share their inspiration for writing children's books that teach biblical context and the importance of asking the right questions. The couple also talks about their upcoming book, 'Good Night Noah Good Night Ark,' and where to find more information about their work.

Takeaways

Teaching children biblical context and the meaning behind verses can help make their faith more real and impactful.

Children's books can be a powerful tool for teaching and exploring faith.

As parents, it is important to shape our children's lives and help them understand their identity as children of God.

The art of storytelling, whether through music, art, or words, can bring the Bible to life and make it more relatable for children.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

02:36 About Eric and Meredith Schroedtenbauer

06:12 Inspiration behind 'This Special Blessing for You'

09:49 The Aaronic Blessing

12:42 Transition to Children's Book Authors

17:09 The Art of Storytelling

19:32 Impactful Books

24:26 Upcoming Book: 'Good Night Noah Good Night Ark'

26:33 Where to Find Eric and Meredith Schroedtenbauer

27:30 Conclusion

Eric & Meredith Schrotenboer (ericandmeredithschrotenboer.com)

Amazon.com: This Special Blessing for You: 9780310154761: Schrotenboer, Eric, Schrotenboer, Meredith, Hughes, Denise: Books

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In this Play it Again episode, Nancy Tupper-Ling discusses, Bless the Earth, which is a collection of poems for children to celebrate and care for the world, co-edited with bestselling anthologist June Cotner. The book features a variety of poetry styles and beautiful illustrations. Ling explains that poetry comes in and out of fashion, but it is making a comeback, especially with the inclusion of fun and joyful poems. The book aims to inspire children and families to appreciate and care for the Earth. Ling also shares her connection to nature and how it inspires her writing. She mentions that the book includes resources for poetry exercises and encourages readers to explore different types of poetry.

Bless the Earth Book (affiliate link)

Takeaways

 Bless the Earth is a poetry compilation for children that celebrates and encourages care for the world.

Poetry is making a comeback and is a powerful way to communicate big truths and emotions in a small moment.

Nature can be a source of inspiration and connection to God.

The book includes a variety of poetry styles and resources for poetry exercises.

Children's books, including poetry, can help children understand and navigate complex emotions and situations.

Chapters

 00:00 Introduction to Bless the Earth

02:29 The Collection of Poems

03:40 The Power and Variety of Poetry

06:01 Finding Inspiration in Nature

08:09 Exploring Different Poetry Styles

 Nancy Tupper Ling – Children’s Author and Poet

June Cotner

Bless the Earth: A Collection of Poetry for Children to Celebrate and Care for Our World: Cotner, June, Ling, Nancy Tupper, Song, Keum Jin: 9780593577660: Amazon.com: Books

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In this episode of the Bookworthy Podcast, Valerie talks with Sandra K Chambers, author of 'Maisy Discovers Her Fingerprints.' They explore the themes of uniqueness and acceptance through the character of Maisie, a dog who embarks on a journey to discover what makes her special. Sandra shares her inspiration behind the book, her writing journey, and the importance of instilling a biblical worldview in children. The conversation also touches on impactful books and the joys of being a grandparent.

Maisey Discovers her Fingerprints book (affiliate link)

Takeaways

Maisy is based on Sandra's real grandpuppy.

The book teaches children about their unique qualities.

Kids often feel left out and need reassurance of their worth.

The culture often misguides children about their identity.

Building a biblical worldview is crucial for children.

Sandra's writing journey began with a love for English.

The importance of teaching kids about God from an early age.

Books can evoke powerful memories and emotions.

Writing for children requires a different mindset than adult writing.

Grandparenting brings new opportunities for influence and love.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Maisy and Sandra's Journey

02:55 Maisy's Adventure at the Zoo

05:50 The Importance of Unique Identity

08:50 Lessons from Maisie's Fingerprints

11:50 Sandra's Writing Journey and Inspirations

14:47 Looking Ahead: Future Projects and Reflections

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In this episode of Bookworthy, Valerie interviews Kat Cronenberg, author of the 'Live Big' series. They discuss the inspiration behind Kat's books, her writing journey, and the importance of teaching children life skills through storytelling. Kat shares her experiences with animals and nature, and how these elements influence her work. The conversation highlights the impact of books on children's lives and the messages of hope and joy that resonate throughout her stories.

Live Big with Catch-M Book (affiliate link) 

Kat Kronenberg

Takeaways

Kat's books aim to help children learn life skills.

The inspiration for writing came from a desire to help others.

Animals and nature play a significant role in her storytelling.

The journey of writing is often filled with challenges and perseverance.

Books can provide hope and encouragement to children in difficult situations.

Kat's experiences with her children influenced her writing process.

The importance of community and support in pursuing dreams.

Ketchum, a character in her books, represents joy and positivity.

The impact of storytelling on personal growth and understanding.

Future projects include a workbook to help children internalize positive messages.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Kat and Her Books

02:01 The Journey of Writing and Inspiration

08:00 The Role of Animals and Nature in Storytelling

11:12 The Impact of Books on Children

18:25 Future Projects and Messages of Hope

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