BookWorthy

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Summary

 In this episode of Bookworthy, Valerie interviews author Phyllis Wheeler, who shares her journey from mechanical engineer to writer of award-winning time travel fantasy tales for children. They discuss her series, Guardians of Time, which follows the adventures of Jake and Ava as they navigate different historical periods to rescue their dog. Phyllis emphasizes the importance of exploring diverse histories, the inspiration behind her writing, and the educational resources she provides for homeschooling families. The conversation also touches on themes of faith and morality woven into her stories, as well as her future writing projects.

Takeaways

 Phyllis Wheeler has a diverse background in journalism and engineering.

The Guardians of Time series features unique historical settings.

Phyllis aims to inspire curiosity about history in children.

Writing for kids has been a lifelong passion for Phyllis.

Her writing style is influenced by her journalism training.

Phyllis incorporates real-life experiences into her stories.

The series encourages kids to explore different cultures and histories.

Phyllis provides educational resources for homeschooling families.

Faith and morality are subtly woven into her narratives.

Phyllis is currently working on the fourth book in her series.

Chapters

 00:00 Introduction to Phyllis Wheeler and Her Work

02:52 Exploring the Guardians of Time Series

06:01 Inspiration Behind the Settings and Characters

08:55 The Importance of Diverse Histories

11:54 Phyllis's Journey as a Writer

15:04 Educational Resources for Homeschooling

17:51 Themes of Faith and Morality in Writing

20:51 Looking Ahead: Future Projects

Phyllis Wheeler, Author - Phyllis Wheeler, Author

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Summary

 Debbie Burton, author of the Tales of Blueberry Street series, discusses her inspiration for the books and the messages she hopes to convey to children. The series follows the adventures of Buddy the Beagle and explores themes of perseverance, friendship, problem-solving, and caring for animals. Debbie also shares her love for children's books, including Dr. Seuss, and talks about her upcoming book, Manatee School. Listeners can find out more about Debbie and her books on her website, Debbie Burton Blog.

Takeaways

 The Tales of Blueberry Street series teaches important life lessons through the lovable character of Buddy the Beagle.

Debbie Burton's books explore themes of perseverance, friendship, problem-solving, and caring for animals.

Humor is an important element in children's books, as it helps engage young readers and makes difficult topics more approachable.

Debbie Burton's upcoming book, Manatee School, will teach children about manatees and the importance of caring for nature.

Readers can learn more about Debbie Burton and her books on her website, Debbie Burton Blog.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Tales of Blueberry Street and Buddy the Beagle

03:11 Inspiration for the Book Series

05:19 Themes of Perseverance, Friendship, and Problem-Solving

08:22 The Power of Humor in Children's Books

11:02 Favorite Children's Books and Impactful Reads

13:17 Upcoming Book: Manatee School

17:42 Finding More about Debbie Burton and Her Books

debbieburton.blog – …because stories are meant to be shared

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Summary

 In this episode of Bookworthy, Valerie interviews Emily Assell, a nurse educator and author of the Generation Claimed book series. They discuss Emily's latest book, 'When It Hurts,' which aims to help children navigate their emotions through a biblical perspective. The conversation explores the importance of addressing grief, equipping children with emotional understanding, and Emily's journey in writing and publishing. They also touch on Emily's upcoming projects, including a devotional for moms, emphasizing the need for spiritual nourishment in parenting.

Takeaways

 Emily's book series focuses on speaking God's word to children.

'When It Hurts' was inspired by personal loss and the need for emotional support.

Grief is a significant theme in the Bible, and it's important to express it.

Children's books serve dual audiences: kids and the adults reading to them.

God experiences emotions with us, providing comfort in our pain.

The importance of teaching children to express their feelings and seek God.

Emily's writing journey began with a desire to share God's promises.

Self-publishing led to a significant opportunity with Tyndale House Publishers.

The upcoming devotional for moms aims to provide quick, impactful spiritual nourishment.

Books can be a powerful tool for connecting with God and understanding His love.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Emily Ossol and Her Work

02:12 The Inspiration Behind 'When It Hurts'

06:20 Understanding Grief and Emotions in Children

09:03 Bringing Children to the Presence of God

14:02 Emily's Writing Journey

19:42 Impactful Books and Their Influence

23:58 Upcoming Projects and Future Books

Christian childrens books | Generation Claimed

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Summary

 In this episode of Book Worthy, Valerie interviews Laurie Christine, the author of the Dragon Slayer Bible series. Laurie discusses her passion for creating adventure-packed biblical fiction aimed at preteens, particularly boys. The conversation delves into the unique structure of her books, which combine storytelling with devotional elements, encouraging children to explore biblical truths. Laurie shares her journey to becoming an author, the impact of various books on her life, and her future projects, including a new book set in the time of Noah.

 Takeaways

Laurie's Dragon Slayer series aims to inspire kids to explore the Bible.

The series combines adventure with biblical truths and devotional elements.

Laurie's writing journey began in childhood but took a long detour before she returned to it.

The importance of distinguishing between fact and fiction in children's literature is emphasized.

Laurie's books encourage families to engage in deeper biblical discussions.

The character of Jesus is central to the message of the Dragon Slayer series.

Laurie's favorite books include classics like Chronicles of Narnia and Harry Potter.

The impact of a specific book on Lori's faith journey is profound and personal.

Lori's upcoming book will explore the time before the flood, featuring Noah's son, Shem.

The conversation highlights the importance of creativity and imagination in understanding biblical stories.

Chapters

 00:00 Introduction to the Dragon Slayer Series

02:37 Exploring the Dragon Slayer Story Structure

06:30 The Importance of Biblical Truth in Fiction

10:44 Lori's Journey to Becoming an Author

17:49 Impactful Books and Their Lessons

21:29 What's Next for Lori Christine?

Laurie Christine | Author, Podcaster, Raising Courageous Boys

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Summary

 Author Annette Whipple discusses her book 'Quirky Critter Devotions' and the inspiration behind it. She shares her favorite animals, including owls and fireflies, and highlights the unique characteristics of these creatures. Annette explains how her book aims to connect children with God's creations and foster curiosity and faith. She also discusses her Truth About series and the importance of nonfiction books in engaging young readers. Annette provides resources, such as question cards and teacher guides, to further explore the topics covered in her books.

Takeaways

 Animals are amazing creations of God and can inspire curiosity and faith.

Nonfiction books can make learning fun and engage young readers.

Connecting science and faith can deepen our understanding of God's creations.

Resources like question cards and teacher guides can enhance the learning experience.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to 'Quirky Critter Devotions'

03:08 Exploring Unusual Animals in 'Quirky Critters'

08:01 Connecting Science and Faith through Nature

12:04 Enhancing Learning with Resources: Question Cards and Teacher Guides

Annette Whipple, Nonfiction Children's Author and Speaker

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 Summary

 In this episode of Bookworthy, Valerie interviews award-winning author Trisha Goyer about her latest book, 'Wonders of the Ocean Realm.' They discuss the collaboration with marine biologist Sherry Sigelson, the importance of intertwining science and faith in children's literature, and how unique marine creatures can teach valuable life lessons. Trisha shares insights from her experience as a homeschooling mother of ten, emphasizing the significance of encouraging curiosity and fostering relationships in learning. The conversation also touches on Trisha's future projects and her passion for storytelling.

Takeaways

 Trisha Goyer has written over 30 books, including 'Wonders of the Ocean Realm.'

The book features five unique marine creatures to engage young readers.

Collaboration with marine biologist Sherry Sigelson brought scientific accuracy to the stories.

Trisha's experience as a homeschool mom influenced the book's vision.

The importance of intertwining science and faith is emphasized throughout the conversation.

Encouraging curiosity in children is vital for their learning and growth.

Unique marine creatures can teach children about their own uniqueness and purpose.

Relationships are essential for personal growth and understanding.

Trisha's future projects include a steampunk World War II fantasy series.

The conversation highlights the joy of storytelling and its impact on children's education.

Chapters

 00:00 Introduction to Trisha Goyer and Her Work

03:02 The Collaboration Behind Wonders of the Ocean Realm

06:02 The Importance of Science and Faith

08:54 Unique Marine Creatures and Their Lessons

12:01 Encouraging Curiosity in Children

14:50 The Role of Relationships in Learning

17:45 Future Projects and Closing Thoughts

 Homepage - Tricia Goyer

Wonders of the Ocean Realm (Marvels of the Wild): Goyer, Tricia, Seligson, Sherri, Stankovic, Vlad: 0031809146576: Amazon.com: Books

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Summary

In this episode, author Megan Schaulis discusses her YA duology, The Susa Chronicles. Book One, Protector, is inspired by the book of Esther and follows the story of Novalice, a brave heroine who becomes the king's bodyguard. Book Two, Proclaimer, is set to release in April. Megan shares how her faith and personal experiences influenced the writing of the series, emphasizing the importance of our relationship with God and the labels He gives us. She also discusses her love for YA literature and the impact it can have on young adults' journey of self-discovery and faith.

Takeaways

 The Susa Chronicles is a YA duology inspired by the book of Esther, with Book One, Protector, already released and Book Two, Proclaimer, set to release in April.

The series explores themes of faith, identity, and the importance of our relationship with God.

Megan emphasizes that our faith is our greatest advantage and that our identity is defined by God, not the labels the world gives us.

YA literature plays a significant role in helping young adults navigate their journey of self-discovery and faith.

Chapters

 00:00 Introduction to The Susa Chronicles

04:46 The Plot of Protector

09:21 The Power of Our Relationship with God

13:41 Megan's Journey as an Author

15:43 Favorite Books and Impactful Reads

21:31 What's Next for Megan

23:38 Conclusion

Megan Schaulis | Author, Young Adult Christian Fiction

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Summary

In this episode of the Bookworthy Podcast, host Valerie interviews author Candice Yamnitz about her latest YA novel, 'Untamed,' the second book in her Agatha C series. They discuss the themes of friendship, self-discovery, and the role of magic in the story. Candice shares her journey as a writer, her cultural influences, and the importance of representation in literature. The conversation also touches on the significance of YA literature in shaping young adults' lives and the upcoming projects Candice is working on.

Takeaways

 Candice's books explore themes of inadequacy and self-discovery.

The Agatha C series features a unique dual perspective.

Magic plays a significant role in character development.

Cultural representation is important in Candice's writing.

YA literature can address real-life issues in a fantastical context.

Candice aims to provide relatable characters for young readers.

The importance of friendship is highlighted in 'Untamed.'

Candice's writing is influenced by her Christian faith.

The journey of becoming an author can be unexpected.

Upcoming projects include a collaborative steampunk fantasy novel.

Chapters

 00:00 Introduction to Candice Yamnitz and Her Work

03:09 Exploring the Themes of 'Untamed'

06:09 The Role of Magic in the Agatha C Series

09:01 Cultural Influences in Candice's Writing

11:58 The Importance of YA Literature

15:09 Candice's Journey to Becoming an Author

18:08 Upcoming Projects and Collaborations

Homepage - Candice Yamnitz

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Summary

 Mark L. Redmond discusses his middle grade book, The Adventures of the Box M Gang, and his inspiration for writing about the Old West. He shares his favorite required reading book as an English teacher and the challenges he faced in getting his books published. Mark's goal is to provide young readers with an accurate portrayal of the Old West and to show how God worked in people's lives during that time. He also talks about his other book series and where readers can find his books.

Takeaways

The Adventures of the Box M Gang provides a glimpse into everyday life on a ranch in the Old West and the challenges faced by the five siblings who must run it on their own.

Mark L. Redmond aims to show young readers what the Old West was really like and to highlight the presence of God in people's lives during that time.

Mark emphasizes the importance of perseverance and thick skin for aspiring writers, sharing his own experiences of rejection and eventual success.

The Box M Gang series is just one of Mark's book series, and he continues to write and self-publish books in various genres.

Readers can find Mark's books on his website, as well as on platforms like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Walmart.

Chapters

 00:00 Introduction and Favorite Required Reading

01:47 Overview of The Adventures of the Box M Gang

04:31 Inspiration from the Old West

08:10 The Importance of Accurate History Education

11:04 Mark's Journey as an Author

12:01 Communicating Through Books

15:33 Lessons for Aspiring Writers

18:01 Favorite Books and Influences

19:22 Mark's Other Book Series

22:09 Where to Find Mark L. Redmond's Books

24:40 Conclusion

 Mark L. Redmond (marklredmond.com)

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Summary

In this episode, Valerie interviews author Courtney Siebring about her latest rhyming picture book, Everybody Wonderfully Made. The book takes a biblical worldview of gender and celebrates the diversity of bodies. Courtney discusses the importance of teaching children to love and appreciate their bodies and how the book provides a starting point for conversations about gender identity. She also shares resources available on the book's website to help parents navigate these discussions. Courtney talks about her journey as an author and her plans for future poetry projects. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of teaching children that they are all image bearers of God and that they are loved and valued.

Takeaways

 Everybody Wonderfully Made is a rhyming picture book that celebrates the diversity of bodies and teaches children to love and appreciate their own bodies.

The book provides a starting point for conversations about gender identity and encourages parents to have open and empathetic discussions with their children.

Resources are available on the book's website to help parents navigate these conversations and engage their children in activities related to the book's themes.

Courtney Siebring plans to continue writing poetry and exploring different topics through her writing.

Chapters

 00:00 Introduction to Everybody Wonderfully Made

02:09 The Biblical Worldview of Gender

06:43 Teaching Children about Being Made on Purpose

11:38 The Importance of Understanding and Expressing Feelings

14:14 Celebrating Ourselves as Image Bearers of God

19:06 Resources for Parents

23:15 Courtney's Future Poetry Projects

Every Body Wonderfully Made | Paraclete Press

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