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In this episode of Bookworthy, Valerie interviews author Karen Whiting, who shares her passion for helping families grow in faith through service. Karen discusses her 52-week devotional series designed for families, emphasizing hands-on activities and engaging discussions that cater to children of various ages. She reflects on the lasting impact of family devotions, the challenges faced in maintaining them, and the importance of making faith a priority in the home. Karen also shares insights on developing character in children and hints at her upcoming book on Biblical archaeology.

Download a free sample of Karen's Family Devotional here.

Takeaways

Karen Whiting aims to help families know Jesus and serve others.

The 52-week devotions are designed for families with children of all ages.

Engaging activities and discussions are key to keeping children interested in faith.

Family devotions can create lasting memories and strengthen bonds.

Using incentives, like dessert, can motivate children to participate in devotions.

Tailoring discussions to different age groups enhances understanding and engagement.

Making faith a priority at home is crucial for children's spiritual growth.

Children learn best through practical, hands-on experiences.

It's important to adapt devotionals to fit the family's lifestyle and needs.

Karen's upcoming book will explore Biblical archaeology and its connection to faith.

Chapters

 00:00 Introduction to Karen Whiting and Her Mission

02:05 Exploring the 52-Week Devotions for Families

05:25 Engaging Children in Family Devotions

09:38 The Lasting Impact of Family Devotions

12:41 Challenges in Family Devotion Time

16:40 Developing Faith and Character in Children

22:04 Upcoming Projects and Conclusion

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In this episode of Bookworthy, Valerie interviews YA author Lindsay Llewellyn about her latest book, The Cryer Stone, the sequel to The Chaos Grid. They discuss the inspiration behind the story, the character development, and the themes of adventure and forgiveness. Lindsay shares her journey as a writer, her experiences with dyslexia, and how she incorporates Christian elements into her fiction. The conversation also touches on the importance of engaging reluctant readers and the influence of other books on her writing.

Takeaways

 Lindsay's inspiration for The Cryer Stone came from Texas traffic.

The Cryer Stone explores themes of adventure and forgiveness.

Lindsay aims to provide an escape for young adult readers.

The story is inspired by the biblical book of Jonah.

Art and writing are intertwined in Lindsay's creative process.

Lindsay's writing journey began later in life due to dyslexia.

She wants her stories to be uplifting and relatable.

The Cryer Stone features more romance than its predecessor.

Engaging reluctant readers is crucial for fostering a love of reading.

Lindsay encourages parents to find books that match their children's interests.

Chapters

 00:00 Introduction to Lindsay Llewellen and The Cryer Stone

01:28 Exploring the World of The Cryer Stone

03:50 Character Development and Themes in The Cryer Stone

05:11 Inspiration and Message for Young Adults

06:43 Biblical Inspirations in The Cryer Stone

07:59 Artistic Elements and Comic Book Influence

09:36 Lindsay's Writing Journey and Overcoming Dyslexia

12:38 Incorporating Christian Elements in Fiction

15:21 Favorite Books and Influences

17:31 Encouraging Reluctant Readers

21:25 Future Projects and Conclusion

Lyndsey Lewellen - YA Author 📖

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In this episode of Bookworthy, Valerie interviews author Carol Baldwin about her young adult novel, Half Truths, which explores themes of social injustice and identity through the eyes of a 15-year-old girl in the 1950s South. Carol shares her writing journey, the inspiration behind her characters, and the importance of truth in family dynamics. The conversation delves into the historical context of the story, the writing process, and the hope for more conversations about race and identity among young readers.

Takeaways

 Carol Baldwin's book, Half Truths, addresses social injustice.

The writing process can take many years and revisions.

NaNoWriMo can be a great motivator for writers.

The main character, Kate, witnesses a KKK parade.

The story is set in the 1950s South, a pivotal time for civil rights.

Family secrets can have lasting effects on relationships.

The book aims to promote conversations about race.

Carol's writing journey began with nonfiction.

Joyce Moyer-Hossett inspired Carol to write her first draft.

The importance of being truth-speakers is a central theme. 

Chapters

 00:00 Introduction to Carol Baldwin and Half Truths

02:55 The Journey of Writing Half Truths

06:01 Exploring the Main Character and Setting

08:59 Themes of Social Injustice and Identity

11:52 The Importance of Truth in Family Dynamics

15:05 Carol's Writing Journey and Inspirations

18:02 Future Projects and Conclusion


Home - Carol Baldwin - Author, Teacher, Speaker

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In this episode of Bookworthy, Valerie interviews children's author Laura Sasse about her latest picture book, 'Faithful Feet.' The conversation explores the inspiration behind the book, the importance of rhyme in children's literature, and the lessons children can learn about faith and God's love. Laura shares her writing process, how she connects with kids during school visits, and her journey as an author. The episode concludes with a sneak peek into Laura's upcoming projects and her favorite children's books.

Takeaways

 Feet are a humorous and relatable theme for kids.

Rhyme can enhance children's engagement with literature.

The Bible tells a story of redemption and grace.

Children can learn about faith through fun metaphors.

God's faithfulness is evident in the writing journey.

Writing requires both creativity and business acumen.

Little House on the Prairie influenced Laura's love for reading.

Upcoming book 'Pumpkin Day for Boo and Belle' is exciting.

Engaging kids with stories can spark their curiosity about the Bible.

Laura's newsletter offers valuable resources for parents and educators.

Chapters

 00:00 Introduction to Faithful Feet

02:54 The Inspiration Behind Faithful Feet

06:01 The Role of Rhyme in Children's Literature

08:56 Lessons from Faithful Feet

11:57 God's Faithfulness in the Writing Journey

15:11 A Day in the Life of a Children's Author

18:55 Favorite Children's Books and Future Projects

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In this episode of Bookworthy, Valerie interviews Rebecca Galeskas about her picture book, 'Little Lion Puts on the Armor of God.' The conversation explores the inspiration behind the book, the deeper meanings of scripture, and the importance of conveying faith-based messages to children. Rebecca shares her journey as a writer, her literary influences, and what readers can expect next from her work.

Takeaways

 The book was inspired by Rebecca's son, Judah.

Rebecca emphasizes the importance of using scripture in daily life.

The story of Little Lion teaches children about the armor of God.

Rebecca aims to help children make a head-to-heart connection with God.

The writing process was a meditative practice for Rebecca.

Rebecca believes in the importance of understanding the bigger picture of the gospel.

The book communicates that God loves children for who they are.

Rebecca has always considered herself a writer since childhood.

The complexities of relationships are mirrored in classic literature.

Rebecca is working on a sequel about Little Lion and the Fruit of the Spirit.

Chapters

 00:00 Introduction to Little Lion

02:01 The Inspiration Behind the Book

05:10 Exploring the Armor of God

08:36 The Deeper Meaning of Scripture

11:12 Key Messages for Children

12:53 Rebecca's Journey as a Writer

17:08 Literary Influences and Favorites

20:23 What's Next for Rebecca Galeskas

Rebecca Galeskas | Christian Children's Books, Christian Apparel, Bible Study

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In this episode of Bookworthy, Valerie interviews YA fantasy author Katherine Briggs, who discusses her journey as a writer, the inspiration behind her books, and the themes explored in her duology, The Eternity Gate and The Immortal Abyss. Katherine shares insights on world-building, character development, and the importance of small actions in making a difference. The conversation also touches on the exploration of faith in her stories and her future writing projects.

Takeaways

 Katherine Briggs started writing at age three.

Her books focus on characters overcoming challenges.

World-building is a dynamic process for her.

She incorporates real-life inspirations into her fantasy worlds.

The theme of small actions making a difference is central to her work.

Katherine enjoys creating unique names for her characters.

She aims to explore faith without being overtly religious.

Katherine's writing journey has included breaks but has been consistent overall.

She is currently working on two semi-secret projects.

Katherine values connecting with her readers through her newsletter.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Katherine Briggs and Her Works

02:54 Inspiration Behind the Stories

06:00 World Building and Character Development

08:59 Themes of Choice and Identity

11:48 Exploring Faith in Fantasy

15:02 Katherine's Writing Journey and Future Projects

Katherine Briggs | Official Website of Katherine Briggs

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In this episode of Bookworthy, Valerie interviews fantasy author Bryan Davis about his latest series, Dragons of Camelot. They discuss the evolution of his storytelling, the importance of faith in his works, and how fantasy literature resonates with young readers. Brian shares insights into his writing journey, the influence of King Arthur on his stories, and the significance of prayer in the lives of young people. He also reflects on the impactful books that have shaped his perspective and hints at future projects.

Takeaways

Bryan Davis has a long history with dragon-themed stories.

The Dragons of Camelot series targets younger readers aged 8-12.

Faith is a central theme in Brian's storytelling.

Fantasy allows for larger-than-life characters that inspire young readers.

Bryan's writing journey began with a collaboration with his children.

Prayer is portrayed as a simple conversation with God in his books.

Bryan emphasizes the importance of mercy and forgiveness in his narratives.

The influence of King Arthur's stories is significant in Bryan's work.

Fantasy literature can help children face real-life challenges.

Bryan plans to continue writing and expanding his series. 

Chapters

 00:00 Introduction to Bryan Davis and His New Series

03:02 The Evolution of Dragons of Camelot

05:59 Faith as a Central Theme in Storytelling

09:02 The Impact of Fantasy on Young Readers

12:00 The Influence of King Arthur on Bryan's Writing

14:58 The Importance of Prayer in Young Lives

18:06 The Journey to Becoming a Writer

21:08 Books That Shaped Brian's Perspective

24:07 Looking Ahead: Future Projects

Bryan Davis - author - official site

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In this episode of Bookworthy, Valerie speaks with author Maria Antonia about her new children's book, 'Barnaby the Runaway Sheep.' They discuss the inspiration behind the story, the writing process, and the important lessons for children about trust and guidance from their 'shepherds' in life. Maria shares her experiences growing up and how they influenced her storytelling, as well as her future writing projects.

Takeaways

 Summer was a time for reading and family visits.

Barnaby's story is inspired by a real sheep named Shrek.

The writing process involves letting ideas percolate.

Children should learn to trust their shepherds in life.

The illustrations in Barnaby beautifully capture his character.

Fear can be a part of growth and learning.

Storytelling allows for deeper lessons to be shared.

Maria is working on middle grade novels and other projects.

The activity guide for Barnaby includes fun games for kids.

Maria's website offers free resources and newsletters.

Chapters

 00:00 Summer Reflections and Family Connections

03:05 The Inspiration Behind Barnaby the Runaway Sheep

11:51 The Journey of Writing and Creating Barnaby

18:41 Lessons from Barnaby: Trusting Your Shepherds

19:48 What's Next for Maria Antonia?

Maria Antonia | children's picture book author

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Kristen Puma discusses her book 'Abby and Liam and the Bedtime Adventure' and the importance of fostering imagination and creativity in children. The book follows siblings Abby and Liam as they turn their bedtime routine into an exciting adventure. Kristen emphasizes the value of spending quality time with children and creating warm and wonderful memories. She also shares her own writing journey and the impact of books like Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings. Kristen reveals that the series will continue with 'Abby and Liam and the Snowball Adventure' set to be released soon.

Takeaways

 Foster imagination and creativity in children by turning ordinary tasks into exciting adventures.

Spend quality time with children during bedtime routines to create warm and wonderful memories.

Books like Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings can have a lasting impact on readers.

The Abby and Liam series will continue with 'Abby and Liam and the Snowball Adventure'.

Chapters

 00:00 Introduction and Random Question

02:00 Overview of 'Abby and Liam and the Bedtime Adventure'

03:37 Importance of Bedtime Routines and Quality Time

05:31 Inspiration for Making Bedtime an Adventure

08:30 The Message of the Abby and Liam Series

11:06 The Impact of Bedtime Conversations

14:22 Kristen's Writing Journey

16:11 Most Impactful Books in Kristen's Life

18:49 What's Next for Kristen

19:57 Conclusion

Imagine More at the Official Written By Kristen Website - Written By Kristen (authorwrittenbykristen.com)

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In this episode of Bookworthy, Valerie interviews author Becca Wierwille about her latest book, Road Trip Redemption, the third installment in her middle-grade trilogy. The conversation delves into the themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the impact of bullying, as well as Becca's writing journey and her decision to self-publish. They also discuss the importance of children's literature in addressing complex emotions and experiences, and Becca shares her favorite children's books and upcoming projects.

Takeaways

Jada's story explores themes of forgiveness and redemption.

All characters have their own journeys of growth.

The impact of bullying is a central theme in the book.

Empathy is crucial in understanding others' actions.

Writing can be a way to process personal experiences.

Self-publishing allows for creative control and timely releases.

Children's literature can address complex emotional themes.

Books can help kids see their worth and value.

The importance of prayer and empathy in parenting.

Becca's writing journey began with a love for storytelling.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Road Trip Redemption

03:00 Exploring Jada's Redemption Story

06:01 Themes of Forgiveness and Growth

08:58 The Impact of Bullying and Empathy

12:02 Writing Journey and Self-Publishing

18:02 Favorite Children's Books and Future Projects



Check out more about Becca Wierwille on her website below:
Home - Beloved Chronicles

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