Send us Fan Mail

Help BookWorthy make plans and know how to serve your best by filling out the 2026 Listener survey. Click the link, answer 10 questions. I can't wait to hear what you have to say. 

Full Transcripts available at http://www.valeriefentress.com/blog

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

Join the BookWorthy Summer Reading Challenge Here

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

Listener Survey invitation

Let's discover great books together!

Follow for more:
FB: @bookworthypodcast
Instagram: @bookworthy_podcast
YouTube:  BookWorthy Podcast - YouTube
tiktok: @valeriefentress