Episodes

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    Summary

    In this episode, Valerie interviews Dominique Okonkwo, the author of the rhyming picture book 'No Greater Love.' They discuss Dominique's inspiration for the book, the challenges of explaining God's love to children, and the importance of faith-based stories for kids. Dominique also shares her writing journey and her plans for future books. Overall, the conversation highlights the power of storytelling to teach and entertain children while reinforcing biblical truths.

    Takeaways

    Children's books can be a powerful tool to teach and reinforce biblical truths.

    Explaining abstract concepts like God's love to children can be challenging but important.

    Writing can be a therapeutic and fulfilling creative outlet.

    There is a growing appreciation for creativity and the arts in our culture.

    Personal experiences and questions from children can inspire and shape the stories we write.

    It's important to pursue the things that God puts on our hearts, even if they don't fit traditional career paths.

    Favorite books from childhood can have a lasting impact and be enjoyed across generations.

    Children's books have evolved to cater to shorter attention spans, but there is still value in longer, meatier stories.

    Devotionals and journals can be valuable tools for personal growth and connecting with God's word.

    Writing stories that engage children's questions and interests can help them connect with biblical truths.

    There is a need for diverse children's books that highlight different cultures and experiences.

    Social media and websites are valuable platforms for connecting with readers and promoting books.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Favorite Pie

    03:05 Teaching Children About God's Love

    06:20 Inspiration and Questions from Children

    10:58 Dominique's Writing Journey

    12:56 Favorite Books and Impact

    15:25 Evolution of Children's Books

    23:24 Connecting with Dominique and Conclusion

    Writer Portfolio | Dominique Okonkwo | Miami Motherhood

    Amazon.com: No Greater Love: A Celebration of How High, How Deep, and How Wide God’s Love is for His Children: 9781640609310: Okonkwo, Dominique, Morena, Lhaiza: Books

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    Summary

    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.

    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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    Summary

    In this episode, Valerie interviews Rachael Hartzell, the author of the picture book series 'The Garden Scouts.' They discuss Rachael's favorite bugs and bug encounters, as well as the lessons we can learn from bugs.

    Rachael shares the inspiration behind her book series and how she teaches the fruits of the spirit through her stories. They also talk about scouting, different cultures, and the impact of books on education. Rachael shares her journey as an author and her plans for future books. You can find Rachel on Instagram at Rachael.Hartzel.

    Takeaways

    Bugs can teach us about God's intricate design and the importance of details.

    Rachael's book series, 'The Garden Scouts,' teaches children about the fruits of the spirit in a relatable and practical way.

    Rachel chose a fly as the main character to show that even the 'uglier' parts of life can have beauty and redemption.

    Teaching from Rest by Sarah McKenzie and Babushka Baba Yaga by Patricia Palacco are impactful books for homeschooling and a passion for children's literature, respectively.

    Rachael is self-publishing her books and is focused on promoting her first book while working on the manuscript for the second book.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Favorite Bugs

    02:19 Bug Encounters

    06:15 Lessons from Bugs

    08:15 The Garden Scouts, Buzzing with Love

    12:05 Teaching the Fruits of the Spirit

    15:12 Scouting and Cultures

    16:29 Choosing a Fly as the Main Character

    18:48 The Next Book and Fruits of the Spirit

    21:18 Rachael's Journey as an Author

    23:26 Education and Homeschooling

    28:07 Most Impactful Book

    31:26 Future Plans

    33:33 Where to Find Rachael

    34:16 Conclusion

    Little Honeycomb Press

    The Garden Scouts: Buzzing With Love - Kindle edition by Hartzell, Rachael, Wills, Sarah-Leigh. Children Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.

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    Summary

    In this episode of the Bookworthy Podcast, host Valerie interviews author Jennifer Bosma about her latest children's book, 'God is Three in One.' The conversation explores the inspiration behind the book, the challenges of explaining the Trinity to children, and the importance of faith-based literature. Jennifer shares her journey to becoming an author, her plans, and insights from her podcast, emphasizing the need for Christian principles in parenting and education.

    Takeaways

    Jennifer Bosma's book simplifies the complex concept of the Trinity for children.

    The inspiration for the book came from a conversation with her granddaughter.

    Writing in rhyme helped convey the message of the Trinity in an engaging way.

    The book includes a salvation prayer and further study resources for deeper understanding.

    Jennifer emphasizes the importance of teaching Christian principles at home.

    Her journey to becoming an author began in fourth grade with a manuscript.

    The Bible is Jennifer's favorite book, providing peace and guidance.

    Jennifer's podcast aims to support and encourage women and mothers.

    The illustrations in the book were a collaborative effort with a talented artist.

    Future plans include more books and continued podcasting to reach families.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Jennifer Bosma and Her Book

    02:25 Inspiration Behind 'God is Three in One'

    05:08 The Complexity of the Trinity Made Simple

    09:30 Further Study and Salvation's Prayer

    16:24 Jennifer's Journey to Becoming an Author

    22:10 Future Plans and Podcast Insights

    Jennifer Bosma | Christian Children's Book Author & Blogger

    God is Three in One: Jennifer Bosma: 9781637972281: Amazon.com: Books Front

    Parking Spot Podcast — Jennifer Bosma

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    Summary

    In this episode, Healey Ikerd discusses her book, The Red Ball, and its inspiration. She shares the importance of faith and forgiveness in the story and how it teaches children valuable life lessons. Healey also talks about the impact of different lifestyles and the need for books on forgiveness. She shares her journey as an author and her upcoming projects. You can find Healey and her books on her website, writtenbyhealy.com.

    Takeaways

    The Red Ball teaches children about faith, forgiveness, and kindness.

    Books are a great tool for teaching children important life lessons.

    Different lifestyles and cultures can be understood and appreciated through books.

    Forgiveness is a powerful concept that can bring healing and freedom.

    Healy Ikerd has written other books for both children and adults.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to The Red Ball

    02:23 The Inspiration Behind The Red Ball

    04:02 The Themes of The Red Ball

    05:01 The Importance of Faith in The Red Ball

    06:37 Understanding Different Lifestyles

    07:41 Comparing Lifestyles

    08:46 The Message of The Red Ball

    09:57 Teaching Forgiveness and Kindness

    10:57 The Power of Forgiveness

    12:06 The Impact of Emotions on Children

    13:14 The Need for Books on Forgiveness

    14:20 The Importance of Books in Parenting

    16:08 Healy's Other Books

    21:27 The Most Impactful Book in Healy's Life

    24:06 Upcoming Projects

    26:39 Where to Find Healy and Her Books

    27:30 Conclusion

    Written by Healey - Home

    Amazon.com: The Red Ball: A Story of Friendship and Forgiveness: 9798989944705: Ikerd, Healey E: Books

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    Summary

    Maryna Doughty tells us about her middle-grade book Sincerely Diary, which explores friendships and relationships in middle school. She shares her inspiration for the book, including her own experiences with betrayal and deception. Maryna also talks about the devotional resource accompanying the book, which covers topics such as self-acceptance, peer pressure, and forgiveness. She emphasizes the importance of honesty and discernment for young readers. Maryna discusses her journey as an author and her favorite books. She also gives a sneak peek of her upcoming book, Confessions of a Stepsister. Listeners can find more information about Marina and her books on her website.

    Takeaways

    Sincerely Diary is a middle-grade book that explores friendships and relationships in middle school.

    The book addresses important topics such as self-acceptance, peer pressure, and deception.

    A devotional resource accompanies the book, providing biblical perspectives on friendship, honesty, and forgiveness.

    Marina Doughty's upcoming book, Confessions of a Stepsister, delves into themes of sabotage, forgiveness, and identity.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Middle School Experience

    02:03 Understanding Friendships and Relationships

    03:09 Inspiration for the Book

    05:07 The Devotional Resource

    07:45 The Relevance of the Book for Young Readers

    11:16 Lessons and Themes in the Book

    15:40 Becoming an Author and Favorite Books

    19:48 Upcoming Book: Confessions of a Stepsister

    22:49 Release Date and Where to Find More Information

    24:21 Conclusion


    About Me | Maryna Doughty

    Sincerely, Diary: A middle grade magical realism novel: Doughty, Maryna, Yang, Kaitlin: 9798989035915: Amazon.com: Books

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    Summary

    Abbi Lee, author of Geocache Club, Ghost Town Treasure Hunt, discusses her book and the concept of geocaching. Geocaching is a modern-day treasure-hunting activity where participants hide and find containers, called geocaches, using GPS coordinates. Abbi shares her personal experiences with geocaching and explains the different types of geocaches. She also talks about the inspiration behind her book and how it incorporates themes of friendship, history, and dealing with change. Abbi discusses her journey as an author and her favorite books. She also gives a sneak peek into the upcoming books in the Geocache Club series.

    Takeaways

    Geocaching is a modern-day treasure-hunting activity where participants hide and find containers using GPS coordinates.

    The Geocache Club book series explores themes of friendship, history, and dealing with change.

    Abbi Lee drew inspiration from the story of Forrest Finn, who hid a treasure chest in the Rocky Mountains and combined it with her love for geocaching.

    The books in the Geocache Club series aim to encourage kids to explore their towns, discover hidden gems, and appreciate history.

    Abbi Lee is currently working on the second and third books in the Geocache Club series.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Geocache Club and Abbi Lee

    03:36 Friendship, History, and Change in Geocache Club

    04:55 Inspiration and Kansas in Geocache Club

    05:23 The Journey of an Author: Abbi Lee

    09:05 Favorite Books and Impactful Reads

    12:05 What's Next in the Geocache Club Series?

    Abbi Lee Books – Children's Author (wordpress.com)

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    Summary
    In this episode of Bookworthy, Valerie interviews Amanda Cleary Eastep, author of the Tree Street Kids series. Amanda shares her inspiration for her recent trip to India and how it influenced her writing. She discusses the fifth book in the series, The Beastie of Brambly Bald, and the themes of family dynamics and curiosity that are explored. Amanda also talks about engaging middle-grade readers and the importance of playfulness and humor in children's literature. She shares her favorite books, To Kill a Mockingbird and A Wrinkle in Time, and the impact they had on her. Finally, Amanda discusses her future projects and where to find more information about her and her books.

    Takeaways
    Travel experiences can inspire and influence writing.
    Engaging middle-grade readers requires playfulness and curiosity.
    Children's literature should explore themes of family dynamics and different perspectives.
    Books have the power to impact and inspire readers.
    Future projects include continuing the Tree Street Kids series and exploring new adventures.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Random Question
    01:25 Inspiration for Trip to India
    03:40 Inspiration for Book: The Beastie of Brambly Bald
    07:05 Engaging Middle Grade Readers
    10:27 Writing Playful and Curious Stories
    15:07 Themes in The Beastie of Brambly Bald
    17:01 Exploring Relationships and Different Perspectives
    18:26 Favorite Books: To Kill a Mockingbird and A Wrinkle in Time
    21:36 Impact of Books and Writing
    23:36 Future Projects
    25:03 Where to Find More Information
    26:00 Conclusion



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    Summary

    Carolyn Leiloglou discusses her middle-grade series, The Restorationists, and the inspiration behind it. The series takes place in a world where art is powerful and paintings are portals. The first book, Beneath This Rolling Sky, follows Vincent as he discovers his family's role as Restorationists and tries to protect his sister. The second book, Between Flowers and Bones, shifts to Georgia's perspective as she grapples with her own insecurities and learns the value of her unique gifts. Carolyn shares her own journey as a writer and the impact of books like The Chronicles of Narnia. She also emphasizes the importance of creativity and encourages kids to embrace their own creative abilities.

    Takeaways

    The Restorationists is a middle-grade series that explores a world where art is powerful and paintings are portals.

    The first book, Beneath This Rolling Sky, follows Vincent as he discovers his family's role as Restorationists and tries to protect his sister.

    The second book, Between Flowers and Bones, shifts to Georgia's perspective as she grapples with her own insecurities and learns the value of her unique gifts.

    Carolyn emphasizes the importance of creativity and encourages kids to embrace their own creative abilities.

    Books like The Chronicles of Narnia have had a profound impact on Carolyn's life and inspired her own writing journey.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Random Question

    03:00 The Restorationists: A Middle-Grade Adventure

    08:02 Embracing Creativity: Lessons from The Restorationists

    11:46 The Power of Art: Inspiration and Impact

    21:37 Future of The Restorationists and Where to Find Carolyn

    Home - Carolyn Leiloglou

    Amazon.com: Between Flowers and Bones (The Restorationists): 9780593579572: Leiloglou, Carolyn, To, Vivienne: Books

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    Summary
    In this bonus episode, Valerie interviews several contributors to the Go Bible project, including author Amy Parker. They discuss their favorite Bible stories, the importance of the Go Bible project, and their motivation to read the Bible. The Go Bible is a comprehensive resource for children that includes color illustrations, special pages with activities and devotional stories, and memory verses. The contributors emphasize the power of the Word of God and the transformative impact it can have on children's lives.

    00:30- Amy Parker
    01:45- Amy Parker's Favorite Bible Story
    07:30- Amy Parker's Joy in working on the Go: Bible's Special Pages and Highlighted Bible Verses
    14:07- Joshua Cooley ( Interview about Joshua's Book Can't Believe my Eyes )
    14:27- Joshua's Favorite Bible Story
    17:57- Joshua Cooley Intentional added to a team that work on the Introductions to each book of the Bible.
    21:18 - Tama Fortner ( Interview about Tama's book God I Feel Scared)
    21:46 - Tama's Favorite Bible Story
    25:14 - Tama added to the Know and Grow Sections of the Go: Bible
    29:14 - Jesse Florea
    30:12 - Jesse Florea's Favorite Bible Story
    36:26- Jesse Florea added his love of God's word to the Introduction sections of each book of the Bible as well as a Seek and Find Challenge
    40:45 - Xochitl Dixon (Interview about Xochitl's books What Color is God's Love )
    41:21 -Xochitl Dixon's favorite Bible Story
    47:41 -Xochitl added her love and wisdom to the Choose to Change elements of the Go Bible
    51:01- Conclusion

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    Summary

    In this episode, Valerie interviews John Hendrix, a New York Times bestselling illustrator and author of children's books. They discuss his latest book, 'The Mythmakers,' which explores the friendship between C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien and their impact on storytelling and literature. They also talk about the power of myth and fantasy, the complexities of friendship, and the importance of community for artists. John shares his advice for parents of creative children and gives a sneak peek into his upcoming projects.

    Takeaways

    The Mythmakers explores the friendship between C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien and their influence on storytelling and literature.

    Myth and fantasy have the power to convey truth and engage readers of all backgrounds.

    Friendship can be complex, and it's important to have mutual respect and love even when disagreements arise.

    Artists should embrace their interests and create work that is interesting and engaging, regardless of whether it is explicitly faith-based.

    Encourage children's creativity by providing them with art supplies and opportunities to practice and share their work.

    Art doesn't have to be perfect; it's about the process and expression.

    Community is essential for artists, and being part of a supportive creative community can enhance one's work.

    John Hendrix has upcoming projects, including the release of The Mythmakers and a follow-up to his book Drawing is Magic.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Overview

    04:47 The Power of Myth and Fantasy in Storytelling

    12:45 Navigating the Complexities of Friendship

    23:30 Encouraging Children's Artistic Journey

    28:13 Upcoming Projects: 'The Mythmakers' and More

    Keywords

    John Hendrix, illustrator, author, children's books, The Mythmakers, C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, friendship, storytelling, literature, myth, fantasy, art, community, creativity, parents, advice

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    Summary

    In this Replay from Season Two of the Bookworthy podcast, Valerie Fentress interviews Anna Cook, the author of Brynn and Amir in the Magical Map. They discuss Anna's favorite thing about winter, her age and accomplishments as a 15-year-old published author, and the challenges she faced while writing the book. Anna shares the inspiration behind the story and how her faith has grown throughout the writing process. They also talk about the unlikely partnership between the main characters, Brynn and Amir, and the message Anna hopes kids will take away from the book. Anna reveals her plans for future books in the series and her dream travel destination. Overall, the conversation highlights Anna's passion for writing and her desire to inspire young readers.

    Takeaways

    Anna Cook, a 15-year-old author, shares her experience of writing and publishing her debut book, Brynn and Amir in the Magical Map.

    The book follows the adventures of Brynn and Amir as they discover a magical map that takes them to different countries, starting with Mexico.

    Anna hopes that kids will be inspired to make a difference and be open-minded about other cultures after reading her book.

    She plans to continue the series and take Brynn and Amir on more adventures to different countries.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction

    00:39 Favorite Thing About Winter

    01:22 Not a Fan of Winter

    01:48 Age and Accomplishments

    02:33 Supportive Classmates

    03:02 Inspiration to Write

    03:50 Faith and Writing

    04:43 Challenges of Writing a Book

    05:40 Building Confidence

    06:09 The Story of Brynn and Amir in the Magical Map

    07:19 Choosing Mexico as the Setting

    08:16 Unlikely Partners

    09:01 Balancing Each Other Out

    09:33 Impactful Books

    10:03 Favorite and Most Impactful Books

    11:04 Dreams of Becoming an Author

    13:38 Childhood Career Aspirations

    15:51 Favorite Children's Books

    16:44 Message of Brendan Amir in the Magical Map

    18:01 Future Plans for the Series

    18:35 Dream Travel Destination

    19:44 Where to Find More About Anna and Her Books

    20:12 Conclusion

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    Summary

    In this episode of the Bookworthy Podcast, Valerie Fentress interviews author Becca Wierwelle about her middle-grade adventure book, 'Road Trip Rescue.' They discuss their favorite road trips, the inspiration behind the book, and the importance of embracing differences. Bekah shares her journey to becoming an author and how she finds story ideas. They also talk about impactful books and the messages Bekah hopes to communicate to kids through her writing. The episode concludes with a discussion about future road trip plans.

    Takeaways

    Embrace the differences that make you unique and extraordinary.

    Children's books have a special place in our hearts and can shape us during our formative years.

    Writing can be a way to process childhood experiences and emotions.

    Asking 'why' and observing the world around you can lead to creative story ideas.

    Reading to children is a great way to bond and introduce them to the joy of books.

    Road trips can be a source of inspiration for writing and personal growth.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Favorite Road Trips

    01:48 Introduction to 'Road Trip Rescue' and Kimmy's Journey

    03:12 Inspiration for the Book and Writing About Personal Struggles

    05:34 Writing for Children and Embracing Differences

    08:29 Becoming an Author and Writing for Kids

    11:55 Finding Story Ideas and Asking 'Why'

    13:14 Favorite Books and Impactful Reads

    14:45 Reading to Children and Impactful Books

    17:18 Writing the Sequel and Road Trip to Guatemala

    19:38 Themes in 'Road Trip Rescue' and Messages for Kids

    20:43 Where to Find More About Becca's Books

    21:27 Road Trip Plans

    22:32 Conclusion

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    Join Valerie Fentress as she chats with Illustrator and Author couple Liz and Jack Hagler.

    We talk about their book series Patrick Wigglesworth's Bizarre Bible Tales, a graphic novel for fans of Dogman and Captain Underpants, but with a Christian worldview.

    Find out more about Liz, Jack, and Patrick on the links below.

    Happy Reading!

    Bizarre Bible Adventure (patrickwigglesworth.com)

    Amazon.com: Dangerous Dilemmas (Patrick Wigglesworth’s Bizarre Bible Adventure): 0031809133569: Hagler, Liz, Hagler, Jack: Books

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    Summary

    In this episode of the Bookworthy Podcast, Valerie Fentress interviews JJ Levan, the author of the picture book 'He Made You to Be You.' They discuss JJ's inspiration for writing the book, which focuses on a neurodiverse child and their exploration of their day. They also talk about the importance of normalizing neurodivergent experiences and the challenges faced by families with neurodivergent children. JJ shares her personal journey as a parent of a child with autism and offers advice for parents facing a new autism diagnosis. She also discusses her upcoming project, 'We Saw Mice,' which aims to promote understanding and acceptance of disabilities. Throughout the conversation, JJ emphasizes the importance of trusting in God and finding beauty in the midst of challenges.

    Takeaways

    The book 'He Made You to Be You' explores the experiences of a neurodiverse child and emphasizes the message that God is with them and loves them unconditionally.
    Parents of neurodivergent children often struggle to find books that address their child's unique experiences. JJ Levan wrote the book she couldn't find, aiming to provide support and understanding for families in similar situations.
    Acceptance and trust in God are crucial for parents facing a new autism diagnosis. It is important to remember that God hears and sees them, and he loves their child.
    JJ Levan's upcoming project, 'We Saw Mice,' aims to promote awareness and acceptance of disabilities, particularly among children. The book will encourage readers to believe that friends with challenges can shine every day.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Favorite Things About Spring
    03:10 Introduction to the Book 'He Made You to Be You'
    08:21 Inspiration Behind Writing the Book
    11:41 Supporting Neurodivergent Children and Siblings
    16:23 Advice for Parents Facing a New Autism Diagnosis
    20:04 JJ's Journey to Becoming an Author
    23:49 The Most Impactful Book in JJ's Life
    26:12 Upcoming Project: 'We Saw Mice'
    28:10 Where to Find More Information about JJ and Her Books

    Find out more about JJ LeVan and her book on the links below.

    J. J. LeVan | Autism (jjlevan.com)

    He Meant You to Be You - Kindle edition by LeVan, J. J. , Newton, James. Children Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.

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    Repost from 10/18/2023

    Summary
    In this episode of the Bookworthy Podcast, Valerie Fentress interviews Laura Sasse, the author of the Tender Heart Prayer Book. They discuss various topics related to prayer and children's literature. The conversation covers fall activities, the inspiration behind the Tender Heart Prayer Book, the importance of prayer throughout the day, teaching children to pray in everyday moments, expressing gratitude in prayer, and more. Laura shares insights into her writing journey and recommends her favorite adult and children's books. She also reveals her upcoming book, My Tender Heart Devotions. Overall, the conversation highlights the significance of prayer in children's lives and provides practical tips for incorporating prayer into daily routines.

    Takeaways
    -Prayer is not limited to specific times of the day but can be incorporated into everyday moments.
    -Teaching children to pray in everyday situations helps them develop a habit of constant communication with God.
    -Expressing gratitude in prayer helps children recognize and appreciate God's blessings.
    -Writing prayers for children can deepen the author's own prayer life and provide a meaningful quiet time.
    -Books that combine words and illustrations can engage young children in prayer and help them understand abstract concepts.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Welcome
    00:54 Discussion about Fall Activities
    01:58 Inspiration for the Tender Heart Prayer Book
    03:14 Importance of Prayer Throughout the Day
    04:03 Impact of Writing Prayers for Children on the Author's Prayer Life
    05:08 Teaching Children to Pray in Everyday Moments
    06:22 Encouraging Children to Pray for Others
    07:01 Incorporating Prayer into Daily Routines
    08:05 Using Prayer to Reset and Calm Emotions
    09:36 Expressing Gratitude in Prayer
    11:20 Author's Writing Journey
    12:34 Favorite Adult Book (Other than the Bible)
    14:17 Favorite Children's Book (Other than the Author's Own)
    15:14 Upcoming Book: My Tender Heart Devotions
    17:54 Where to Find More Information about the Author
    19:21 Conclusion and Farewell

    Laura Sassi Tales – Children's author and speaker spreading messages of hope and joy one story at a time (wordpress.com)

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    Join Valerie Fentress as she chats with Kelli McKinney about her middle-grade novel Jeff Pennant's Field Guide to Happy Parents.

    We talk about video games, understanding our pre-teens, and all the books that inspire us.

    Find out more about Kelli at her website and find a link to her book below.

    Happy Reading!

    Home - Kelli McKinney

    Jeff Pennant's Field Guide To Raising Happy Parents: McKinney, Kelli: 9781953743183: Amazon.com: Books

    Let's discover great books together!

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    Let's discover great books together!

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

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    Summary

    In this episode, Valerie interviews award-winning author Aliyah Zobel Nolan about her latest book, 'Harriet, Hurry Up and the So Slow Day.' They discuss Aliyah's experiences in school, her love for poetry, and the inspiration behind her book on patience. They also talk about the importance of waiting, the impact of technology on children, and the power of reading and creativity. Aliyah shares her upcoming projects, including two cat books and a personal memoir. The episode ends with a contest announcement for a Harriet doll giveaway.

    Takeaways

    Patience is a virtue that can be learned through trust in God's timing.

    Children need opportunities to be still, explore, and let their minds wander.

    Reading and engaging with books can foster creativity and imagination in children.

    Technology can hinder children's ability to interact with the world and ask questions.

    Illustrations in children's books play an important role in engaging young readers.

    Upcoming projects from Aliyah Zobel Nolan include two cat books and a personal memoir.

    A contest will be held to give away a Harriet doll.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Overview

    04:11 The Power of Reading and Poetry

    07:56 The Inspiration Behind 'Harriet, Hurry Up and the So Slow Day'

    09:53 The Impact of Technology on Children

    12:15 The Importance of Boredom and Creativity

    23:58 The Most Impactful Book in Aliyah's Life

    26:22 Upcoming Projects and Contest Announcement

    32:07 Conclusion

    Let's discover great books together!

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    Instagram: @bookworthy_podcast
    YouTube: BookWorthy Podcast - YouTube
    tiktok: @valeriefentress

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    Summary

    Elizabeth James, author of the Pippa Potter series, discusses her inspiration behind the books and the research she conducted on the White House. She also shares her experience illustrating the books and how she addresses anxiety in the stories. Elizabeth talks about her writing journey and her favorite books. She concludes by discussing her future projects and where to find her online.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Background

    03:07 Inspiration behind Pippa Potter

    06:25 Researching the White House

    09:44 Reception of the Books

    11:46 Illustrating the Books

    15:55 Addressing Anxiety in the Books

    19:24 Writing Journey

    21:48 Favorite Books

    23:56 Future Projects

    25:32 Where to Find Elizabeth James

    26:20 Conclusion

    www.valeriefentress.com/blog

    Pippa Speaks Up!: A Heartwarming, Illustrated White House Adventure Supporting Kids’ Mental Health with Empowering Anxiety-Relief Strategies for Girls ... (Pippa Potter, President's Daughter Book 1) - Kindle edition by James, Elizabeth, James, Elizabeth. Children Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.

    Elizabeth James writes children's books

    Let's discover great books together!

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    YouTube: BookWorthy Podcast - YouTube
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