Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast BookWorthy
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| A Gift, a Book, a Blessing with Eric and Meredith Schroedtenbauer | 29 Apr 2026 | 00:28:18 | |
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 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 Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! | |||
| A Beautiful Earth Day Compilation of Poems with Nancy Tupper Ling | 22 Apr 2026 | 00:21:53 | |
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 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 Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! | |||
| The Colorful World of Hadley the Hippo with Kayla E. Green | 25 Feb 2026 | 00:22:09 | |
Full Transcripts available at http://www.valeriefentress.com/blog In this episode of Bookworthy, Valerie interviews Kayla E. Green, an award-winning YA fantasy author who has ventured into children's literature with her picture book 'Hadley the Hippo.' They discuss the inspiration behind the book, the importance of conversations about what children consume, both in terms of food and media, and Kayla's journey as a writer and teacher. Kayla shares her favorite books and their impact on her life, as well as what readers can expect from her upcoming projects. Hadley the Hippo is What She Eats (affiliate link) The Unicorn Writer – Faith. Fiction. Fireside Poetry. Don't forget to join in the Middle Grade March Madness. Fill out your bracket and follow the fun as you, the reader, help BookWorthy choose the #1 Middle Grade book for ages 8-12. Follow over on YouTube
Takeaways Kayla's journey into writing began in elementary school. 'Hadley the Hippo' is inspired by her daughter's love for food. Books can serve as conversation starters for families. It's important for children to understand what they consume mentally and emotionally. Kayla emphasizes the importance of teaching children to guard their hearts. She believes in the power of read-alouds for all ages. Kayla's teaching experience has shaped her storytelling. Different books impact us at different stages of life. Kayla's favorite books include 'The Girl Who Drank the Moon' and 'Matilda.' She is working on a young adult pirate fantasy and a sequel to 'The Goodness of Unicorns.' Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kayla E. Green and Hadley the Hippo 01:49 The Inspiration Behind Hadley the Hippo 04:55 The Message of Hadley and Its Importance 09:14 Kayla's Writing Journey and Teaching Background 14:48 Favorite Books and Their Impact 20:15 What's Next for Kayla E. Green?
Let's discover great books together! | |||
| BookWorthy Chats with Elizabeth James | 03 Jul 2024 | 00:26:39 | |
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 Let's discover great books together! | |||
| Bonus Episode with Joshua Cooley | 26 Jun 2024 | 00:19:42 | |
Summary In this bonus episode of Book Worthy, Valerie interviews Joshua Cooley, the author of the children's book 'I Can't Believe My Eyes.' They discuss the importance of addressing big questions about God with children and how everyday experiences can be used to teach them about faith. Joshua shares some of the funny and strange questions he has been asked by kids, and they talk about the role of fathers in modeling faith. They also discuss Joshua's involvement in the Go Bible project, a Bible for kids that includes book introductions and helps them understand the relevance of Scripture. Takeaways Addressing big questions about God with children is important for building a strong foundation of faith from a young age. Everyday experiences can be used to teach children about faith and help them understand the existence of God. Fathers play a crucial role in modeling faith for their children and answering their questions. The Go Bible project is a valuable resource for helping kids understand the relevance and importance of Scripture. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview of Joshua Cooley's Book 03:06 Addressing Big Questions About God with Children 05:57 Using Everyday Experiences to Teach Children about Faith 09:08 The Role of Fathers in Modeling Faith 12:11 Coming Soon From Joshua Cooley
I Can’t Believe My Eyes: Joshua Cooley, Hannah Green: 9781914966811: Amazon.com: Books
Let's discover great books together! | |||
| BookWorthy Chats with Kelly Wilson Mize | 26 Jun 2024 | 00:25:57 | |
Summary Kelly Wilson-Mize discusses her picture book, The Beautiful Story Within Me, which explores the theme of not judging a book by its cover and emphasizes the value and worth of every individual. The book incorporates a gospel message and is suitable for readers of all ages. Kelly shares her personal journey as a writer and the inspiration behind the book. She also talks about her experiences interviewing well-known Christian personalities and her love for books and reading. Kelly reflects on the impact of early childhood experiences on her writing aspirations and offers recommendations for reluctant readers. She discusses the challenges of self-publishing and shares her plans and projects. Takeaways The Beautiful Story Within Me is a picture book that conveys the message of not judging a book by its cover and emphasizes the value and worth of every individual. The book incorporates a gospel message and is suitable for readers of all ages. Kelly Wilson-Mize drew inspiration for the book from her experience as an elementary librarian and her observations of books that were never seen or appreciated by children. Kelly shares her personal journey as a writer and her love for books and reading, including her experiences interviewing well-known Christian personalities. She reflects on the impact of early childhood experiences on her writing aspirations and offers recommendations for reluctant readers. Kelly discusses the challenges of self-publishing and shares her future plans and projects.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Book and Author 02:05 The Inspiration Behind the Book 04:08 The Gospel Message in the Book 06:20 Personal Journey and Reflections 08:33 The Role of Animals in the Book 09:03 Writing Journey and Experience 11:29 Interviewing Christian Personalities 13:49 Early Writing Experiences 16:49 The Power of Second to Fourth Grade 17:18 Favorite Books 18:50 Recommendations for Reluctant Readers 22:09 Challenges of Self-Publishing 24:17 Future Plans and Projects 25:26 Where to Find More Information 26:11 Conclusion Let's discover great books together! | |||
| BookWorthy Chats with Jean Johnson | 19 Jun 2024 | 00:26:49 | |
Summary Jean Johnson, author of the Renny Roo's Adventures series, shares her inspiration for the books and how her childhood experiences in the Yucatan jungle influenced her writing. Her books discuss her fascination with dinosaurs and the importance of teaching friendship and manners. Jean also talks about her plans for future books in the series and the availability of bilingual editions. You can find more information about Jean and her books on her website and social media channels. Takeaways Childhood experiences can inspire and shape creative work. Educational books can help children learn new words and concepts. Books can create a welcoming and joyful atmosphere for readers. Bilingual books can make stories accessible to a wider audience.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Inspiration 03:02 Growing Up in the Yucatan Jungle 06:33 Influence of Childhood Experiences 09:54 Fascination with Dinosaurs 11:39 Introducing Tater Tot 12:47 Teaching Friendship and Manners 14:28 Choosing Book Locations 15:10 Future Books in the Series 17:06 Becoming a Writer 19:03 Creating a Welcoming Atmosphere 21:05 Favorite Books 24:35 Future Plans and Bilingual Books 26:16 Where to Find More Information Let's discover great books together! | |||
| BookWorthy Chats with Jarm Del Boccio | 12 Jun 2024 | 00:24:24 | |
Summary In this episode of Bookworthy, Valerie interviews Jarm Del Boccio about her award-winning middle-grade novel, The Heart Changer. Jarm shares the inspiration behind the book and her desire to help kids explore forgiveness and compassion through biblical and historical fiction. They discuss the importance of middle-grade fiction and the impact it can have on young readers. Yarm also talks about her writing journey and future projects. The episode concludes with information on where to find Jarm and her books. Takeaways The Heart Changer is a middle-grade novel that explores forgiveness and compassion through biblical and historical fiction. Middle-grade fiction is important because it allows young readers to relate to characters who face similar struggles and encourages them to trust in God's plan for their lives. Jarm Del Boccio's writing journey began with a love for communication and a desire to encourage and inspire others. Yarm's future projects include a mystery set at the World Columbian Exposition of 1893 and a nonfiction book on aging. To learn more about Yarm and her books, visit her website at yarmdelboccio.com. Chapters
00:00 Introduction to The Heart Changer 02:06 The Inspiration Behind The Heart Changer 05:45 Writing Middle-Grade Fiction 09:08 Takeaways from The Heart Changer 13:16 The Importance of Middle-Grade Fiction 17:51 Yarm's Writing Journey 20:05 Favorite Books and Future Projects 23:57 Where to Find Yarm and Her Books 24:09 Conclusion Let's discover great books together! | |||
| BookWorthy Chats with Jared Michaud | 05 Jun 2024 | 00:33:31 | |
Summary In this conversation, Valerie Fentress interviews author Jared Michaud about his YA science fiction novel, Bright Star. They discuss the inspiration behind the book, the representation of autism in the main character, and the use of science fiction to communicate truths about God. Jared also explains the concept of Energemetra 6, the energy force in the book's universe. He shares his favorite impactful books and discusses his future plans for the series. Listeners are directed to the E6Universe.com website for more information.
Takeaways Science fiction can be a powerful tool to communicate truths about God to teens and young adults. Representation of diverse characters, such as those with autism, can help readers connect and empathize with the struggles of others. The concept of Energemetra 6 in Bright Star serves as a force of nature rather than a mystical power, highlighting God's ultimate power and the importance of relationships and character. Books have the power to impact and change lives, and different books can be impactful during different seasons of life.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Bright Star and the Author 02:00 Inspiration to Write Science Fiction 04:19 Fascination with Space and God's Creation 06:12 Using Science Fiction to Communicate Truths about God 12:25 Representation of Autism in the Main Character 20:32 The Concept of Energemetra 6 26:05 Impactful Books and the Power of Story 29:38 Future Plans and Related Books 33:11 Where to Find More Information Let's discover great books together! | |||
| BookWorthy Chats with Dr. Anne Worth | 29 May 2024 | 00:26:40 | |
Summary Dr. Ann Worth discusses her three-book series, Tessie's Tears, which addresses difficult topics for children. The inspiration for the series came during the pandemic when Dr. Worth realized the need to help children process the hard things happening in the world. Her counseling background influenced the books, guiding for parents to help their children navigate these topics. The books cover themes of loss, friendship, and the love of animals, while also incorporating salvation and faith. Dr. Worth shares her journey into counseling and her late-in-life conversion to Christianity. She also mentions her favorite books and her plans for future books. Takeaways Dr. Ann Worth's Tessie's Tears series addresses difficult topics for children and provides guidance for parents to help their children navigate these issues. The books cover themes of loss, friendship, and the love of animals, while also incorporating salvation and faith. Dr. Worth's counseling background influenced the books, allowing her to provide valuable insights and support for parents. Her journey into counseling and her late-in-life conversion to Christianity have shaped her writing and her desire to help others.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:21 The Inspiration Behind the Tessie Series 03:32 The Influence of Counseling Background 06:05 The Third Book: A Story About a Rescue Puppy 11:23 The Messages in the Books 15:41 Dr. Ann Worth's Journey into Counseling 18:18 Dr. Ann Worth's Journey to Faith 21:11 Favorite Books and the Passion Translation 23:31 Future Books and Themes 25:10 Where to Find Dr. Ann Worth's Books 26:27 Conclusion Let's discover great books together! | |||
| BookWorthy Chats with Barbara Seregi | 22 May 2024 | 00:21:44 | |
Summary Barb Seregi discusses her book series, Army of God, and specifically focuses on book three, Tommy and the Good News Shoes. The conversation explores the inspiration behind the series, the main message of the book, and the impact of the armor of God. Barb also shares her favorite books and the power of storytelling. The discussion concludes with a conversation about writing from the perspective of children or animals and the charm of squirrels. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Inspiration for the Book Series 02:32 Tommy and the Good News Shoes: Communicating Peace 05:26 Character Inspiration and Writing for Children 10:04 The Impact of the Armor of God 12:00 The Main Message of Tommy and the Good News Shoes 14:01 Upcoming Book and the Shield of Faith 16:52 Favorite Books and the Power of Storytelling 18:48 Future Projects and Favorite Children's Book 20:34 Writing from the Perspective of Children or Animals 21:26 The Charm of Squirrels and Finding More About the Author Let's discover great books together! | |||
| BookWorthy Chats with Linda MacKillop | 15 May 2024 | 00:23:39 | |
Summary In this episode of Bookworthy, Valerie interviews Linda McKillop about her middle-grade book, Hotel Oscar Mike Echo. The conversation covers various topics, including the inspiration behind the book's unusual title, addressing adult topics in a middle-grade book, Sierra's cooking skills and creativity, the message and takeaways of the book, Linda's writing journey, her military background and inspirations, the most impactful book in Linda's life, the transition from writing for adults to middle grade, future projects, and where to find Linda and her books. Takeaways Hotel Oscar Mike Echo addresses adult topics such as PTSD, homelessness, and addiction in a relatable way for middle grade readers. The book's title, Hotel Oscar Mike Echo, is inspired by the military alphabet and plays a significant role in the story. Sierra's cooking skills and creativity are highlighted in the book, adding a unique element to the story. The book aims to teach young readers compassion and empathy for those who are struggling. Linda McKillop's writing journey began in high school, and she has since written both nonfiction and fiction books. The book draws inspiration from Linda's experiences volunteering and working with children in difficult circumstances. The most impactful books in Linda's life include The Hole in Our Gospel by Richard Stearns and Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster. Linda made the transition from writing for adults to middle grade to address important topics and reach a younger audience. Linda has future projects in the works, including a potential follow-up to Hotel Oscar Mike Echo. Readers can find Linda McKillop and her books on her website and social media platforms. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Question of the Week 01:20 The Unusual Title of Hotel Oscar Mike Echo 02:17 Addressing Adult Topics in a Middle Grade Book 06:33 Sierra's Cooking Skills and Creativity 08:21 The Message and Takeaways of Hotel Oscar Mike Echo 11:00 Linda's Writing Journey 14:26 Military Background and Inspirations 15:49 The Most Impactful Book in Linda's Life 18:02 Transition from Writing for Adults to Middle Grade 21:00 Future Projects 22:42 Where to Find Linda and Her Books 23:26 Conclusion Let's discover great books together! | |||
| BookWorthy Chats with Eden Estabrook | 08 May 2024 | 00:26:13 | |
Summary In this episode of the Bookworthy Podcast, Valerie Fentress interviews Eden Estabrook about her book, Arnie the Armadillo Goes to Antarctica. They discuss traveling to extreme places, the inspiration behind the book, teaching vocabulary through storytelling, the moralistic message in children's books, the influence of Dr. Seuss and Winnie the Pooh, becoming a children's author, impactful children's books, and future plans for Arnie the Armadillo. Takeaways Children learn best linguistically in the one to five age range, making it important to expose them to diverse vocabulary at a young age. Children's books can teach important moral lessons while engaging young readers with fun and imaginative stories. Dr. Seuss and Winnie the Pooh are influential children's books that combine chaos and innocence to create memorable stories. Becoming a children's author can be a surprising and fulfilling career path, even for those who didn't initially plan on it. Arnie the Armadillo Goes to Antarctica is the first book in a potential series that aims to introduce children to vocabulary through entertaining stories. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Traveling to Antarctica 02:27 Traveling to Extreme Places 03:15 The Inspiration for Arnie the Armadillo 07:25 Teaching Vocabulary through Arnie the Armadillo 09:28 The Moralistic Message in Arnie the Armadillo 11:23 The Influence of Dr. Seuss and Winnie the Pooh 15:50 Becoming a Children's Author 19:49 Impactful Children's Books 21:54 Future Plans for Arnie the Armadillo 25:22 Conclusion and Where to Find More Information Let's discover great books together! | |||
| Growing a Love of God on the Farm with Sarah Philpott | 18 Feb 2026 | 00:20:39 | |
Full Transcripts available at http://www.valeriefentress.com/blog In this episode of Bookworthy, Valerie interviews award-winning author Sarah Philpott, who shares her journey from writing devotionals to creating children's books. They discuss Sarah's latest book, 'Wake Up, Little Seed,' which connects children with the growth process in nature while emphasizing God's role in it. The conversation also explores the creative process behind children's literature, the impact of teacher encouragement, and the importance of reading in family life. Moo, Moo Nap, Nap | Sarah Philpott Wake Up Little Seed (affiliate link) Don't forget to join in the Middle Grade March Madness. Fill out your bracket and follow the fun as you, the reader, help BookWorthy choose the #1 Middle Grade book for ages 8-12. Follow over on YouTube Takeaways Sarah Philpott emphasizes the importance of God's presence in every detail of life. Her book 'Wake Up, Little Seed' aims to teach children about growth and God's role in it. Transitioning from writing devotionals to children's books has been a delightful journey for Sarah. Writing children's books is challenging due to the need for impactful storytelling in fewer words. Illustrations play a crucial role in children's books, enhancing the storytelling experience. Publishers often have a lot of heart and care about the details in book creation. Encouragement from teachers can significantly impact a writer's journey. Sarah's writing journey has been filled with constant project ideas and learning. Recent reads often leave a lasting impact on readers, shaping their thoughts and reflections. Reading together as a family is a vital activity that fosters connection and learning. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sarah Philpott and Her Work 01:56 Exploring 'Wake Up, Little Seed' 05:43 Transitioning from Devotionals to Children's Books 09:20 The Creative Process Behind Children's Books 12:44 Sarah's Writing Journey and Inspirations 16:30 Impactful Books and Their Influence 18:18 Connecting with Readers and Future Plans
Let's discover great books together! | |||
| BookWorthy Chats with Eric and Meredith Schrotenboer | 01 May 2024 | 00:27:52 | |
Summary 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 Let's discover great books together! | |||
| BookWorthy Chats with Xochitl Dixon | 24 Apr 2024 | 00:33:00 | |
Summary In this episode of Book Worthy, Valerie interviews Xochitl Dixon about her picture book, 'What Color is God's Love?' They discuss the inspiration behind the book, the importance of embracing diversity, and the impact of colors and emotions. Xochitl also shares her journey of becoming an author and her upcoming projects. The conversation highlights the power of colors in conveying God's love and the need to challenge negative connotations associated with certain colors. Overall, the book encourages children to celebrate diversity and recognize God's presence in all things. Takeaways Colors can be used to convey God's love and evoke emotions. It is important to embrace diversity and challenge negative connotations associated with certain colors. Children's books can play a significant role in teaching faith and promoting inclusivity. Nature and colors can serve as reminders of God's unchanging character. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Favorite Color 01:04 Family and Personal Background 03:10 Becoming a Christian and Embracing Diversity 04:45 Inspiration behind 'What Color is God's Love?' 08:17 Exploring Colors and Emotions 09:07 Challenging Negative Connotations of Colors 10:18 God's Presence in Nature and Colors 12:38 Additional Resources and Activities 15:13 The Inspiration behind 'Wonderfully, Marvelously Brown' 20:24 Childhood Dream of Becoming an Author 25:31 Most Impactful Book (Other than the Bible) 29:39 Upcoming Projects 33:37 Where to Find More Information 34:05 Conclusion Let's discover great books together! | |||
| Play it Again with Courtney Siebring | 17 Apr 2024 | 00:23:56 | |
REPLAY from 11/1/2023 In this episode of the Bookworthy podcast, Valerie Fentress interviews Courtney Siebring about her debut children's book, Little Spark of Life. They discuss topics such as Halloween candy, tackling the sensitive topic of where babies come from, engaging a kid's curiosity, engaging in the pro-life community, and more. Courtney shares her journey and how her daughter's fascination with pregnancy and childbirth inspired her to write the book. They also talk about the importance of encouraging children's passions and the impact of books in their lives. Courtney shares her plans for future projects and building community around creativity.
Takeaways Encourage children's curiosity and engage in conversations about sensitive topics from an early age. Support and encourage children's passions and interests, allowing them to explore different career paths. Introduce complex words and rich language in children's books to expand their vocabulary and foster a love for learning. Building community around creativity and expression is important for personal growth and connection. Books have the power to impact and shape our lives, and it's important to embrace the diversity of literature.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:23 Halloween Candy 01:16 Favorite Type of Candy 02:06 Tackling the Sensitive Topic of Where Babies Come From 03:30 Engaging a Kid's Curiosity 04:17 Engaging in the Pro-Life Community 06:50 Combining Daughter's Curiosity and Pro-Life Message 07:19 Daughter's Reaction to the Book 08:30 Encouraging Children's Passions 09:15 Courtney's Background in Theater and Voiceover 10:53 Impactful Books in Courtney's Life 13:16 Educating Children's Imagination 14:14 Healing and Redemption 15:25 Becoming an Author 18:47 Favorite Children's Book 20:28 Introducing Complex Words to Kids 21:12 Building Community Around Creativity 22:07 What's Next for Courtney 22:34 Where to Find More about Courtney and Her Books 23:18 Conclusion Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! | |||
| Play it Again with Tama Fortner | 10 Apr 2024 | 00:23:19 | |
Summary In this episode of the Bookworthy Podcast, Valerie Fentress interviews Tama Fortner, the author of the children's book 'God, I Feel Scared.' They discuss childhood fears, the importance of trusting God with fear, and the power of children's books. Tama shares her experience collaborating with prominent authors and the impact of books in her own life. She also talks about her writing journey and her upcoming adult devotional. Listeners are encouraged to check out Tama's books and engage in the comments section.
Takeaways Fear is a natural emotion that can be addressed by turning to God. Children's books have the power to teach important concepts and lay foundations for faith. Writing for children is a privilege and a responsibility to give them the best tools for navigating life. Reading to children creates precious moments of connection and fosters a love for reading.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Pumpkin Spice vs. Apple Cider 01:11 Childhood Fears 03:18 Trusting God with Fear 06:27 Collaborating on the Book 08:17 The Power of Children's Books 09:01 Takeaway: Fear is on Purpose 10:42 Working with Prominent Authors 12:07 The Importance of Children's Books 14:08 Tama's Writing Journey 15:56 Impactful Books in Tama's Life 17:42 Taking Writing Seriously 19:05 Favorite Children's Book 20:52 What's Next for Tama 22:22 Where to Find Tama and Her Books 22:47 Conclusion Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! | |||
| Play it Again with Crystal Bowman | 03 Apr 2024 | 00:32:25 | |
Summary Crystal Bowman, an award-winning author of over a hundred children's books, shares her journey as a children's author and the changes she has seen in children's books over the years. She discusses her love for poetry and her involvement in music. Crystal also talks about her favorite books and her upcoming projects. She emphasizes the importance of writing books that are both fun and teach children about God's love. Takeaways Children's books have evolved to meet the needs of parents and teach children about emotions, compassion, and God's love. Writing in rhyme is a skill that requires both ability and practice. Children's books can have a profound impact on both children and adults, providing comfort, inspiration, and teaching valuable lessons. Crystal Bowman's upcoming projects include a Bible storybook focused on compassion and an Easter storybook.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Pumpkin Spice 03:00 Crystal's Journey as an Author 05:06 Crystal's Love for Poetry 08:53 Crystal's Involvement in Music 10:25 Crystal's Unexpected Path to Children's Author 12:18 Changes in Children's Books 13:12 Crystal's Favorite Books 17:12 Crystal's Favorite Book She Has Written 22:00 Crystal's Current Reading 25:45 Crystal's Upcoming Books 30:11 Where to Find Crystal 31:12 Closing Remarks Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! | |||
| BookWorthy Chats with Glenys Nellist | 27 Mar 2024 | 00:25:19 | |
Summary In this episode, Valerie interviews author Glenys Nellist about her book 'Song of the Seasons'. They start with a fun Four Seasons Quiz and then discuss the inspiration behind the book, including the beauty of nature and the message of Psalm 98. Glenys shares a funny encounter with cows during a walk and talks about finding inspiration in God's Word and the outdoors. They also discuss their favorite things about each season and Glenys shares her plans for Easter and future projects. The episode concludes with information on where to find Glenys Nellist online. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Four Seasons Quiz 06:59 Inspiration behind 'Song of the Seasons' 08:43 Funny Encounters in Nature 12:02 Finding Inspiration in God's Word and Nature 14:18 Favorite Things about Each Season 24:24 Where to Find Glenys Nellist 25:13 Conclusion www.valeriefentress.com Let's discover great books together! | |||
| BookWorthy Talks with Terrie Hellard-Brown | 20 Mar 2024 | 00:26:32 | |
Summary Find out more about Terrie Hellard-Brown and her book on the links below. Main - Terrie Hellard Brown Happy Reading! Let's discover great books together! | |||
| BookWorthy Talks with JJ LeVan | 13 Mar 2024 | 00:28:51 | |
Summary Find out more about JJ LeVan and her book on the links below.
Happy Reading! Let's discover great books together! | |||
| BookWorthy Talks with Kylie Beevers | 06 Mar 2024 | 00:22:15 | |
Summary Takeaways
Chapters 01:07-Living on a Farm and Connecting with Nature 03:08-Incorporating Faith in Children's Literature 05:13-Writing a Fantasy Book without Magic 07:48-Using Animals as Main Characters in Fantasy 09:15-Inspiration for 'Rise of the Living Wood' 11:41-Taking on the Task of Publishing at a Young Age 12:31-The Message of 'Rise of the Living Wood' 13:56-The Journey of Bramble and the Trilogy 15:47-The Start of the Writing Journey 16:46-Favorite Books and Reading Recommendations 18:35-Current Reading List 21:04-Future Projects 22:05-Where to Find More Information
Find out more about Kylie and her books on the links below. Happy Reading! Let's discover great books together! | |||
| BookWorthy Talks with Sally Cressman | 28 Feb 2024 | 00:25:02 | |
In this episode of the Bookworthy Podcast, Valerie Fentress interviews Sally Cressman, author of 'The Dance of Easter.' Sally shares her favorite season and discusses her background and family. She introduces her book and explains the inspiration behind it. Sally also talks about how she aimed to bridge the gap between churchgoers and those outside the church with her book. She shares her writing journey and the challenges of writing in rhyme. Sally discusses the most impactful book in her life and the importance of believing in God's work through writing. She concludes by mentioning her upcoming projects and where listeners can find her and her book. Find out more about Sally Cressman and her book on the links below. Home - Sally Cressman Let's discover great books together! | |||
| Emotional Growth Through Storytelling with Kathleen Davis | 11 Feb 2026 | 00:23:14 | |
Full Transcripts available at http://www.valeriefentress.com/blog In this episode of Bookworthy, host Valerie speaks with children's author Kathleen about her journey as a writer and the themes of her latest book, 'Our Hearts.' Kathleen shares insights on the importance of emotional development in children, the role of children's literature in addressing complex feelings, and her personal experiences that inspired her writing. The conversation also touches on the challenges of publishing and the significance of fostering a sense of belonging and love in children's lives. Kathleen Davis Books – Faith based books for kids, signed by the author, shipped for free. Takeaways Books are a way to positively influence children. Children's emotions affect those around them. Recognizing feelings is crucial for emotional growth. Children's books can facilitate important discussions. Parents can use books to communicate complex ideas simply. Writing can be a therapeutic outlet for parents. It's important for children to feel loved and supported. Diversity in children's literature is essential. Encouraging gratitude can help combat anxiety. Every child is unique and beautiful in their own way. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kathleen and Her Book 02:22 Exploring the Themes of 'Our Hearts' 04:40 The Role of Children's Books in Emotional Development 09:13 The Inspiration Behind 'Our Hearts' 13:06 The Journey of Writing and Publishing 17:43 Looking Ahead: Kathleen's Upcoming Book 21:06 Conclusion and Resources Let's discover great books together! | |||
| BookWorthy Talks with Liz and Jack Hagler | 21 Feb 2024 | 00:25:52 | |
Join Valerie Fentress as she chats with Illustrator and Author couple Liz and Jack Hagler. Let's discover great books together! | |||
| BookWorthy Talks with Dr. Sonia E. Amin | 14 Feb 2024 | 00:23:50 | |
Join Valerie Fentress as she talks with Dr Sonia E. Amin about her children's picture book When Love Flows. Let's discover great books together! | |||
| BookWorthy Talks with Michelle Lazurek | 07 Feb 2024 | 00:27:00 | |
Summary Takeaways
Chapters 01:21 The Message of the Book 06:15 Choosing a Career vs. Knowing God 09:19 Encouraging Children in Their Journey 15:05 Modeling Obedience and Seeking God's Will 19:27 Personal Stories and God's Guidance 24:17 What's Next for Michelle 26:45 Conclusion Find out more about Michelle and her book on the links below.
Happy Reading! Let's discover great books together! | |||
| BookWorthy Talks with Lori Z. Scott | 31 Jan 2024 | 00:26:45 | |
Summary Find out more about Lori Z. Scott and her book on the links below. Happy Reading! Let's discover great books together! | |||
| Bonus BookWorthy Chat with Glenys Nellist | 24 Jan 2024 | 00:32:50 | |
Summary 19:06-Countdown to Easter Calendar 22:09-Mission and Service Projects 23:05- Favorite Easter Books 24:31-Impactful Books in the Author's Life 27:52- Upcoming Book Release 33:39-Where to Find More Information Let's discover great books together! | |||
| BookWorthy Talks with Becca Wierwille | 24 Jan 2024 | 00:22:54 | |
Summary Takeaways
Chapters 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 Check out these Family Road trip tricks here: Road Trippin' (valeriefentress.com) Find out more about Becca and her book on the links below. Happy Reading! Let's discover great books together! | |||
| BookWorthy Talks with Anna Cook | 17 Jan 2024 | 00:20:04 | |
Summary Find out more about Anna Cook and her book on the links below. Amazon.com: Brynn & Amir and the Magic Map eBook : Cook, Anna: Kindle Store Happy Reading! Let's discover great books together! | |||
| BookWorthy Talks with Jill Roman Lord | 10 Jan 2024 | 00:25:57 | |
Summary Takeaways
Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:12 New Year's Resolutions 03:08 Inspiration for the Book 'Love Well, Precious One' 06:15 Teaching Kids to Celebrate and Encourage Each Other 09:53 Samaritan's Feet Ministry 12:48 Balancing Nursing and Writing 14:12 Jill's Writing Journey 18:36 Most Impactful Book (Other than the Bible) 22:05 Most Impactful Book to Write 23:28 Upcoming Books 24:52 Where to Find Jill and Her Books 25:48 Conclusion
Find out more about Jill and her books on the links below.
Happy Reading! Let's discover great books together! | |||
| BookWorthy Talks with R.M. Ruiz | 03 Jan 2024 | 00:23:55 | |
Happy New Year! Let's discover great books together! | |||
| Book Worthy talks with Courtney J. Strong and Carissa J. Robertson | 06 Dec 2023 | 00:25:56 | |
Join Valerie Fentress as she chats with Courtney J. Strong and Illustrator Carissa J. Robertson about their children's Christmas Book, A Trail of Unexpected Gifts.
We talk Christmas traditions, family, and about the efforts of Vision Rescue in India
Find out more about Vision Rescue and the book on the links below.
Happy Reading! Let's discover great books together! | |||
| A Journey into The Black Cyclone with John Kennedy Howard | 04 Feb 2026 | 00:25:49 | |
Full Transcripts available at http://www.valeriefentress.com/blog In this episode of Book Worthy, Valerie interviews cycling legend John Howard, who discusses his latest book, The Black Cyclone, which tells the story of Major Taylor, the first acclaimed African-American sports hero. Howard shares insights into the extensive research he conducted to bring Taylor's story to life, the challenges Taylor faced in a racially charged environment, and the lessons young readers can learn from his life. Howard also reflects on his own experiences in cycling and his future writing projects.
Takeaways Major Taylor was a pioneering figure in cycling and civil rights. John Howard spent years researching Major Taylor's life and achievements. The Black Cyclone aims to educate young readers about history and perseverance. Howard's interviews with Taylor's daughter provided unique insights into his life. Major Taylor faced significant racism and adversity during his career. The book will have a children's version to reach a younger audience. Howard's own cycling experiences were influenced by Major Taylor's legacy. The importance of storytelling in preserving history is emphasized. Howard is working on an autobiographical piece about his life. The conversation highlights the ongoing relevance of civil rights discussions today. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to John Howard and Major Taylor 02:16 The Legacy of Major Taylor 04:47 Researching Major Taylor's Life 07:29 Writing for Younger Readers 09:40 Personal Impact of Major Taylor's Story 12:02 Major Taylor's Endurance and Challenges 15:08 Cultural Significance of Major Taylor 17:39 Lessons for Today's Youth 20:05 Future Projects and Inspirations Let's discover great books together! | |||
| BookWorthy Talks with Valerie Ellis | 29 Nov 2023 | 00:24:30 | |
Join Valerie Fentress as she chats with author Valerie Ellis about her children's book Share the Joy. Let's discover great books together! | |||
| BookWorthy Talks with Jennifer Noel Wilson | 15 Nov 2023 | 00:16:31 | |
Join Valerie Fentress as she chats with debut chidlren's author, Jennifer Noel Wilson. Let's discover great books together! | |||
| BookWorthy Talks with Candice Pedraz Yamnitz | 08 Nov 2023 | 00:13:54 | |
Join Valerie Fentress as she talks with Candice Pedraz Yamnitz about her early reader book Desi and Ky Go Poof. Let's discover great books together! | |||
| BookWorthy Podcast Trailer | 27 Jun 2023 | 00:00:58 | |
Find out what BookWorthy is all about. Let's discover great books together! | |||
| Exploring Wild Faith with Valerie Ellis- A Devotional for Kids | 28 Jan 2026 | 00:28:32 | |
Full Transcripts available at http://www.valeriefentress.com/blog In this episode of Bookworthy, Valerie Ellis discusses her latest book, 'Wild Faith Devotions for Kids,' which explores the connection between animal traits and Christian teachings. Valerie shares her journey as a writer, the research involved in selecting animals for the book, and the importance of fostering wonder in children. She also reflects on her writing process and future projects, emphasizing the role of faith in parenting and education. Valerie Ellis – Delighting Kids, Serving Parents https://oureverydayparables.com/family-games-all-ages/ https://oureverydayparables.com/books/
Takeaways Valerie's book connects animal traits to Christian teachings. The Importance of Grace in Children's Spiritual Growth Researching animals requires careful validation of information. Kids' curiosity can lead to deeper discussions about faith. Using animals as a tool to foster wonder in children. Valerie's writing journey began with a desire to engage her children. The significance of including lesser-known Bible stories. Valerie emphasizes the importance of community in the writing process. Encouraging children to explore their interests can lead to faith discussions. Valerie's future projects aim to continue engaging children in faith-based learning.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Wild Faith Devotions 02:36 Exploring Animal Traits and Christian Life 05:24 Researching Animals for Devotional Insights 08:34 Bizarre Animals and Their Lessons 11:24 Fostering Wonder in Children 13:54 Valerie's Writing Journey 20:37 Future Projects and Goals Let's discover great books together! | |||
| Discovering WWII Mysteries with Nell Branum | 21 Jan 2026 | 00:21:44 | |
Full Transcripts available at http://www.valeriefentress.com/blog In this episode of the Bookworthy Podcast, Valerie interviews Nell Branum, a former elementary school librarian and author of the 'Heroes on the Home Front' series. They discuss Nell's inspiration for her books, which blend contemporary mysteries with historical elements from World War II, focusing on the stories of women who contributed to the war effort. The conversation explores the importance of intergenerational storytelling, the lessons learned from history, and Nell's writing journey. Listeners will gain insights into the significance of faith and resilience in both literature and life, as well as a sneak peek into Nell's upcoming works. Takeaways Nell Branum's books are contemporary mysteries rooted in World War II history. The series features a sixth grader, Riley Abercrombie, who uncovers real-life mysteries. Nell's parents were involved in World War II, influencing her writing. Intergenerational conversations are vital for understanding history. Nell aims to show that being a Christian is both possible and smart. Each book includes a scripture from Ephesians, emphasizing faith. Nell's writing journey began with curriculum writing and evolved into fiction. She has a tradition of publishing books with her grandchildren. The upcoming book focuses on the women who fed soldiers during the war. Nell believes history teaches us valuable lessons for today.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Nell Branum and Her Books 02:43 Exploring the Heroes on the Home Front Series 06:18 The Contemporary vs. Historical Narrative 10:02 The Heart of the Stories: Lessons from History 14:12 Nell's Writing Journey and Inspirations 19:31 Upcoming Works and Historical Inspirations Let's discover great books together! | |||
| Play it Again with Abbi Lee | 14 Jan 2026 | 00:24:52 | |
Full Transcripts available at http://www.valeriefentress.com/blog 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. Geocache Club Series – Abbi Lee Books 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?
Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! | |||
| Play it Again with Dominique Okonkwo | 07 Jan 2026 | 00:24:57 | |
Full Transcripts available at http://www.valeriefentress.com/blog 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. Writer Portfolio | Dominique Okonkwo | Miami Motherhood 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 Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! | |||
| Play it Again with Amanda Cleary Eastep | 31 Dec 2025 | 00:26:22 | |
Full Transcripts available at http://www.valeriefentress.com/blog In this Play it Again episode from Season Four 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. Amanda Cleary Eastep – Author, Tree Street Kids series Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! | |||
| Play it Again Christmas Edition with Author Courtney Strong and Illustrator Carissa Robertson | 24 Dec 2025 | 00:26:38 | |
Full Transcripts available at http://www.valeriefentress.com/blog In this Play it Again episode from Season One, Valerie Fentress interviews Courtney J. Strong and illustrator Carissa Robertson about their new Christmas picture book, The Trail of Unexpected Gifts. They discuss their favorite Christmas traditions, the inspiration behind the book, the process of illustrating the book, and their heart for donating the proceeds to Vision Rescue. They also talk about involving their children in the book and their future projects. The episode concludes with information on where to find the book and a Christmas giveaway.
Takeaways The Trail of Unexpected Gifts is a Christmas picture book that seeks to unwrap the story behind the gifts given at Christmas. The book is illustrated by Carissa Robertson and written by Courtney J. Strong. All the proceeds from the book will be donated to Vision Rescue, an organization that works to rescue and educate children in the slums of India. The authors involved their own children in the creation of the book, and their input and ideas were incorporated into the story and illustrations. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:58 Introducing the Guests and the Book 03:22 Favorite Christmas Traditions 04:30 The Inspiration Behind the Book 05:10 Illustrating the Book 07:17 Donating Proceeds to Vision Rescue 10:33 Involving the Kids in the Book 12:45 Future Projects 15:36 Courtney's Previous Book 17:35 Carissa's Artistic Journey 19:00 Favorite Children's Books 22:45 Future Books and Collaboration 25:39 Where to Find the Books 26:00 Conclusion Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! | |||
| A Grandpuppy Leaves her mark with author Sandra Kay Chambers | 15 Apr 2026 | 00:20:19 | |
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 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 Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! | |||
| Play It Again Christmas Edition with Becky VanVleet | 17 Dec 2025 | 00:29:55 | |
Full Transcripts available at http://www.valeriefentress.com/blog In this Play it Again episode from Season Fout of Bookworthy, Valerie interviews Becky Van Vleet, an award-winning multi-genre author, about her children's picture book, Angelina the Traveling Angel. The book follows Angelina, a magical Christmas tree topper, as she travels from home to home and questions her worth. Becky shares the inspiration behind the book, which is part of her traveling series based on objects passed down through generations in her family. She discusses the importance of preserving family stories and memories and the impact of her own writing journey. Becky also recommends the book Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers and shares her favorite children's book author, Patricia Palocco.
Takeaways Preserving family stories and memories is important for passing down traditions and creating a sense of identity. Children's books can convey important messages, such as the gospel, in a fun and engaging way. Writing can be a fulfilling and unexpected journey, even for those who may not have considered themselves writers before. Books have the power to impact and inspire readers, shaping their perspectives and values.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:00 The Inspiration for Angelina, the Traveling Angel 07:21 The Message of Angelina, the Traveling Angel 12:49 The Value of Family Stories and Memories 16:18 Becky's Writing Journey 21:48 Impactful Books in Becky's Life 23:18 Favorite Children's Books 25:42 Upcoming Projects 27:54 Where to Find Becky and Her Books 29:01 Conclusion Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! | |||
| Play it Again Christmas Editions with Maria Antonia | 10 Dec 2025 | 00:29:48 | |
Full Transcripts available at http://www.valeriefentress.com/blog In this Play it Again episode from Season Four, Valerie interviews author Maria Antonia about her picture book, The Christmas Elephant, A Nativity Story. They discuss family Christmas traditions, sibling dynamics, and the inspiration behind the book. Maria shares her writing journey and the process of getting her book published. They also talk about their favorite books and what to expect from Maria's upcoming projects.
Takeaways Family traditions around Christmas can vary, such as when to put up the Christmas tree. The Christmas Elephant is a picture book about two sisters putting on a Christmas play and the younger sister's desire to be the Christmas elephant. The book explores themes of imperfection, uniqueness, and finding joy in unexpected moments. Maria's writing journey began with writing stories for her nieces and nephews as birthday gifts. Critique groups and online communities can provide valuable feedback and support for writers. The Christmas Elephant was published after a two-book deal with Paraclete Press. Maria's next picture book, The Runaway Sheep, is based on the parable of the lost sheep. Readers can find more about Maria and her books on her website, where she also offers downloadable activities for kids.
Maria Antonia | children's picture book author Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! | |||
| Play it Again Christmas Edition with Gayle Boss | 03 Dec 2025 | 00:29:40 | |
Full Transcripts available at http://www.valeriefentress.com/blog In this episode of the Bookworthy Podcast, from Season One, Valerie Fentress interviews Gail Boss, the author of All Creation Waits. They discuss the importance of waiting and rest, the inspiration behind the book, and the power of nature in teaching us about God. Gail shares her personal experience of celebrating Advent in a unique way and how it helped her overcome seasonal depression. They also talk about the impact of stories, particularly the Chronicles of Narnia, on shaping their worldview. Gail reveals her current writing project on captive animals and the need to awaken awe and reverence for all creatures. The episode ends with a discussion on the power of waiting and the importance of being spiritually mature to see new beginnings in the midst of darkness. Takeaways Waiting and rest are important practices that can restore our souls and help us prepare for new beginnings. Nature has a profound ability to teach us about God and awaken awe and reverence within us. Stories, like the Chronicles of Narnia, have the power to shape our worldview and open our minds to a world beyond our own. We need to cultivate a love and respect for all creatures, recognizing their inherent value and the lessons they can teach us. Waiting is not empty time; it is a time of learning, preparation, and growth. In the darkness, there is always the potential for new beginnings and resurrection. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Thanksgiving Traditions 08:37 Nature as a Teacher of God 14:55 Cultivating Awe and Reverence for All Creatures 23:45 Finding New Beginnings in the Darkness 28:20 Upcoming Projects and Conclusion Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! | |||