So, there you have it. My nine writing lessons from my Grand Prix adventure. What helps you stay on track in this race we call writing?
write2igniteconference
The Art and Science of Interviewing by Guest Blogger, Megan K. Palmer
Which research course should I choose for my master’s in education? I wondered as I searched to fulfill the credits to graduate in Human Development and Education at Harvard Graduate School of Education. When I told my advisor my passion for writing, without...
Humor in Children’s Literature
Growing up, most of my favorite books were those that included a good amount of humor. Humor brings in light moments when they are needed and, often, makes stories more memorable. With our April Master Class on humor coming up soon, I wanted to recommend a few of my...
Author Interview with JJ Johnson by Pam Halter
Hey Write2Igniters! I’m pleased to introduce you all to JJ Johnson, our teacher for April’s Master Class this year. In my March blog I’ll focus on what he’s covering in his class, “Laughing on the Light Side: Writing Clean, Clever Humor for Kids and Teens." Author JJ...
The Write2Ignite Podcast: Ep. 9: Anna Raats
The Write2Ignite Podcast: Ep. 9: Anna Raats Introducing... Since 2009, Anna Raats has worked for Ambassador International. From designing the interiors of books, to becoming the Chief Operating Officer of the publishing company, Anna knows a thing or two about...
Consider the Lilies: A Book Review by Marci Whitehurst
The Premise Jennifer Grant and Julianna Swaney’s book, Consider the Lilies , was released on February 10th. It’s the second book in the Consider series, published by Eerdmans, and is a beautiful account of the...
Are Low Paying Writing Jobs Worth It?
A writing job comes your way. The topic is something you like to write about, and the word count isn’t too bad. But there’s a lot of research involved, and the pay is lower than you’d like. Should you take it? Here are a few reasons why a low paying job may be...
Book Review: Write! Write! Write!
Join us for a book review of Write! Write! Write! by Amy Ludwig VanDerwater, a clever and colorful collection of poems for kids.
Are You Process or Outcome Focused?
Process embraces what God wants. Outcome embraces what I want.
Wild Faith Devotional for Kids by Valerie Ellis: A Book Review by Guest Blogger, Barb Seregi
Wild Faith Devotional for Kids is written by Valerie Ellis, illustrated by Jen Bricking, and published by WaterBrook, an imprint of the Penguin Random House Christian Publishing Group. This is a beautiful devotional, and, depending on who you ask, it is recommended...
Great Expectations: Refreshing Your Hope and Reigniting Your Faith in a Big God by Guest Blogger, Karen Ferguson
Let’s play pretend. Say we’ve been transported one year into the future, and you and I are talking over our favorite specialty drinks about how fast this past year flew by. You mention some of the things you enjoyed, but get quiet for a moment as you think about the...
Book Review: Guess Why God Made the Rainbow
There’s something enchanting about a rainbow—its gentle arc, its burst of color, the quiet promise it carries. In Guess Why God Made the Rainbow , author Karen Ferguson captures the wonder and wraps it in a story that speaks tenderly to children’s hearts. This is the...
The Write2Ignite Podcast: Ep. 8: Cindy Lynn Sawyer
Introducing... When Cindy Lynn Sawyer wrote The Wonder of Under, she stopped short of hiring an illustrator. After all, the cost of hiring someone to illustrate your picture book is the most expensive part of self-publishing a picture book. So you can imagine her...
Why in the World Should I Join Write2Ignite? by Pam Halter
As authors, whether you write for children or not, there are so many writers conferences, online workshops, clubs/groups, magazines, and more that you can subscribe to. Or become a member of. WHY should you become a member...
Author: Beware!
As authors, we are expected to wear several hats: writer, researcher, investigator, interviewer, blogger, marketer, to name a few. Some of us are good at the writing and researching. But the other “hats,” especially marketing, can be challenging. Many publishers also...
In the Course of Time by Mindy Baker
A few days ago, with the dawning of 2026, I found myself doing my usual reflections on the past year and committing to a fresh start for the coming year. Making lists, setting goals, etc. In my desire to connect with God, I reached for a Bible study workbook written...
Knocking on Closed Doors
The Beginning On January 16, 2008, I submitted an article retelling the events of the evening my 10-month-old son stopped breathing in the back of an ambulance. I believed the magazine I submitted the article to was a perfect fit. However, before long, I received a...
Late Today by Jungyoon Huh: A Book Review
I’ve always enjoyed stories about cats, so the cover of Late Today by Jungyoon Huh, illustrated by Myungae Lee and translated by Aerin Park (published by Eerdmans Books for Young Readers), captured my attention immediately. Summary The busy traffic on a bridge in...
Christmas Stockings and Missed Traditions by Our Intern, Aubrey Winstead
“Truce?” I turn to my sister first, but she’s already turned on me. “I’m out of ammo,” I’m barely able to squeal before she aims and fires. The bullet whizzes past me, hitting our dad in the shoulder. “Who was that?” he demands. I gesture at my uncle. Though his...
Wonders of the Ocean Realm by Tricia Goyer and Sherri Seligson: A Book Review
I always enjoy books that relate scientific or historical facts in a fun and interesting way, and Wonders of the Ocean Realm by Tricia Goyer and Sherri Seligson, illustrated by Vlad Stankovic, does just that. The authors make science come alive for kids while...
Knights in Manhattan: A Book Review by Pam Halter
Knights in Manhattan: A Reen and Joanie Detective Agency Novel (The Reen & Joanie Detective Agency Series) by Kay DiBianca Back Cover Copy A gang of tricky thieves is on the loose in Manhattan, but no need to worry. The Reen & Joanie Detective Agency is on the...
The Write2Ignite Podcast: Ep. 7: Jarm Del Boccio
Introducing... Jarm Del Boccio firmly believes in telling children stories that deal with trials and hardship. But never brutality. In her Middle Grade novel “The Heart Changer” she tells a story based on the Biblical account in 2nd Kings 5 of Naaman the Leper....
The Swirl of the Season by Marci Whitehurst
My Writing Swirls It’s easy during the Christmas season to stretch ourselves thin—even in our writing. Here’s how it happened for me: I write mostly picture books and middle grade stories, and I’m actively working on submissions for some manuscripts and...
Making Sense of Seasonal Writing
Christmas is just around the corner. Shops are full of gift ideas while carols play in the background, neighborhoods are decorated with lights and all sorts of holiday displays, cookies are baking with the wonderful smells of cinnamon, nutmeg, and gingerbread filling...
Book Review: Christmas on the Goblin Express
J.J. Fischer specializes in fantastic Christian fantasy, and her newest book, Christmas on The Goblin Express, might her most fun read yet. This cozy Christmas romantasy is the perfect book to kick off the holiday season. A Summary of the Story: To escape Christmas,...
Zachary: A Seagoing Cowboy
If you are looking for an interesting novel filled with accurate historical details about a group of volunteers who brave the Pacific Ocean on a cargo ship carrying 200, mostly pregnant goats, to help people in Japan following WWII, then Zachary: A Seagoing Cowboy should be on your To Be Read pile.
Interview with Sonja Anderson about Her New Picture Book, A Christmas Wish for Little Dala Horse: A St. Lucia Celebration
Today, I’d like to introduce Sonja Anderson and her new picture book, A Christmas Wish for Little Dala Horse: A St. Lucia Celebration (illustrated by Agnieszka Potocka) just out this fall from Tyndale Kids. This lovely story of love and hope is sure to become a...
**Bonus Post**: Two Exciting Christmas Picture Book Releases
I’m excited to share with you two unique Christmas pictures books that have released this month. As we head into the holiday season, be sure to check these out! They would make the perfect gift for the child in your life. Meanwhile, Back at the Manger by Brenda Covert...
Author Interview with Valerie Ellis
Earlier this year, I was delighted to introduce Valerie Ellis and her fun picture book, Let’s Go! Bible Adventures! to you. (In case you missed it, you can check out our interview here.) Today, Valerie is celebrating the recent launch of her middle grade devotional...
The Write2Ignite Podcast: Ep. 6: Brenda B. Covert
Introducing... When Brenda Covert took one of our Master Classes taught by Laura Sassi, she immediately had the idea for Meanwhile, Back at the Manger . A few years later, she finally has a picture book to call her own. A fun re-telling of the birth of Jesus,...
God’s Perfect Timing by Mindy Baker
But I trust in you, O LORD; I say, “you are my God.” My times are in your hands; deliver me from the hands of my enemies, from those who pursue me.” Psalm 31:14-15 NIV As a writer, have you ever felt frustrated with the timing of certain events in your life? Maybe you...
Digging Deep Into Research
What happens if you are working on a nonfiction writing assignment that prefers primary sources and/or information within 100 years or so of the event? This isn’t your ordinary research project. This means you have to Dig Deep! Here are some tips to help in your...
2 Corinthians 8: The Grace of Giving
Why does giving matter? In 2 Corinthians 8:1-15, Paul describes the grace of giving and urges the church to care for those in need.
An Outlaw Thanksgiving Book Review
An Outlaw Thanksgiving might be the book for you if you want a Thanksgiving picture book that doesn’t mention Pilgrims or turkeys .
Faithful Storytelling for Young Hearts in a Confused Culture: Part 1 by Guest Blogger, Alexia Jons
There’s a silent war happening all around us—not with guns or headlines, but with stories. In classrooms, on screens, in books, and through influencers, our children and teens are constantly absorbing narratives that shape how they see themselves, others, and God....
Author Interview with Dandi Daley Mackall by Kathy O’Neill
Dandi Daley Mackall has written fiction and nonfiction books for little ones all the way up to adults. But if you have young horse-crazy kids in your family, you may be most familiar with Dandi’s horse series for middle grade kids—the Backyard Horses series and the...
Author Interview with Robin Currie by Sue Irwin
Today, I'm excited to introduce Robin Currie to you. Robin spent her library career in the children’s department where she could baa, moo, and honk without getting shushed. Her writing engages children not only in noisemaking but also in jumping, waving, and...
The Write2Ignite Podcast: Ep. 5: Lori Z. Scott
Introducing... When Lori Z. Scott won the Christy Award in the Young Adult category, she hadn’t prepared a speech. She never thought she would win, and she almost didn’t go to the ceremony. But this wasn’t unusual, because Lori Z. Scott never wanted to write Offsides...
Soledad and the Curse of the Phoenix: A Book Review by Pam Halter
Summary This lower middle grade fantasy set in an ancient Mesoamerican world builds hope and courage rising from destruction. Soledad is a victim of the Phoenix’s evil plagues, just like the rest of her former village. But she’s also different. She’s hiding with her...
The Importance of Submission Guidelines
You’ve worked hard on your manuscript. You found a publisher that you think may like your story, and you send it out with great expectation. You wait several months. You hear nothing back, which is not uncommon nowadays. Most publishing companies only respond if...
**Bonus Post**: Introducing W2I’s New Christian Authors Reading Event (CARE) by Cindy Lynn Sawyer
The countdown is on! From Nov. 3–7, 2025, Write2Ignite will host the first-ever Christian Authors Reading Event (CARE), a week of free, faith-filled story connections for readers of all ages. What is CARE? CARE is a week-long celebration that pairs Christian...
Consider the Birds: A Book Review (and Giveaway!) by Marci Whitehurst
Consider the Birds by Jennifer Grant, illustrated by Julianna Swaney, is a lovely new book published by Eerdmans Books that utilizes the activity of birds to subtly remind kids that God sees every detail. Summary In my opinion, the story hints of the verse Matthew...
Similarity Between PT and Writing
Several years ago, I went to physical therapy. While I exercised, I was struck by the similarity I discovered between physical and writing.
Book Review: Where The Mountain Meets The Moon
In today’s review of “Where the Mountain Meets the Moon” by Grace Lin, we’re discussing the beautiful themes this story holds.
Darcy Pattison’s Master Class on Self-Publishing: Picture Books and Middle Grade: A Recap by Our Intern, Aubrey Winstead
We are so excited to introduce our intern for the Fall 2025 semester, Aubrey Winstead. Aubrey is a senior at North Greenville University and is making her debut on Write2Ignite's blog with a recap of Saturday’s Master Class. Welcome, Aubrey! We are so excited to have...
No Power? Now What?
I’m sitting at my desk, preparing to work on a big writing project. I have my notes, and my laptop is ready for me to find some additional online information. But then I notice that the livestream I was listening to has fallen silent. Streaming issues? Hmm. Next, I...
Author Interview with Tina Cho by Sue Irwin
Tina Cho is a kindergarten teacher by day and, by night, an award-winning author of six picture books and a lyrical middle grade graphic novel, The Other Side of Tomorrow , which received five starred reviews. Tina has visited us at Write2Ignite before – appearing in...
Tips for Writing More Engaging Picture Books – Part Four: Don’t Dumb It Down by Pam Halter
I have this on the author page of my website: “Children are a tough audience. You can fool an adult with persiflage or purple prose, but a kid can tell if you’re faking immediately.” Theodore Geisel (Dr. Seuss) As a children’s author, I work to write stories that...
The Write2Ignite Podcast Ep. 4: Carolyn Bennett Frasier
For every general market book written by Carolyn Bennett Fraiser, there is a companion book in the educational market. Was this an accident, or God’s plan? In this episode, I sit down with Carolyn to discuss what the educational market is, and how to break into it....
The Birds of Christmas: Book Review and Extension Activities by Mindy Baker
Author Olivia Armstrong has a new release from Eerdmans Books for Young Readers entitled The Birds of Christmas . It is beautifully illustrated by artist Mira Miroslavova and is based on a European folktale. This Christmas tale chronicles how the robin got his red...
Becoming a Problem Solver (And a Great Publisher) by Upcoming Master Class Teacher Darcy Pattison
Thirteen years ago, I decided to put all my energies into Mims House, my publishing company, and bring my books to market. I wanted to put my books into the hands of the right kids. I didn’t know that the journey would turn me into a patient, persistent problem...
Psalm 78: Tell the Next Generation
Today’s devotional on Psalm 78 focuses on our important call to tell the next generation of the wonderous works of the Lord.
Running Aground With Our Writing
How many shipwreck tales of running aground with your writing can you tell? For me, I’ve lost count.
**Bonus Post**: Making the Jump: From Hybrid Publishing to Traditional (Interview with Michael Dowling) by Sally Matheny
Today, we have a special bonus post on Michael Dowling's experience with hybrid and traditional publishing. Want to learn more? Don't miss our September Master Class with Darcy Pattison on self-publishing. Registration is now open. Interview Sally: "Teaching Sound...
Author Interview with Carolyn Bennett Fraiser by Sue Irwin
A couple of years ago, at a Write2Ignite Master Class, Wiley Blevins, Associate Publisher at Reycraft Books, presented the beautiful nonfiction picture book, Moon Tree: The Story of One Extraordinary Tree by Carolyn Bennett Fraiser . But that wasn't the first time I...
Author Interview with Darcy Pattison by Sue Irwin
Children’s book author and indie publisher Darcy Pattison has had her books translated into eleven languages, and she has received over seventy awards for her work. In September, Darcy will share tips on how to “Self-Publish Picture Books and Middle Grade Books” at...
Just Enough Room for Christmas: A Book Review by Pam Halter
It’s August, and I have another Christmas book for you! This time it’s because the release date is September 2nd. That’s 2 weeks away! Summary In a tiny barn in Bethlehem, Old Hannah the cow lives alone until the cold wind drives other animals to seek shelter. One by...
The Write2Ignite Podcast Ep. 3: Laura Sassi
If anyone was qualified to write stories for children, it would be Laura Sassi. She has worn many hats through the years: a mother, a homeschooler, a teacher, and a children’s ministry director. She also wore a special hat for our podcast episode! With over ten books...
A Phrase That Helps Us Revise by Marci Whitehurst
YES AND, A Game When I worked as a drama coach, we played a game called, “Yes and.” We’d stand in a large circle, and I’d give the students a story prompt, such as “An elephant danced in the rain.” The students would then go around the circle and add to the story in 3...
The Need for Conflict!
Are you a beginning writer or have you been working on your craft for a bit? Are you trying to develop a story, but it seems to be falling flat and you can’t figure out why? Maybe you need conflict. Here’s why. Conflict Drives the Plot Most of us don’t like conflict,...
Book Review: When I Talk to God, I Talk About You
Join us for a review of “When I Talk to God, I Talk About You” by Chrissy Metz and Bradley Collins. Illustrated by Lisa Fields
When the Writing Way is Steep
When the writing way is steep, do we concentrate on the steep incline or do we put one foot in front of the other?
Author Interview with Nancy Tupper Ling by Sue Irwin
I first discovered children’s author and poet Nancy Tupper Ling when I read her blog post on Tara Lazar's popular Storystorm event in January. Having written everything from blog posts to poems, from picture books to books for adults, Nancy has done it all! She's been...
Author Interview with Sherri Seligson by Sue Irwin
If you attended Write2Ignite's most recent Master Class, you've already been introduced to Sherri Seligson, marine biologist, homeschooling mom, author, and speaker. Today, I'm delighted to chat with Sherri about her most recent book, Wonders of the Ocean Realm...
Summary and Takeaways: The 2025 Write to Publish Conference by Kathy O’Neill
It's summer, and that means it’s writers’ conference season! A time for education, encouragement, making connections, and building friendships. Recently, four of us Write2Igniters attended the Write to Publish Conference near Chicago. We came from all over—Missouri,...
The Write2Ignite Podcast Ep. 2: Carol Baldwin
For 18 years, Carol Baldwin worked on a historical YA novel titled “Half-Truths.” Reading books, interviewing people, and visiting locations, Carol poured her heart and soul into telling the story of an unlikely relationship between two girls in 1950 North Carolina....
BOOK REVIEW: Bacon’s Very Important Christmas Job by Pam Halter
I know it’s not the Christmas season, but let’s have a little Christmas in July fun! Summary Bacon’s Very Important Christmas Job, written and illustrated by Tina Neely, is the story about Bacon, a potbelly pig who wants to help his forever family with Christmas...
Share Your Writing Skills with Others
Most of us have been writing for a while. Through the years we’ve worked on story and character development, struggled through plots, climaxes, and denouements, and even had some hard knocks trying to condense our manuscripts down to a decent word count that won’t...
Book Review of EVERY MOMENT HOLY by Mindy Baker
When my dad passed away in April 2024, a friend mailed me a copy of the devotional Every Moment Holy Volume 1 written by Douglas Kaine McKelvey and published by Rabbit Room Press. There are several volumes in the series, and I have since purchased Volume 2 which is...
Writers and Humility
As Christian writers, how do we promote our work with humility in a God-honoring way, without being pushy and in-your-face about it?
Book Review “Great Gusts: Winds of the World and the Science Behind Them”
Join us for a review of “Great Gusts: Winds of the World and the Science Behind Them” by Melanie Crowder and Megan Benedict.
Summer of Stories: A New Family Favorite with a Purpose-Driven Beginning by Cindy Lynn Sawyer
A Season of Purposeful Connection Summer is often a time of sunshine, rest, and togetherness — but it can also offer families a powerful opportunity for spiritual growth. That’s the heart behind Summer of Stories, a new faith-based initiative created by Christian...
The Gospel Story for Kids: Book Review by Sally Matheny
If you’re looking for a condensed gospel presentation to use as an affordable giveaway for children’s ministry events or something that’s lightweight for mailing, consider The Gospel Story for Kids: God’s Story of Love from Creation to Revelation by Tama Fortner. Of...
Tips for Writing More Engaging Picture Books – Part Three: Become A Kid Again! by Pam Halter
If you’re just joining this blog thread, check out my first two posts on writing engaging picture books: Part One and Part Two. How Do I Become A Kid Again? Here’s the thing. Some adults have forgotten what it was like to be a kid. They’ve grown up and gone all stiff...
Should Your Narrator be a Character?
It’s an honest question. Obviously, if you are writing first person POV, then this does not apply to you. Of course your narrator should be a character. Otherwise, it ain’t first person! But what about third person? Should your narrator have a distinct personality?...
Waiting is Part of the Journey…Don’t Waste It! by Mindy Baker
What is the one of the biggest struggles for someone who is on the book publishing journey? The most obvious answer to me is…WAITING! As writers, we all face many struggles, but one that none of us can avoid is waiting. Waiting to hear back from a potential agent,...
Writing Wisdom from Big Bertha: Part 2
Hello Friends! Guest blogger Big Bertha here with a second installment of Writing Wisdom. This month’s topic? The Importance of Being Broody. Broody by Definition Some people think to be broody means to sulk or to be in a mood. I guess, it could mean that, but to us...
The Write2Ignite Podcast Ep. 1: Jenny L. Cote
We are excited to announce that The Write2Ignite Podcast has officially dropped! You can listen to it on Spotify, Apple, Amazon, YouTube, iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts. New episodes drop every month, so be sure to keep an eye opened for more episodes....
Refuge and Rest in the Lord
Where do we find our refuge and rest in times of trouble? Where do we find hope when problems come our way?
Is Your Writing a Good Fit?
If we use the writing armor God gave us to write for God’s glory, whatever we write, will always be a good fit.
Offsides by Lori Z. Scott: A Book Review by Kathryn Dover
One of my favorite books in elementary school was Meghan Rose Has Ants in Her Pants by Lori Z. Scott. When I heard that she also writes YA novels, I was curious to see how they would compare. I was excited to find out that her sense of humor carries over to her most...
Author Interview with Chelsea Tornetto by Sue Irwin
I’m delighted to introduce you to Chelsea Tornetto today. Chelsea is the author of several picture books, a freelance editor, and an author coach. Welcome, Chelsea! Thanks for joining us to discuss your newly-launched picture book, Chalk the Walk (illustrated by...
God’s Perfect Peace: A Picture Book Review by Cindy Lynn Sawyer
Some books feel like a gift — and God's Perfect Peace by Glenys Nellist is one of those rare treasures. It’s more than just a bedtime story; it’s a beautifully written and illustrated blessing and invitation to rest in God’s love and peace. Honestly, it’s the kind of...
Two Kinds of Children’s Books
There are two kinds of children's books: the kind that grownups want children to read and the kind that children want to read. As adults, we may be tempted to write the first type of book. The kind that gets Newberry and Caldecott medals. The kind that ends up on...
Tips for Writing More Engaging Picture Books – Part Two: Getting A Kid’s Attention by Pam Halter
Last month, I gave some general tips on writing picture books. Today, I want to look deeper into the craft. What You Need to Know First Our competition is fierce. Most beginning writers think starting with picture books is good because they’re short. In a way, they’re...
Writing Wisdom from Big Bertha
Guest blogger, Big Bertha here, straight from the hen house with some tips to help further your writing career. Today’s topic? Setting up that perfect writing spot. Look for limited distractions I don’t know about you, but sharing a chicken coop with 22 hens and 2 up...
3 Benefits of Beta Reading and Book Reviewing
Have you ever considered beta reading or book reviewing? Check out 3 benefits of being a beta reader or book reviewer.
We Take the Land of Writing Little by Little
We take the land of writing little by little. Just as the Israelites did when they entered the Promised Land after their exodus from Egypt.
REMMY’S STICKY SITUATION by Cindy Lynn Sawyer, illustrated by Jasmine Wall: A Book Review by Marci Whitehurst
THE SYNOPSIS Remmy Raccoon is excited because the fair is in town—and that means carnival food! He is very hungry. He dumpster dives to find his favorite munchables, but don’t worry, he always washes them before eating. When he finds a pink, fluffy confectionary...
Joyce Moyer Hostetter’s Master Class: The Story Safari
This past Saturday was our Master Class hosted by Joyce Moyer Hostetter: The Story Safari: Tracking Down the Story Through Research, Focus, and Revision. I read her Bakers Mountain series several years ago and thoroughly enjoyed it, so I was excited to get to learn...
Author Interview with Bitsy Kemper by Sue Irwin
Today, I’m thrilled to welcome Bitsy Kemper to Write2Ignite. Known in the children’s book industry for her generosity in sharing her list of Publishers Accepting Children’s Books – No Agent Needed, and The 31-Day Author Platform Challenge, Bitsy is a wife, mother of...
Writing for the Ear
In my multimedia journalism class, our professor talked about “writing for the ear.” If you’re unfamiliar with the term, writing for the ear is when you write something that is meant to be spoken or performed rather than read silently. My Shakespeare professor taught...
Tips for Writing More Engaging Picture Books – Part One by Pam Halter
In all the years I’ve been a freelance children’s book editor, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard how people want to write picture books because they’re short … and easy. “HA!” I’d say. (And I had to keep myself from slapping them and saying, “Snap out of...
Take a Break!
Life can get crazy sometimes. Obligations, unexpected circumstances, appointments, and just living life in general can keep our plates full. This craziness can definitely hinder our writing, especially if deadlines are looming. I suggest, it’s time to take a break! A...
Is Your Writing Hidden From View?
Sometimes, we might feel as if our writing efforts, and God’s favor on them, are stuck behind a cloud, hidden from view.
Review of Guess Who Is in God’s Family
In Karen Ferguson’s newest picture book, Guess Who Is in God’s Family, Papa Joe once again opens God’s Word to satisfy Lucy’s curiosity about her family. Papa Joe explains God’s creation of the very first family, and that we all came from this first family in gentle,...
Half-Truths by Carol Baldwin: A Book Review by Kathryn Dover
As I’ve said before, I enjoy reading historical fiction novels, and I was especially excited to get to read an ARC of Half-Truths by Carol Baldwin. I first met Mrs. Baldwin at a Write2Ignite conference in 2018, and she walked me through writing my first book review...
The Other Side of Sunshine: A Book Review by Pam Halter
I am delighted to bring you my review for The Other Side of Sunshine by Kay DiBianca. This story is a middle grade mystery (ages 9-12), but with a protagonist who is only 10-years-old, kids on the younger side of middle grade will enjoy it. I think older kids will...
The Craft of Prewriting
There is nothing more painful as a writer, than staring at the blank page, with your mind even blanker. Some people call this writer’s block, some people say writer’s block doesn’t even exist. But neither of these offers a solution. Today, I’ll offer mine: prewriting....
Barnaby the Runaway Sheep (A Parable of the Lost Sheep) Book Review and Extension Activities by Mindy Baker
Barnaby the Runaway Sheep, written by Maria Antonia and illustrated by Sayani Mukherjee, is a endearing picture book about a sheep who must learn to trust his shepherds. Barnaby is afraid of having his wool snipped so he does everything he can to avoid it. First, he...





























































































