April 2026 Master Class
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"Sand cake, sun cake, sprinkle-topped-with-rocks cake. Will you eat what I baked?" --Sand Cakes by Kallie George A Summary of Sand Cakes Kallie George's picture book Sand Cakes tells the story of a creative young baker who turns sand into tasty treats. She makes cakes...
A One-Sided Relationship One-sided relationships are challenging especially for children and their pets, and Johan Leynaud captures these feelings perfectly in his book Arthur’s Cat, translated from French by Sarah Ardizzone. Leynaud’s simple color palette of pastels...
A Simple Idea That Feels So Full There’s something really special about a story that feels simple on the surface but carries something deeper underneath—and The Missing Piece by Megan K. Palmer quietly does exactly that. From the beginning, I was drawn into the image...
"Down in the garden , just under the ground, a small wriggly worm is crawling around."--Worms Are Our Friends by Toni D'Alia April slipped in yesterday, with spring trailing close behind. This time of year, flowers boldly bloom on the trees, grass tentatively peeks up...
Author Kathleen Bostrom has a new release from Tommy Nelson entitled See What God Made. Beautifully illustrated by artist Janet Samuel, it is an engaging and colorful lift-the-flap board book. The charming text leads the readers through each day of the biblical...
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?
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...
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...
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...
Join us for a book review of Write! Write! Write! by Amy Ludwig VanDerwater, a clever and colorful collection of poems for kids.
Process embraces what God wants. Outcome embraces what I want.
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...
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...
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 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...
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...
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 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...
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,...
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.
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...
An Outlaw Thanksgiving might be the book for you if you want a Thanksgiving picture book that doesn’t mention Pilgrims or turkeys .
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...
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...
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...
Several years ago, I went to physical therapy. While I exercised, I was struck by the similarity I discovered between physical and writing.
In today’s review of “Where the Mountain Meets the Moon” by Grace Lin, we’re discussing the beautiful themes this story holds.
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...
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...
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...
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...
How many shipwreck tales of running aground with your writing can you tell? For me, I’ve lost count.
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...
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...
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, do we concentrate on the steep incline or do we put one foot in front of the other?
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...
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....
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...
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...
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?
Join us for a review of “Great Gusts: Winds of the World and the Science Behind Them” by Melanie Crowder and Megan Benedict.
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...
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...
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,...
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....
Where do we find our refuge and rest in times of trouble? Where do we find hope when problems come our way?
If we use the writing armor God gave us to write for God’s glory, whatever we write, will always be a good fit.
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...
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...
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...
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. Just as the Israelites did when they entered the Promised Land after their exodus from Egypt.
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...
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...
Sometimes, we might feel as if our writing efforts, and God’s favor on them, are stuck behind a cloud, hidden from view.
Join us for a discussion of Romans 12, focusing on worship through living and writing, led by the Spirit of the Lord.
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,...
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...
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...
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...
Join us for a book review of “Children of the Fog”, Pam Zollman’s character driver, middle grade fantasy novel.
Tackling writing tasks can overwhelm. At least that’s been my experience. So let’s look at some steps to help us tackle them.
Today, I have the privilege of meeting with Laura Sassi to celebrate the launch of her latest picture book, Faithful Feet (illustrated by Emauela Di Donna, published by Worthy Kids). Author Laura Sassi Interview Sue: Hi, Laura. Welcome back to Write2Ignite, and...
In Guess How Much God Loves You author Karen Ferguson reminds little Lucy, and other kids five to seven years old, that God created them because He loves them.
Have you strapped God into the co-pilot’s seat of your writing? If so, switch seats. Let God be the Pilot in Command.
Kids are full of questions, aren’t they? It’s because they are blessed with a natural curiosity and wonder which many adults outgrow. Those recurring “What?” “When?” “Where? “How?” and “Why? questions form the basis of how they learn and understand new things....
Maisie Discovers Her Fingerprint written by Sandra Kay Chambers is a picture book written to help children understand that God created each of us in a unique and special way. Children will enjoy the repetitive text and will soon join in with the “Yes, Yes, Yes” and...
A few months ago, I heard Valerie Ellis speak at a webinar for children’s book writers. When I heard the title of her upcoming book, I couldn’t wait to learn more about it. Today, I’m happy to introduce Valerie and to join her in celebrating the launch of Let's Go!...
Axe Throwing Have you ever participated in axe throwing? I have. Multiple times, and I love it. There's even a World Axe Throwing League. Who knew? Hurling axes at a wooden target and scoring multiple bull’s eyes, what's not to love? Of course, there are just as many,...
In this children’s book, Clem the Clumsy Camel, we learn the story of a clumsy camel named Clem. Poor Clem. It seems he had quite the problem. Especially for a camel.
This week, I had the privilege of interviewing Amy Houts. I met Amy a couple of years ago at my first-ever Write2Ignite Master Class, and I’m happy to reconnect with her now as she celebrates the release of her two most recent books, The Creation and Noah’s Ark...
A Turkey for Thanksgiving, by Eve Bunting and illustrated by Diane de Groat, is the perfect picture book to read for Thanksgiving.
What comes to your mind when you read the name of Laura Ingalls Wilder? Does it carry you back to when you were captivated by the freckle-faced little girl with braided pigtails from the popular television show Little House on the Prairie? Or does it warm your...
Fingerprint Devotions: 40 Devotions To Help You Realize You Are a Kid Uniquely Created by God for a Purpose by Sandra Kay Chambers is a devotional to help kids understand the importance of their connection with God. With a fun lesson each day, there’s so much to...
Creepy Pair of Underwear by Aaron Reynolds (Author) and Peter Brown (Illustrator) Summary Jasper Rabbit is NOT a little bunny anymore. He’s not afraid of the dark, and he’s definitely not afraid of something as silly as underwear. But when the lights go out, suddenly...
When I was in elementary school, we were taught how to create an outline. I remember having to break things down using Roman Numerals, then capital letters, and so on. To be honest, I hated that type of work. What I thought were important facts and summations, my...
Today I’ll cover several writing nuggets DiAnn shares about the power of setting, story pacing, and developing a writer’s voice.
I was excited to interview Laura Sassi back in October when her book, My Tender Heart Prayer Book, was launched. If you haven’t yet seen that, I encourage you to check it out here and find a review here. (You can also find a review of My Tender Heart Bible here.) This...
With school in full swing, now is the perfect time to check out another picture book: We Don't Eat Our Classmates by Ryan T. Higgins. Summary It’s Penelope Rex’s first day of school, and she can’t wait to meet her classmates. But making friends is hard when they’re so...
Natalee Creech demonstrates how she revised a stanza in one of her picture books.
Join us for a review of “Seraphina”, a young adult fantasy by Rachel Hartman.
Exploring the Art of Plotting Part One In Exploring the Art of Plotting , DiAnn Mills pulls from her years of studying the craft of writing, along with her experience penning multiple award-winning novels, to educate writers on the many twists and turns of plotting....
“Nothing!” by Natalee Creech and Joseph Cowman, published in 2019 by Worthy Kids, explores the reassuring message of Romans 8:38-39 from a child’s perspective. The book beautifully combines captivating illustrations and lyrical language to convey the unbreakable love of God. With engaging scenarios and literary techniques, it enhances both children’s imaginations and their understanding of God’s love.
Our next master class is coming up soon! On September 28, Natalee Creech will speak about lyrical language in prose. In thinking about this topic, let’s look at some examples of lyrical language in different types of literature. The House of the Seven Gables Nathaniel...
I’ve got about a dozen unfinished stories. When I look back to see why I gave up on the story (sometimes mid-sentence), I discovered most of them died out around chapter three. I was shocked. What was so hard about chapter three? Why would I give up so easily? As I...
Mimosa Trees Have you ever compared mimosa trees and writers' dreams? I have. Several years ago, I attended a writers’ conference in North Carolina. While driving with my husband from our home in Texas, north through Alabama on Interstate 85, my husband and I looked...
Join us for a book review of Michelle Weltz’s new picture book, Miraculous Sky; a story based on true events.
Writing a synopsis is hard. Don’t let anyone kid you. I struggle with this task, but it doesn’t have to overwhelm you. I’ve found that I can brainstorm my synopsis in the same way I brainstorm or revise my books, or do developmental edits for my publishers. Here are...
Introduction Since this book is written for adults to read to children, or for children to read themselves, I thought it would be fun to have an adult's POV on the book as well as two children's opinions. The author of the book, Bill Edgar, is my oldest daughter's...
One of my favorite genres to read is historical fiction, specifically World War II novels (check out my previous review of Until Leaves Fall in Paris ), so I was excited to get to be a part of the ARC team for The Stars We Hold by Melissa Armstrong. I’ve never read a...
REVIEW Butterfly Ink is the newest young adult romance from Monarch Educational Services by Lori Keating and it’s perfect for a summer vacation read. Meet Calista: a teen about to have all her wishes come true through a magical tattoo made of butterfly...
I Dream a Dream for You by Bob Hostetler is a sweet board book of bedtime rhymes to read to little ones. This love-filled picture book of dreams and hopes can be shared with the toddlers and young children in your life. REVIEW Full of bold illustrations, I Dream a...
In our recent Master Class on fantasy, author Amy Earls provided important tools for writing YA and MG fantasy. Today, team member Deborah S. DeCiantis gives her perspective (from many years of being an English college professor) to understanding classic fantasy. ...
Ask The Right Question Marketing 101 for an author: know thy audience. In my writing workshops, I love to ask kids to raise their hands high if they love researching history. There are always a few budding history geeks with eager hands in the air, aglow with the idea...
Join us for a review of Kathleen Long Bostrom’s newest picture book, “Daddy, Tell Me a Story”, a perfect bedtime read.
The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands. Psalm 19:1 REVIEW Annette Whipple certainly demonstrates this Bible verse in new devotional book for children. Annette, one of Write2Ignite's former Master Class instructors, is a...
If you’ve been in the writing business for any length of time, you know how valuable a critique partner is. The Bible says in Proverbs 16:24, “Kind words are like honey—sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.” I have found that my critique partners are the honey...
In conjunction with our Master Class on Saturday, I plan to share reviews of other YA or MG fantasy novels. Some may have explicit Christian content such as Amy Earls' FORBIDDEN REIGN, but others like today's book, MAGGIE AND THE MOUNTAIN OF LIGHT by Mark Snoad, might...
Did you miss our master class on Writing Christian Fantasy with Amy Earls? Check out our recap of the master class highlights.