Did you know the cherubim that guard the Garden of Eden have four faces – that of an ox, human, lion, and eagle? You’ll find their description in Ezekiel 10:14, and it’s quite different from most angels you’ll see in traditional children’s books. But you will see them beautifully illustrated in this second installment in the Questions for Kids picture book series, all about the First Family in the Garden of Eden.

You see, my mission from the very beginning has been to present accurate biblical accounts to young readers that are foundational to increasing their understanding of the Bible and growing a solid faith in God.  Kids are bombarded with so many counterfeit messages these days that contradict the Bible, and it’s leaving them confused and hopeless. Is truth relative? Absolutely not! The real Truth lies in God’s Word, and I am grateful to play a part in counteracting the lies of our culture by presenting Truths straight from the Bible, in a fun and dynamic way.

In this book (and book series), you won’t find a regurgitation of Bible facts (that never worked for me as a child). Rather, you’ll find a young girl with many questions about God and life, much like our own children and grandchildren. And you’ll find her loving grandpa who is happy to answer those questions by pointing her to the Word of God. Their adventures into unique periods in Bible history, driven by some serious 7-year old questions, will help pull young readers into the narrative and connect the Bible to their world. It’ll also open doors to faith-building conversations with parents, grandparents, caregivers, and teachers.

The hardest part of writing these books? Keeping it short enough to fit into the picture book category ;).

I pray you and your young reader will be blessed as you journey with Lucy and her Papa Joe into the Bible to discover God’s power, His faithfulness, and His never-ending love.

Author Interview

• What is your favorite genre of books? Why?

This has changed somewhat over the years, but my longest standing favorite is suspense. This includes mystery and thrillers. I’m drawn to them because I find the mysterious and adrenaline laced plots very exciting. I’m pulled in by the tension in the storyline that keeps me waiting expectantly for the next surprising twist.

• How do you relax after a long day of writing?

Movement! I’m a mover by nature, so sitting (or standing) at the desk too long drains me. When I’ve completed my time at the desk, the best thing I can do is take a walk in nature, or do an exercise video. Anything to get the blood pumping and to release those stiff muscles.

• Who is your favorite author? Why?

This is a tough one, but I’ll go back to my early days reading Christian fiction. I had been a huge fan of Stephen King for years, and honestly almost gave up on Christian fiction as I found it a little boring. It goes back to my favorite genre being suspense. I was expecting adrenaline-pumping mystery and thrilling twists and turns. The books I read at the time just didn’t deliver. Then I discovered Ted Dekker. I couldn’t put his books down. So fast paced, exciting, mysterious, and well, thrilling! I also appreciate how he brings his stories back to the light, even with some of his darker plots. He brings it back to God’s truth, and that’s really what pulls me in.

• Do you have extensive outlines when writing or do you write a book as you go?

I mostly write as I go. I’ve considered myself a ‘pantser’ from the very beginning, although I am working to move toward more of a hybrid strategy. I still avoid extensive outlines, but I do try to begin writing with a loose outline. I have found that it helps to eliminate the number of revisions and time spent editing.

• What do you need in your writing space to help you stay focused?

I need a cup of something beside me. Coffee, tea, or water will do. Just something to sip on as I write. I also need bright light, preferably coming in through the windows. I like to take micro breaks throughout my writing day, and it helps to be able to look out a window into nature.