BookWorthy

When Horses Teach Us About Hope: A Conversation with Kathryn O’Neill

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, author Kathy O'Neill shares her journey from horse-loving kid to author of 'Hoofprints of Hope,' a devotional blending faith and science for young readers. Discover her insights on the spiritual lessons from horses, her writing process, and her involvement with Right to Ignite. See the Blog Version of this post at www.valeriefentress.com/blog Kathy O'Neill | Author, Speaker, Art Educator Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hoof Prince of Hope 02:37 The Connection Between Horses and Faith 05:17 Writing for Children: A Journey from Teaching 08:06 Lessons from Horses: Patience and God's Presence 10:32 The Role of Writing in Kathy's Life 13:15 Right to Ignite: Supporting Christian Children's Writers 15:55 Future Projects and Closing Thoughts Let's discover great books together! Follow for more: FB: @bookworthypodcast Instagram: @bookworthy_podcast YouTube: BookWorthy Podcast - YouTube tiktok: @valeriefentress

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How Fairy Tales Inspire Modern YA Fantasy with Angie Dickerson

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, author Angie Dickerson discusses her YA fantasy novel 'The Star Blessed,' her inspiration from fairy tales like Rumpelstiltskin and Catskin, and her journey as a writer. She shares insights into world-building, themes of courage and hope, and her love for retelling fairy tales. See this Episode's Blog post Here: www.valeriefentress.com/blog Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Fairy Tale Retellings 02:01 Exploring The Star Blessed 04:07 Character Development and Personal Experiences 06:48 Themes of Sacrifice and Perseverance 09:18 The Journey of Writing YA Fantasy 11:24 The Allure of Fairy Tale Retellings 14:47 Impactful Books and Their Influence 17:43 Looking Ahead: Future Projects Let's discover great books together! Follow for more: FB: @bookworthypodcast Instagram: @bookworthy_podcast YouTube: BookWorthy Podcast - YouTube tiktok: @valeriefentress

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Art, Faith, and Self Discovery with Carolyn Leiloglou

Send us Fan Mail Full Transcripts available at http://www.valeriefentress.com/blog Carolyn Leiloglou discusses her middle-grade series, The Restorationists, and the inspiration behind it. The series takes place in a world where art is powerful and paintings are portals. The first book, Beneath This Rolling Sky, follows Vincent as he discovers his family's role as Restorationists and tries to protect his sister. The second book, Between Flowers and Bones, shifts to Georgia's perspective as she grapples with her own insecurities and learns the value of her unique gifts. Carolyn shares her own journey as a writer and the impact of books like The Chronicles of Narnia. She also emphasizes the importance of creativity and encourages kids to embrace their own creative abilities. The Restorationist Book 1: Beneath the Swirling Sky Takeaways The Restorationists is a middle-grade series that explores a world where art is powerful, and paintings are portals. The first book, Beneath This Rolling Sky, follows Vincent as he discovers his family's role as Restorationists and tries to protect his sister. The second book, Between Flowers and Bones, shifts to Georgia's perspective as she grapples with her own insecurities and learns the value of her unique gifts. Carolyn emphasizes the importance of creativity and encourages kids to embrace their own creative abilities. Books like The Chronicles of Narnia have had a profound impact on Carolyn's life and inspired her own writing journey. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Random Question 03:00 The Restorationists: A Middle-Grade Adventure 08:02 Embracing Creativity: Lessons from The Restorationists 11:46 The Power of Art: Inspiration and Impact 21:37 Future of The Restorationists and Where to Find Carolyn Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! Follow for more: FB: @bookworthypodcast Instagram: @bookworthy_podcast YouTube: BookWorthy Podcast - YouTube tiktok: @valeriefentress

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The Great Advantage of Faith in Fantasy with Megan Schaulis

Send us Fan Mail Full Transcripts available at http://www.valeriefentress.com/blog In this episode, author Megan Schaulis discusses her YA duology, The Susa Chronicles. Book One, Protector, is inspired by the book of Esther and follows the story of Novalice, a brave heroine who becomes the king's bodyguard. Book Two, Proclaimer, is set to release in April. Megan shares how her faith and personal experiences influenced the writing of the series, emphasizing the importance of our relationship with God and the labels He gives us. She also discusses her love for YA literature and the impact it can have on young adults' journey of self-discovery and faith. Takeaways The Susa Chronicles is a YA duology inspired by the book of Esther, with Book One, Protector, already released and Book Two, Proclaimer, set to release in April. The series explores themes of faith, identity, and the importance of our relationship with God. Megan emphasizes that our faith is our greatest advantage and that our identity is defined by God, not the labels the world gives us. YA literature plays a significant role in helping young adults navigate their journey of self-discovery and faith. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to The Susa Chronicles 04:46 The Plot of Protector 09:21 The Power of Our Relationship with God 13:41 Megan's Journey as an Author 15:43 Favorite Books and Impactful Reads 21:31 What's Next for Megan 23:38 Conclusion Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! Follow for more: FB: @bookworthypodcast Instagram: @bookworthy_podcast YouTube: BookWorthy Podcast - YouTube tiktok: @valeriefentress

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How to Help Kids Take Jesus to School with April Graney

Send us Fan Mail The blog version of this episode is available at www.valeriefentress.com/blog In this episode of Book Worthy, Valerie interviews author April Graney about her latest book, 'If Jesus Came to My School.' The conversation explores the themes of kindness, support in public schools, and the importance of instilling values in children. April shares her experiences as a middle school teacher and her journey as a writer, emphasizing the impact of literature on young minds. The discussion also touches on favorite books and resources for parents navigating the challenges of public schooling. If Jesus Came to My School Takeaways April Graney's book encourages children to embody the values of Jesus. The importance of kindness and support in school environments. Children can be a light in dark places through their actions. Literature can play a significant role in shaping young minds. Public schools can be a mission field for families. April's writing journey began with a childhood desire to be an author. The significance of having conversations about bullying with children. Support for families in public schools is crucial. Picture books can communicate profound truths in simple ways. Organizations exist to help parents and teachers navigate public schooling. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to April Graney and Her Book 03:10 The Impact of Jesus in Schools 06:12 Supporting Families in Public Schools 09:04 April's Writing Journey 12:00 Favorite Books and Their Influence 18:04 Future Projects and Resources for Parents Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! Follow for more: FB: @bookworthypodcast Instagram: @bookworthy_podcast YouTube: BookWorthy Podcast - YouTube tiktok: @valeriefentress

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The Mythmakers, the Magic, and the Making of a Creative Life: A Replay Conversation with John Hendrix

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Valerie interviews John Hendrix, a New York Times bestselling illustrator and author of children's books. They discuss his latest book, 'The Mythmakers,' which explores the friendship between C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien and their impact on storytelling and literature. They also talk about the power of myth and fantasy, the complexities of friendship, and the importance of community for artists. John shares his advice for parents of creative children and gives a sneak peek into his upcoming projects. Takeaways The Mythmakers explores the friendship between C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien and their influence on storytelling and literature. Myth and fantasy have the power to convey truth and engage readers of all backgrounds. Friendship can be complex, and it's important to have mutual respect and love even when disagreements arise. Artists should embrace their interests and create work that is interesting and engaging, regardless of whether it is explicitly faith-based. Encourage children's creativity by providing them with art supplies and opportunities to practice and share their work. Art doesn't have to be perfect; it's about the process and expression. Community is essential for artists, and being part of a supportive creative community can enhance one's work. John Hendrix has upcoming projects, including the release of The Mythmakers and a follow-up to his book Drawing is Magic. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview 04:47 The Power of Myth and Fantasy in Storytelling 12:45 Navigating the Complexities of Friendship 23:30 Encouraging Children's Artistic Journey 28:13 Upcoming Projects: 'The Mythmakers' and More Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! Follow for more: FB: @bookworthypodcast Instagram: @bookworthy_podcast YouTube: BookWorthy Podcast - YouTube tiktok: @valeriefentress

Embracing Imperfection with Leslie Coleburn

Send us Fan Mail 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 Bookworthy, Valerie interviews children's author Leslie Colburn about her latest picture book, Jilly Goat. They discuss the inspiration behind the book, the importance of embracing imperfection, and the journey of becoming an author. Leslie shares her favorite books and their impact on her writing, as well as her future projects, including a devotional for grief. The conversation highlights the significance of representation in children's literature and the values of acceptance and love. Cross My Heart Books by Leslie Colburn – encouragement, walking in faith, re-gifting love Join BookWorthy's Summer Reading Challenge Takeaways Leslie's book, Jilly Goat, is inspired by her late mother. The story emphasizes the importance of acceptance and embracing imperfections. Children need to see themselves in characters to connect with stories. Leslie's journey as an author began with writing love letters to her daughters. The fainting goat character symbolizes overcoming challenges and finding humor in life. Illustrations play a crucial role in bringing stories to life for children. Leslie's favorite childhood book was Ramona Quimby, Age 8, which inspired her love for reading. Mary Poppins represents the idea of perfection that is unattainable. Leslie is working on a 21-day devotional for grief to help other mothers. The importance of pre-ordering books to support authors and visibility. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Leslie Colburn and Jilly Goat 02:40 The Heart Behind Jilly Goat 05:33 Lessons from Jilly Goat 08:15 Leslie's Journey as an Author 10:54 Favorite Books and Inspirations 13:38 Future Projects and Devotionals 16:22 Conclusion and Where to Find Leslie Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! Follow for more: FB: @bookworthypodcast Instagram: @bookworthy_podcast YouTube: BookWorthy Podcast - YouTube tiktok: @valeriefentress

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Self‑Publishing Truths, Yeti Wizards, and Raising Readers with Theresa Villarreal

Send us Fan Mail 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 Book Worthy, Valerie interviews children's author Theresa Marie Villarreal, who discusses her Adventures in Oculus series, a middle-grade portal fantasy with Christian undertones. They explore the inspiration behind the series, the importance of storytelling, and the need to inspire young readers. Theresa also shares insights about her podcast, The Storytellers Shelf, which aims to demystify the publishing process for both traditional and self-published authors. The conversation touches on the challenges of self-publishing, favorite books, and exciting future projects. Meet Author Theresa Maria Villarreal Join BookWorthy's Summer Reading Challenge Takeaways Theresa's writing journey began after the birth of her first child. The Adventures in Oculus series blends imagination with Christian themes. Theresa aims for her books to grow with the reader. The importance of seeking truth and courage in storytelling. The Storytellers Shelf podcast focuses on inspiring literacy in children. Self-publishing authors face unique challenges in the industry. Quality should be prioritized over quantity in writing. Theresa's favorite book is Anne of Green Gables, which inspires her writing. The Storytellers Shelf is expanding into a publishing house. Theresa is working on new projects, including picture books and chapter books. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Theresa Marie and Her Journey 07:15 The Adventures in Oculus: A Portal Fantasy 12:58 Themes of Truth and Friendship in Writing 14:19 The Storytellers Shelf Podcast: Inspiring Young Readers 18:49 Demystifying Self-Publishing 22:23 Favorite Books and Inspirations 23:45 Future Projects and Exciting Developments Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! Follow for more: FB: @bookworthypodcast Instagram: @bookworthy_podcast YouTube: BookWorthy Podcast - YouTube tiktok: @valeriefentress

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Season 9 Bonus: Celebrating Christmas in July with Sonia Anderson

Send us Fan Mail 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 Bookworthy, host Valerie interviews children's author Sonja Anderson about her book 'A Christmas Wish for a Little Dala Horse.' They discuss the inspiration behind the story, the incorporation of Swedish traditions, and the deeper messages of love and acceptance within the narrative. Sonja shares her journey to becoming an author, her favorite books, and her future writing projects, all while celebrating the joy of storytelling and the magic of Christmas. Sonja Anderson Join BookWorthy's Summer Reading Challenge Takeaways Sonja's book is inspired by her Swedish heritage. The story incorporates Swedish vocabulary and traditions. Sonja's husband supported her writing journey with thoughtful gifts. The message of the book emphasizes love and acceptance. Sonja's childhood experiences shaped her desire to write. She aims to help children understand diverse backgrounds. Sonja's favorite book is 'Heidi' by Johanna Spyri. She has several picture books in progress with her agent. Sonja won a writing contest for her novel set in Japan. The podcast celebrates the joy of reading and storytelling. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sonja Anderson and Her Work 02:43 The Inspiration Behind 'A Christmas Wish for a Little Dala Horse' 05:26 Exploring Swedish Traditions in the Story 08:20 The Message of Love and Acceptance 11:11 Sonja's Journey to Becoming an Author 13:35 The Impact of Childhood Experiences on Writing 16:28 Future Projects and Aspirations 19:08 Favorite Books and Their Influence 21:59 Conclusion and Where to Find Sonja's Work Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! Follow for more: FB: @bookworthypodcast Instagram: @bookworthy_podcast YouTube: BookWorthy Podcast - YouTube tiktok: @valeriefentress

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Unveiling Cultures: A Conversation with Jenny Marcelene

Send us Fan Mail 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 Book Worthy, Valerie interviews author Jenny Marcelene about her international adventure series for children, 'The Dreamer.' Jenny shares her passion for connecting families with God's heart for the world through literature, drawing from her experiences living overseas in various cultures. The conversation explores the importance of understanding and respecting different cultures, the role of prayer in supporting unreached people groups, and practical ways families can incorporate global awareness into their daily lives. Jenny also discusses her journey to becoming an author and the impact of influential books on her writing. Jenny Marcelene Join the Summer Reading Challenge- Never too late to start a good thing Takeaways Jenny's book series aims to connect families with God's heart for the world. There is a gap in Christian literature for chapter books for kids ages 6-10. Cultural understanding can help reduce fear and promote curiosity. Prayer is essential for supporting unreached people groups. Families can incorporate global awareness into their daily lives. Jenny's experiences living overseas shaped her writing and perspective. Christian fiction can be impactful and beautifully crafted. It's important to approach different cultures with respect and curiosity. God's glory is meant to be shared with all nations. Writing a book can be a journey of faith and learning. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jenny Marcelin and Her Book 02:18 The Heart Behind 'The Dreamer' 04:28 Cultural Insights from Living Overseas 08:18 Understanding Afghanistan and Its Beauty 09:39 The Concept of Unreached People Groups 11:40 Incorporating Global Awareness in Family Life 18:20 Jenny's Journey to Becoming an Author 22:05 Impactful Books and Future Projects Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! Follow for more: FB: @bookworthypodcast Instagram: @bookworthy_podcast YouTube: BookWorthy Podcast - YouTube tiktok: @valeriefentress

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A Journey of Self-Acceptance and Faith with Elizabeth Lizu

Send us Fan Mail 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 Book Worthy, host Valerie interviews author Elizabeth Lizu, who discusses her journey as a writer and the themes of her children's books, with a particular focus on faith, self-acceptance, and emotional growth. Elizabeth shares insights into her character Caden, the importance of prayer in daily life, and her aspirations for future writing projects. The conversation underscores the importance of instilling faith in children from a young age and the influence of literature on personal growth. Elizabeth Lizu Join BookWorthy's Summer Reading Challenge Takeaways Elizabeth Lizu emphasizes the importance of children accepting themselves. Her book series focuses on faith and emotional growth for kids. Caden's Adventures teaches trust in God and patience. Prayer is a daily practice in Elizabeth's family. She aims to connect children with their daily experiences through her writing. Elizabeth started writing poetry during the COVID era. Her writing journey began in childhood, fueled by a love for literature. She believes in writing as a ministry to spread God's word. The feedback from her first book inspired her to continue writing. Elizabeth plans to expand the Caden series with more books. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Elizabeth Lizu and Her Mission 01:47 Exploring Cadence Adventures with Faith 05:44 The Importance of Prayer in Daily Life 07:02 Addressing Children's Emotional and Spiritual Needs 09:58 The Journey of Writing and Inspiration 13:43 Favorite Books and Their Impact 16:16 Future Projects and Where to Find Elizabeth 17:37 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! Follow for more: FB: @bookworthypodcast Instagram: @bookworthy_podcast YouTube: BookWorthy Podcast - YouTube tiktok: @valeriefentress

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Navigating Grief with Faith as a Family with Diane Nienas

Send us Fan Mail 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 The conversation explores the profound experiences of Diane Nienas, who shares her family's journey through significant loss and hardship. Central to this narrative is her son Leo, who began having visions of Jesus at a young age, which played a crucial role in preparing the family for the challenges they faced. The overarching theme is one of hope and inspiration amidst grief, highlighting the importance of family support during difficult times. Diane Nienas - Hope - Faith - Courage Join BookWorthy's Summer Reading Challenge Takeaways Introduction to Diane and her books. The family experienced the loss of eight members in seven years. Leo prepared the family for upcoming hardships. The journey opened their eyes in beautiful ways. The story is one of hope amidst heartache. It was not just meant for them, but to inspire others. Family support is crucial during times of grief. Diane emphasizes the importance of encouragement. The experiences were transformative for the family. Hope can emerge from the darkest times. Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! Follow for more: FB: @bookworthypodcast Instagram: @bookworthy_podcast YouTube: BookWorthy Podcast - YouTube tiktok: @valeriefentress

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How Stories Shape a Nation: Jenny L. Cote on Faith, History, and America’s 250th Birthday

Send us Fan Mail Join Valerie and award-winning author Jenny L. Cote as they explore the inspiring stories behind America's founding, biblical principles in history, and how to engage children with faith-based historical storytelling. Discover how Jenny's revolutionary series brings history to life through faith, research, and storytelling to inspire the next generation. Epic Order Of The Seven | United States | Jenny L. Cote BookWorthy's Patriotic Book List Chapters 00:00 Celebrating America's 250th Birthday 02:04 Inspiration Behind Epic Order of the Seven 03:10 Transitioning from Biblical to Revolutionary Storytelling 05:16 The Importance of History in Education 06:59 Lesser-Known Revolutionary Figures 10:24 The Role of France in American Independence 11:55 Rediscovering America's Founding Truths 14:09 Engaging Kids with History 15:49 Unique Research Experiences 17:57 Connecting Kids to America's Story 21:16 Teaching the Good, Bad, and Ugly of History 22:58 What's Next for Jenny L. Cote Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! Follow for more: FB: @bookworthypodcast Instagram: @bookworthy_podcast YouTube: BookWorthy Podcast - YouTube tiktok: @valeriefentress

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Inside Dragon’s Kiss and the Real Risks of Spicy YA: Insights from Author E.A. Winters

Send us Fan Mail 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 Book Worthy, host Valerie interviews author E.A. Winters about her book 'Dragon's Kiss' and the broader implications of media content for young readers. They discuss the inspiration behind the Blood and Flame Saga, the importance of adventure and romance in literature, and the impact of explicit content on youth. E.A. shares her journey as a writer, her convictions regarding appropriate content, and her future projects, emphasizing the need for responsible storytelling. Home | E. A. Winters, DragonLeaf Press Join BookWorthy's Summer Reading Challenge Takeaways Dragon's Kiss is the first book in the Blood and Flame Saga. E.A. Winters draws inspiration from 'what if' scenarios. The author aims to create content that is enjoyable for both boys and girls. There is a growing concern about explicit content in young adult literature. E.A. Winters has a background as a licensed professional counselor. The impact of media on youth is a significant theme in the conversation. The importance of appropriate content for young readers is emphasized. E.A. Winters' writing journey began with a poetic line that inspired her. The author discusses the normalization of explicit content in society. E.A. Winters is working on a new series called Monster Makers. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dragon's Kiss and Author's Journey 02:38 Inspiration Behind the Blood and Flame Saga 05:31 The Role of Adventure and Romance in Writing 08:19 The Impact of Media on Youth and Society 11:02 Exploring Themes of Truth and Lies in Literature 13:56 The Importance of Appropriate Content for Young Readers 16:36 E.A. Winters' Writing Journey and Future Projects Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! Follow for more: FB: @bookworthypodcast Instagram: @bookworthy_podcast YouTube: BookWorthy Podcast - YouTube tiktok: @valeriefentress

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Helping Little Ones See God’s Big, Beautiful World with Tori Higa

Send us Fan Mail 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 Exploring God's Creation and Children's Literature with Tori Higa, Discover how children's books can beautifully showcase God's vast creation and love. Join us as we chat with author and illustrator Tori Higa, delving into her creative process, faith-inspired storytelling, and her journey from art to authorship. Key Topics: The inspiration behind God Must Love and its message for ages zero to three Tori's unique experience illustrating her own children's book The importance of nature and God's creation as a reflection of His character Balancing writing and illustrating skills in children's publishing The long journey from concept to published book and favorite parts of the process Influences from art legends like Ezra Jack Keats and Van Gogh Tori's favorite books, including A Tale of Two Seasons by her dad and The Jesus Storybook Bible Upcoming projects: indie faith-based book and launching a greeting card company Resources: Tori Higa's Website, Instagram, Facebook Connect with Tori Higa: Instagram Facebook Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction to Tori Higa 01:12 - Illustrating Her Own Book 02:03 - Balancing Skills in Publishing 03:13 - Message for Young Children 05:40 - Takeaways for Children 06:32 - Observing God's Creation 06:46 - Aspiring Author Journey 08:28 - Art to Writing Transition 09:12 - Publishing Process Insights 10:20 - Visual vs. Word-Driven Writing 11:23 - Artistic Influences 12:25 - Favorite Books 15:20 - Upcoming Projects 16:28 - Connecting with Tori Online Tori Higa's Website Instagram: @torahigacreates Facebook: @torahigacreates Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! Follow for more: FB: @bookworthypodcast Instagram: @bookworthy_podcast YouTube: BookWorthy Podcast - YouTube tiktok: @valeriefentress

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Teaching Kids to Love God’s World: Inside ‘Mary the Missionary’ with Yvonne M. Morgan

Send us Fan Mail 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 Book Worthy, Valerie interviews Yvonne M Morgan, an award-winning author known for her children's book 'Mary the Missionary.' They discuss the inspiration behind the book, which aims to teach children about compassion, cultural understanding, and faith through the adventures of a young girl named Mary in Kenya. Yvonne shares her experiences in mission work, the joy found in different cultures, and the importance of teaching children about the world around them. The conversation also touches on Yvonne's journey to becoming an author, her favorite books, and her future writing projects. Yvonne's Author Page Join BookWorthy's Summer Reading Challenge Here Takeaways Yvonne's first memorable book was 'The Ballerina.' Her mission work inspired her to write children's books. 'Mary the Missionary' explores themes of compassion and cultural understanding. Children can learn about joy despite poverty through stories. Traveling helps us understand different cultures better. Yvonne's journey to becoming an author was unexpected. Mary's adventures teach kids about overcoming challenges. Books can communicate deep messages to children. Yvonne plans to write more books featuring Mary. Exploring differences can enrich our lives. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Yvonne M Morgan and Her Work 01:59 Inspiration Behind 'Mary the Missionary' 03:36 Cultural Insights from Kenya 05:33 Mary's Adventures and Challenges 07:32 Lessons on Faith and Understanding 09:19 Yvonne's Journey to Becoming an Author 11:11 Unique Travel Experiences and Insights 12:56 Favorite Books and Their Impact 14:34 Future Projects and Aspirations Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! Follow for more: FB: @bookworthypodcast Instagram: @bookworthy_podcast YouTube: BookWorthy Podcast - YouTube tiktok: @valeriefentress

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Exploring 'Smoke and Mirrors' with Jeff Maxim

Send us Fan Mail 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 Bookworthy, host Valerie interviews Jeff Maxam, author of the award-winning middle-grade fantasy, 'Smoke and Mirrors,' . They discuss the book's themes, including handling life's trials, the role of dragons, and the influence of C.S. Lewis. Jeff shares his writing journey and the impact of the Realm Makers Aurora Contest on his career. Author Bio – Jeff Maxim Join the BookWorthy Summer Reading Challenge Here Takeaways Handling life's trials is a central theme. Dragons play a significant role in the story. The book is set in a world similar to ours but different. Jeff's middle school experience inspired the story. The Realm Makers Aurora Contest was pivotal for Jeff. Fantasy and religion can coexist in storytelling. Jeff aims to communicate powerful truths through stories. C.S. Lewis's work greatly influenced Jeff. Jeff's writing journey began with storytelling to his kids. A sequel to 'Smoke and Mirrors' is in the works. Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction to Jeff Maxam 00:03:00 The Story Behind 'Smoke and Mirrors' 00:09:00 Dragons and Their Significance 00:15:00 Jeff's Writing Journey 00:21:00 Impact of Realm Makers Aurora Contest 00:27:00 Fantasy and Faith in Storytelling 00:33:00 Future Projects and Closing Remarks Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! Follow for more: FB: @bookworthypodcast Instagram: @bookworthy_podcast YouTube: BookWorthy Podcast - YouTube tiktok: @valeriefentress

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Finding Harmony and Friendship with Allia Zobel Nolan

Send us Fan Mail 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 Bookworthy, children's author Allia Zobel Nolan discusses her latest picture book, 'Finding Harmony,' which explores themes of peace, friendship, and teamwork through the story of a kitten. The conversation delves into the importance of interactive storytelling, the role of prayer in children's lives, and the significance of reading and writing in personal development. Allia shares her insights on engaging children with literature and her future writing projects, emphasizing the need for hope and connection in today's world. Home - Allia Writes Join the BookWorthy Summer Reading Challenge Here Takeaways Allia Zobel Nolan is passionate about children's literature and her cats. The book 'Finding Harmony' teaches children about peace through a relatable story. Interactive elements in children's books can enhance engagement and learning. Teamwork and collaboration are essential themes in Allia's writing. Prayer is presented as a valuable tool for children in various situations. Reading is crucial for personal growth and understanding the world. Allia values reader feedback, especially from children who enjoy her books. Future projects include a devotional aimed at reconnecting with God. Allia's writing process involves thinking from a child's perspective. Humor and relatability are key components in Allia's storytelling. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Finding Harmony 02:17 The Journey of Writing Finding Harmony 05:59 Interactive Elements in Children's Books 10:04 Key Messages for Children 17:16 The Importance of Prayer and Patience 19:53 Impactful Books and Writing Journey 23:31 Future Projects and Themes Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! Follow for more: FB: @bookworthypodcast Instagram: @bookworthy_podcast YouTube: BookWorthy Podcast - YouTube tiktok: @valeriefentress

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Growing Up in Faith with Penny Reeve

Send us Fan Mail 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 Bookworthy, Valerie interviews award-winning author Penny Reeve, who shares her journey as a children's author and the inspiration behind her Tanya Abbey series. They discuss the themes of faith, generosity, and the importance of role models in children's literature. Penny elaborates on her latest book, Camp Max, and how it addresses complex issues in a way that resonates with young readers. The conversation also touches on Penny's writing journey, her favorite books, and her upcoming projects. PENNY REEVE - home Join the BookWorthy Summer Reading Challenge Takeaways Penny Reeve emphasizes the importance of exploring faith in children's literature. The Tanya Abbey series addresses real-world issues through the lens of a child's perspective. Generosity can come with a cost, a theme explored in Camp Max. Fiction can provide role models for children, helping them navigate their faith and actions. Penny's writing is inspired by her own experiences and the need for relatable characters. The impact of a single reader can motivate an author to continue writing. Penny believes in the power of storytelling to influence young minds positively. Her favorite books often tackle complex themes and encourage critical thinking. Penny's journey as an author began with a desire to create better stories for children. Upcoming projects include a literature unit for homeschoolers and a picture book addressing modern issues. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Penny Reeve and Her Journey 02:35 Exploring the Tanya Abbey Series 07:50 Themes of Generosity and Faith in Camp Max 10:23 The Impact of Fiction on Young Readers 12:38 Penny's Writing Journey and Inspirations 16:30 Favorite Books and Their Influence 19:10 Upcoming Projects and Future Works Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! Follow for more: FB: @bookworthypodcast Instagram: @bookworthy_podcast YouTube: BookWorthy Podcast - YouTube tiktok: @valeriefentress

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Devoted Heroes of Faith with Joshua Cooley

Send us Fan Mail 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 Book Worthy, Valerie interviews author Joshua Cooley about his latest book, Heroes of the Bible Devotional, Volume 2. They discuss the importance of lesser-known biblical characters, the role of humor in engaging children, and the empowering message of faith for kids. Joshua shares his journey from journalism to writing children's books and emphasizes the significance of every character in the Bible, encouraging kids to see themselves as heroes of faith. Joshua Cooley | Josh Cooley Join BookWorthy's Summer Reading Challenge Takeaways The new devotional contains 90 devotions for kids aged 8 to 12. The book explores lesser-known biblical characters to show their importance. Humor is a key element in making biblical stories engaging for kids. Every character in the Bible has significance in God's story. Kids can relate to everyday characters rather than just prominent figures. The goal is to empower kids to see themselves as heroes for God. Joshua's background in journalism influences his writing style. The importance of explaining complex theology in simple terms for children. The series aims to remind kids that God sees their small actions as significant. Future projects include an outer space-themed devotional and adult devotionals. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Heroes of the Bible Devotional 02:10 Exploring Lesser-Known Biblical Characters 06:05 The Importance of Every Character in God's Story 08:50 Incorporating Humor in Devotions for Kids 10:41 Empowering Kids Through Biblical Heroes 14:08 The Journey from Journalism to Children's Author 21:37 Future Projects and Upcoming Books Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! Follow for more: FB: @bookworthypodcast Instagram: @bookworthy_podcast YouTube: BookWorthy Podcast - YouTube tiktok: @valeriefentress

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