So Bitsy, I love your new picture book Best Friends with Grandma! Were you inspired by your relationship with your own grandmother, your grandchildren, or both? 

Thank you so much for the kind words about the book! I don’t have grandkids (yet); this book was inspired by one of my grandmothers who played a pivotal role in raising me. The idea came to me when I said something to my daughter that she used to say to me, and I thought, I wonder if my grandmother had any idea how long-lasting her effect would be on me. It’s not only that she affected me, some 40+ years later, but also my daughter, a generation later. And who knows, my daughter might be saying the same thing to her kids someday. It made me think, grandparents don’t get enough credit. Someone should write a book about that, celebrating them. Then I realized, wait a minute, I’m a children’s book author. Why don’t I write one? And that’s how it came about. I dedicated the book to my grandmother; it’s a funny one that you read inside the front cover.

You said you’re not a grandmother, but why do you think grandparent books are popular?

Here’s the thing I don’t want kids to know, that adults (especially grandparents) are fully aware of: grandkids only stay young for such a small window of time, and, well, grandparents aren’t going to be around forever. I know that sounds morbid, but the reason I bring it up is because grandparents should take advantage of having grandkids young enough to sit in their lap and be read a story before they outgrow it, and grandkids need to take advantage of having grandparents being an active part of their life while they still are. We don’t get that time back.

I noticed that this story is not just about fun times with grandma—though those moments are portrayed very well. The grandchildren also learn some life lessons along the way. Why is that important?

It was important for me to show how grandmothers aren’t going to stand up and tell you something like, “My back hurts and I don’t feel like making a cake but I told your cousin I would so I’m going to do it anyways.” But grandkids see them doing it over and over. And that tells the child so much more than any repeated lecture could. It’s seeing how the grandmother lives their life that’s how they learn. You’ll notice I never say anything to the effect of “I learned” in the book. I intentionally say/write “I agree” because it’s an inherent understanding and agreement that the positive way the grandmother is living their life is the way that the child is deciding they want to live theirs. Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth. –1 John 3:18 ESV

This isn’t a typical children’s book with a main character. Was it hard to get published?

I had it sitting on my computer for a while, because you’re right, “soft books” don’t really sell these days–the kind without a main character, where there’s a beginning/middle/end format. I wasn’t sure what to do with it. When I got the idea to add Bible quotes, it just clicked. It went from a nice story idea to making it into a book. It’s amazing what a difference the verses made. 

Tell us why you included Bible verses throughout the book? 

There is a spiritual connection between a grandparent and a grandchild. (There’s a spiritual connection between any parent and child, really.) I felt the Bible verses were back-up, if you will. They were proof that the connection is God-given. I came across Proverbs 17:6 “Grandchildren of the crowns of grandparents” when I was writing the devotional journal Mommy and Me Micro-Moments: Nurturing Faith, Sharing Laughs. That was the Bible quote that gave me the idea to include it at the end of the Grandma story. It made the story so much stronger that I decided to add one to each segment.

The illustrations are so lively and colorful. I especially love how the grandmothers are all shapes and sizes and ethnicities. Did you have some input into those decisions? 

Great question! As you know, typically picture book writers have no say in the artwork when it comes to traditional publishing, but this was in my original manuscript. I specified that I wanted each segment to have a diverse set of grandparents/grandchildren to show how universal the love between the generations is.

Tell our followers where they can find out more about you and your books.

Probably the best place to look is my website BitsyKemper.com. If they’ve ever thought of writing their own children’s book I have tips for beginner writers there. I also have a fun quiz to find out what your Grandma Superpower is, and some free downloadables like coloring sheets and ways to maximize “micro-moments” with the kids. By the way, Best Friends With Grandpa comes out next year so stay tuned!

Thank you, Bitsy, for sharing the inspiration behind your beautiful book. It’s fun, sweet, lively, and has a great message for readers of all ages.

It’s easy for me to give your book FIVE big smiles!

Here’s to being best friends with the grandma or grandkids in your life.

Crystal

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Q: Welcome, Karen! For those who may be new to your books, tell us a little about how your Questions for Kids series got started.

A:   It began with frustration. I was seeing many children’s books promoting anti-biblical principles in ways that would have been unbelievable when my girls were young.

I wanted to be part of the solution and create something fun and creative—grounded in the truths of the Bible—for parents and grandparents to share with their special young readers. I wanted something I’d feel good about sharing with my own grandkids.

Rising reading and biblical illiteracy rates also troubled me. So I envisioned an entire series that would engage young minds and nurture their faith through dynamic characters and relatable storylines. My motivation was to inspire kids to read and to explore biblical truths, with a book series they could grow with spiritually and in their reading skills.

Now, I’m thrilled to use the power of Lucy’s story set within different periods of Bible history to point this next generation to God’s truth and His never-ending love.

Q: What is your writing background, and how did you first become interested in writing children’s books?

A: I began writing for adults in higher education, employee training, and business communications. My first book was a self-published wellness devotional, and my fictional memoir is still sitting on my desk, unfinished.

I also have a background in K-8 education and have worked with kids most of my adult life. But I never dreamed God would use me as a children’s author until He gave me both inspiration and confirmation about an entire book series at a writers’ conference in 2018.

Fast forward to 2020, and God made it clear it was time to step out in faith. Two years later, the first book was released through Ambassador International, and the fourth book will be available in 2027.

Q: What is your purpose in writing this series?

A: The purpose of this series is to help young readers explore biblically-based concepts right alongside the loveable main characters Lucy and her Papa Joe as they adventure into the Bible together to discover unique periods in Bible history. I knew there would be certain Bible accounts essential for building a strong foundation of faith, and so far this series covers Creation, Adam and Eve in the Garden, and Noah’s Ark.

But rather than a repetition of Bible facts like you might find in some children’s Bibles, I wanted to deliver a fresh perspective by including a story thread children could relate to. In book 2, kids read about the biblical truths of the Garden right alongside a heartwarming message of family, diversity, and God’s faithfulness, all through the eyes of curious young Lucy.

The story showcases the beauty and diversity with which our Creator made the human family, and it emphasizes how we all go back to what I like to call the First Family: Adam and Eve. There has been much dissension recently in our culture over race. But really there is only one race. No matter the color of our skin, where we were born, or the languages we speak, we all go back to Adam and Eve in the Garden; and we are all created in God’s image.

More than anything, this book series is meant to drive the truth home to young readers that their lives matter—that every life matters to God.

Q: I love your characters Lucy Lu and Papa Joe. Tell us about these two, and are they based on real people in your life?

A: Lucy is a combination of several people, including a little bit of myself as a child, minus the fiery red hair. I was one of those kids with a ton of energy and questions about everything. And if I felt comfortable with someone, then boy could I talk! I’m still that way. Papa Joe is modeled after my own dad who went home to be with the Lord in 2019—shiny red scooter and all!

Q: You seem to be writing this series based on chronological events in the Old Testament. For example, Book 1 deals with creation, Book 2 focuses on the first family, and Book 3 shares the story of Noah and the ark. What is on the horizon for Book 4?

A: Book 4 follows the journey of Abraham when God calls him to a new land. The working title is Guess What God Promises. I look forward to sharing much more as we get closer to the release date, which is scheduled for summer 2027!

Q: All of your books contain beautiful, colorful illustrations by Jelena Vitorovic. As the Literary Lyonesse, I love the page in Book 3 with the animals boarding the ark two by two—especially the lion and the lioness. As an English teacher, I also appreciate the clever use of onomatopoeia throughout the book.

What is your favorite illustration in Book 3, and why does it speak to you?

A: I think every page is like a work of ark (ahem, art) . So it’s hard to choose a favorite. This image of Noah and the dove and the rainbow stands out to me as most important.

Q: Can you share any additional stories you plan to feature in this seven-book series?

A: This series follows major events and people in the Bible that are important to building a solid faith. Future books will feature Moses, David, several important women in the Bible, and, of course, Jesus!

Q: How may readers find out more about you and connect with you on social media?

A: Readers can find me on most social media platforms, with Instagram being my favorite. I’ve included a few direct links below, and also a link to sign up for my monthly newsletter to stay up to date on books, events, and fun giveaways.

Website: karenferg.com

Instagram:  karenfergusonauthor

Amazon author page:  https://www.amazon.com/stores/Karen-Ferguson/author/B075SHZ1WV?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/17184165.Karen_Ferguson

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/illuminatecommunications.org

Newsletter sign up: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/n5z4p0

As a final note to parents, I hope readers will take advantage of studying the scriptures and questions at the end of each Questions for Kids book. These pages provide great opportunities for parents to connect with their children, make predictions, and reinforce important learning concepts.

Again, Happy Book Birthday to Guess Why God Made the Rainbow!

Thank you, Karen! We look forward to more Questions for Kids books!

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Her latest story warms my heart and brings a tear to my eye. But rather than having me tell you all about it, why not hear the inspiration from the author herself. I asked her a few questions and am happy to share the answers with you.

How did you come up with the idea for this sweet Christmas story? 

Little Stable, Holy Night was inspired by our family’s love of hospitality. Many years ago, we decided to make room for others by becoming a foster home. In a way, I’ve always thought of our house like a personified character—opening her doors to others. With this image in mind, I thought, what if I wrote the Christmas story from the perspective of the stable? Sharing our home has always felt like special work, and I wondered if the stable would’ve felt the same as she welcomed animals, visitors, and baby Jesus. 

Besides the birth of Jesus, what do you want little ones to learn? 

In this story, the stable offers the invitation of “Come,” which points towards Jesus’ invitation to each of us.  I want readers to feel that warm invitation, and then be inspired to extend that invitation to others—with open hearts and open doors—just like Little Stable. I want little ones to see the joy of making others feel wanted and welcomed. 

The illustrations are adorable! Tell us about them.

Yes! I was thrilled to have this book illustrated by Bruno Brogna! The pages are full of warm colors, an anthropomorphic stable, and piles of adorable animals. It was important to me that the illustrations had culturally and geographically accurate elements, like a stone stable and hewn manger, and I’m so pleased with how this book came together. Huge thanks to Bruno and the team at Paraclete Press!

What else would you like our followers to know?

There are some great free activity sheets and discussion questions available on my website. I encourage you to print them off and use them this Christmas with the little ones you love as you explore the precious gift of Jesus.

I’m also excited to share that Little Stable, Holy Night has a partner book releasing in time for Easter. Holy Morning, Little Tomb is a joyful retelling of Jesus’ resurrection from the perspective of the tomb. 

Where can we find out more about you and your books (include any links)

The best place to find more about me is on my website, and you can also connect with me on social media:

Website: www.katerietema.com

Instagram: @katerietema

Facebook: Kate Rietema – Children’s Author

Thank you, Kate!

I love everything about this book and am happy to share it with our followers. And here are a few words of my own:

This beautifully crafted story reminds us that hospitality warms our empty, chilly spaces while offering warmth and safety to those who enter through our open doors. Like Little Stable, may we welcome others into our hearts and homes during this holy season as we celebrate the One who fills us with His love.

Here’s to a sweet stable filled with warm and happy animals and a newborn King.

Crystal

Five big smiles for this sweet Christmas story!

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That surprising transformation gives children a memorable way to explore decay, seeds, soil, and plant growth—and to discover that in God’s creation, even an ending can lead to new life.

Learn About Decay and Growth with Peter Peter turns the familiar nursery rhyme Peter, Peter, Pumpkin Eater into an engaging science adventure. As young readers follow Peter and his pumpkin through a natural cycle of change, they learn that decay is not simply destruction. It is part of the process that returns nutrients to the soil and helps make future growth possible.

With a story children can enjoy, and concepts parents and teachers can build on, this book makes early science approachable, meaningful, and fun. It invites young readers to look more closely at the world around them and see God’s wisdom in every stage of creation.

Learning Through Story

Children are naturally curious about the world around them. Why do leaves fall? What happens to an old pumpkin? Where do new plants come from?

Books give us a wonderful way to encourage that curiosity.

Learn About Decay and Growth with Peter Peter introduces children to concepts such as decomposition, seeds, soil, plant growth, and the life cycle of a pumpkin in a way that feels more like a story than a science lesson.

The familiar Peter Peter character adds a playful connection children can recognize, while the science behind his pumpkin gives parents and teachers plenty to talk about.

It’s especially fun for fall learning, when pumpkins are everywhere!

A Hands-On Learning Opportunity

One of the best ways to extend the story is to let children observe the process themselves.

After reading the book, place an old pumpkin outside where children can safely observe it over several weeks. Encourage them to notice the changes. Is it getting softer? Has the color changed? Are insects visiting it? What is happening to the seeds? Children can draw pictures, keep a simple observation journal, make predictions, or compare what they see with Peter’s pumpkin in the book.

Then comes the exciting part: watching for new growth!

A decaying pumpkin provides a wonderful visual lesson that creation is filled with cycles. Something that appears finished can still have a purpose.

Connecting Creation and the Creator

For Christian families and classrooms, the book also creates a natural opportunity to talk about the incredible way God designed His world.

Decay might not seem beautiful at first. It can be mushy, messy, and not particularly pleasant! Yet even that process has an important role in creation. Organic matter returns nutrients to the soil, seeds remain behind, and under the right conditions, new plants can begin to grow.

What a wonderful reminder for children that God wastes nothing. We can help children look closely at creation and recognize the wisdom, order, and purpose woven throughout it.

As Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us: “To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” Even pumpkins have their seasons.

The Full Peter Peter Pumpkin Eater Story

You can read the adaptation of this familiar nursery rhyme in a previous blog.

 This resource is available on Teachers Pay Teachers and at DawnStephensBooks.com. The rhyme comes as a printable guided reading book, PowerPoint slides, and a video. It also includes a Teacher’s Guide with lesson plans, worksheets, and hands-on activities. 

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In her newsletters Tama shares a bit about the story behind the story. I know you will enjoy reading this:

Wonder what the inspiration was for writing Serah and the First Christmas?

I was actually working through a Bible study in my personal quiet time, and the author of that study was talking about Rachel and Rebekah and how they were shepherdesses in the Bible. That study went on to talk about how being a shepherdess was a common job for young women  in Bible times. She then wondered if shepherdesses could possibly have been present that night in the fields of Bethlehem when the angels came to announce Christ’s birth.

As a writer, the “what if” questions started bouncing around in my mind. So, I wondered, what if there were women present that night? But would it have been acceptable for a woman to be out at night like that? Maybe not. So . . .

• What if it were a little girl who dreamed of being a shepherdess?
• What if her father was one of the shepherds out in the fields that night?
• What if she had been given a little lamb to take care?
• What if she snuck out into the fields?

And the story of Serah and the First Christmas unfolded from there!

But wait—there’s more:

Who is “the other little girl” and why is she so important?

As you look through the illustrations of Serah, you might notice another little girl in the background of many of the spreads. Who is she? What is she looking for? Why is tagging along after Serah? She has no lines, so what is her story?

First, she is an invitation for children to pour their own imaginations into the story and, particularly, into her story.

But here’s what I imagine her story to be: 

While Serah is wanting so desperately to be a shepherdess and struggling with feeling overlooked because she is too small, she doesn’t even notice this other little girl who is just hoping to be seen by Serah. To be her friend. This other little girl is representative of what happens to us sometimes. We—like Serah—get so caught up in what we want and what we believe we need for ourselves that we don’t notice how we could be the answer to someone else’s prayer.

That little girl is also our challenge. Because when we realize how we are always seen by Jesus and endlessly loved by Him, how could we not do as Serah did? How could we not reach out to those around us and bring them to Him?

And here are my (Crystal’s) thoughts:

This sweet story allows readers to step back in time and follow a young girl who longs to be a shepherdess so she can help care for her father’s sheep. She is told that she is too little and too young but caring for a motherless lamb proves otherwise. I love how her confidence and determination in caring for the lamb eventually brings her to the manger where she comes face to face with the Savior who sees and loves her just as she is. With warm and enduring illustrations, this Christmas story is one that families will enjoy reading together.

Amazon link: Amazon.com : serah and the first christmas by tama fortner
Barnes and Noble link: Serah and the First Christmas: A Story of Being Seen and Loved | Barnes & Noble®
Christianbook.com: Serah and the First Christmas: A Story of Being Seen and Loved: Tama Fortner: 9780310167907 – BibleGateway with Christianbook.com

To find out more about Tama and her wonderful books visit: Tama Fortner Books

Here’s to caring for the least of these and finding Jesus!

Five big smiles for this beautiful Christmas book!

Crystal

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