Thursday, April 18, 2019

QUINN'S PROMISE ROCK Written by CHRISTIE THOMAS & Illustrated by SYDNEY HANSON



“NO MATTER WHERE, GOD IS ALWAYS THERE! What a great theme for a children’s book! I went to a conference and found this treasure of a story for my granddaughter! Aria is five and was very enthused about this story. Unfortunately, we didn’t get to finish this read for we ran out of time. We will get together soon to do so. I must admit that I couldn’t stay away, and took to the pages after she’d left. I learned about owls as the characters interacted in a very pleasing way.

The illustrations by Sydney Hanson were perfect visuals for the characters and setting. This is the first young children’s storybook that I’ve ever reviewed and the reason that I’d decided to do so was because of the timeless message of His being with us always! Children encounter such fear-filled thoughts and television shows. Ugly, gruesome characters bombard their tender imaginations. I found Christie to be a sensitive and intuitive story teller. This is a story that will soothe an anxious child. I will not tell you how this tale plays out and I hope that you are curious enough to purchase this treasure for the children in your life! This would make a fine gift for Easter or birthday or even a summer visit to the beach. This is highly recommended! Excuse me as I go and experience Quinn’s adventure once more!

QUESTIONS FOR CHRISTIE:

Christie, how long have you had children’s stories running around your imagination? (I’m so glad you did!)
I used to tell stories all the time as a kid, but didn't write a single story for nearly 20 years as I pursued a science degree, children's ministry, and family. I wanted to write again, but felt stuck, until this little owl character popped into my life.

You and the Sydney have merged your talents together perfectly! How did you find one another?
 I actually don't know Sydney, the publisher found her! She's so incredible.

Did you ever get lost as a child? (I almost did!)
I do remember getting lost on a bike ride once. I had been pokey and gotten left behind, so I rode around and prayed until I found a street I knew. Afterward I actually found it a very empowering experience, because I realized that I'd always eventually find my way, and that I was never truly alone.
How does story come to you?
Stories come to me slowly. I get the seed of an idea in my head, but I have to sit down and start writing in order to actually figure out where the story goes.

I like the child-scriptures listed in the parents notes! Do you have a website where children and their parents can visit you and keep connected?
My website is christiethomaswriter.com, where I write to encourage and equip parents to nurture the hope of Christ in the home.

What other books do you have available?
I also have a simple (and fun) Bible study book for preschoolers, as well as another Quinn story coming out in August! 7) 

Where can you be found on social media?
I'm christiethomasauthor on Facebook and christie.thomas.writer on Instagram. I should have tried harder to get them the same, haha!



Monday, April 8, 2019

PENS OF PRAISE CHRISTIAN WRITERS GROUP -- NEW LOCATION -- APRIL 16


PENS OF PRAISE
CHRISTIAN WRITERS GROUP
April 16, 2019
  Tuesday 6:00 p.m. – 7:45 p.m.
                                      Manitowoc Public Library
                                        Franklin St. Room
                                      
707 Quay St, Manitowoc, WI 54220
Street parking and parking in rear available. Wheelchair accessible.

Franklin St. Room located on the first floor, to the left of the service desk.       

EARNING YOUR WAY TO DREAM, EXPRESS, & WRITE is our lesson this month.  Susan Marlene will share information gleaned from well published writers on how to earn an income as a writer. Resource books on this important topic will be examined.
PROMPT: Beginning, New Beginnings or The End of That! You choose a prompt.
Let Susan Marlene know if you will attend so that we can provide a printed lesson for you and also save a seat for you! susanmarlenewrites@gmail.com or post a comment on her website in the www.susanmarlene.com
An inspired reader given excellent take-away = return readers!
We are a safe place to share.
Pens Meetings Are Free
As always, if you have any questions or concerns don’t hesitate to contact Becky McLafferty @ rebeccamclafferty@gmail.com or