Sammy the cactus is stuck—sticky stuck in the ground to be exact, with no way to move, run, or roam. Snake can slither. Hawk can soar. Jackrabbit can hop. But Sammy? He must stay rooted in one spot. This makes him sad, and he begins to wish he could be more like his desert friends.

But could there be a reason Sammy is planted in one place? In this fun, rhyming board book for children ages 2-6, Sammy discovers that God made him sticky stuck on purpose so that he can help his community of friends!

A story about learning the importance of being yourself, “God Made You to Be You” is sure to delight and encourage young readers with the reminder that God has a special purpose and plan for each of us!

Jamie Ivey loves creating things that help people believe the truths about who God made them to be. She does this mostly through her popular podcast, The Happy Hour with Jamie Ivey, and through multiple books geared towards women. Now she’s taking this passion to a younger generation. As a mama to four kids, she knows the value in kids learning at a young age that God made them to be themselves! Her whole family plus two dogs live in Austin, Texas, and they all love to visit the West Texas desert as often as possible! ​

This week Mike takes the helm to interview co-host Amy Parker and her co-author Tricia Goyer about their new picture book; The Grumbles: A Story about Gratitude.

Are you trying to teach your about gratitude? The Grumbles are here to help . . . they just don't know it yet!

The Grumble family tried not to complain but bills and laundry and sibling squabbles kept everyone rumbling. When Grandma Grateful comes for a visit, things change. Bestselling authors Tricia Goyer and Amy Parker team up to spread an attitude of gratitude. 

The Grumbles teach children:

• how to approach life with a gracious mindset
• about core Christian values
• how to seek out the goodness in everything and identify blessings

This picture book is perfect for:

• ages 4 to 8
• a classroom story time focused on thankfulness, kindness, or gratitude
• reading aloud together as a bedtime story
• birthdays, holiday gift giving, or as an addition to your home library

The Grumbles is a sweet, simple, and silly story about how to turn grumbles into gratefulness.

Amy and Mike catch up with Dave Arnold and Phil Lollar from Adventures in Odyssey and discuss their latest release The Fruit of the Spirit.

Dave Arnold and Phil Lollar have been at the head of the creative team behind Adventures in Odyssey audio dramas from day one, 34 years ago. Phil is the co-creator of the series, and has written and directed several hundred episodes.  Dave is the executive producer of Adventures in Odyssey and Focus on the Family Radio Theatre audio dramas, and has either written, directed or sound designed hundreds of episodes.  Together, they are the authors of the popular Young Whitnovels. Phil is also author of the Blackgaard Chronicles book series.

This week Amy and Mike talk with Judge Roy Sparkman on the topic of religious freedoms - specifically regarding kids.

• Empowering and Equipping parents as they educate the next generation
• Teaching kids to stand up for their faith in school
• Identifying and understanding what is a religious freedom vs. a government imposed restriction
• What to do if your child’s freedoms are compromised
• Landmark rulings that restrict your freedoms
• Where religious liberty ends and hate speech begins

While this podcast targets parents and teachers and leaders, we typically try to keep our content kid-friendly, just in case your kids are listening along. For this episode, we feel the content is really important for parents and teachers and leaders, but our guest does mention some topics, without going into detail, that may be things you don't want to explain to younger kids just yet. So, please listen, but if you have younger kids, you may want to screen it before listening with them. Thank you, as always, for listening to The Bible for Kids podcast.

Judge Roy Sparkman is a subject matter expert on religious freedoms. Serving Texans as a trial lawyer for more than two decades and a district judge for more than 8 years, Sparkman’s passion for issues of religious liberties peaked when he represented his pastor in a deposition and subsequent court hearing where the pastor was questioned about his sermon condemning some children’s books from a Biblical perspective. He is passionate about educating religious leaders about the ways in which their liberties are already being infringed upon, and equipping them to defend their positions and their faith.

Sparkman holds a Juris Doctor from Baylor University School of Law and a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Midwestern State University. He and his wife, Donna, reside in Waco, Texas, and enjoy spending time with their family and grandchildren.

Amy and Mike talk with author Bryan Davis about his fiction novels for kids and young adults.

Bryan Davis is the author of fantasy/science-fiction novels for youth and adults, including the bestselling Dragons in Our Midst series. Other series include The Oculus Gate, Reapers, Dragons of Starlight, Tales of Starlight, Time Echoes, and Wanted: Superheroes, several of which have been bestsellers.

From the time he taught himself how to read before school age, Bryan has demonstrated a passion for the written word, reading and writing in many disciplines and genres, including theology, fiction, devotionals, poetry, and humor.

Bryan lives in western Tennessee with his wife, Susie. Bryan and Susie homeschooled their four girls and three boys, and they work together as an author/editor team.

This week on the podcast is the second of a two-part conversation with author/illustrators Sarah Jean Collins – The God Made series, and Lauren Duncan – Made to Create with All My Heart and Soul.

 The God Made series

Who made the world and all the creatures in it? God did! Author and illustrator Sarah Jean Collins uses winsome rhymes and colorful geometric illustrations to teach children about Creation, tropical rain forests, and sea life while also reminding them that, as much as God loves whales, jellyfish, sloths, and tigers, he loves kids even more. The God Made series includes God Made the World, God Made the Ocean and God Made the Rain Forest.

Sarah Jean Collins is an author and illustrator, and graphic designer from Bradenton, Florida. She has a BA in history from Samford University and an AS degree in graphic design from State College of Florida. She enjoys writing and illustrating books that both kids and their parents can equally enjoy. She and her husband, Tim, have been married since 2008 and have two children. 

Made to Create with All My Heart and Soul

ECPA 2020 Christian Book Award Finalist!
For girls who like to draw, sketch, imagine, explore, paint, smudge, color, write, and bring ideas to life! You are a wonderful work of art, a unique creation put together by a loving God who has big plans in mind for you! Paint, doodle, and craft your way to a better understanding of who God created you to be! You’ll learn art concepts and do fun projects with Lauren, an art teacher who wants to show you how to use your God-given talents to worship Him! Each day, you’ll read a Bible verse and a short devotion from Lauren, and then you’ll make a work of art that will encourage your creativity and teach you something about your Creator!

Lauren Duncan marvels at the big and bold circles God has made in her life. She was born and continues to reside in Auburn, Alabama, the first baby and grandbaby on all sides of the family. She has loved creating from an early age—her parents signed her up for art classes and bought her supplies to keep her busy. Currently, Lauren is an adjunct professor of art at Auburn University, teaches art to small groups, helps run her family store, and spends time in her studio. 

This week on the podcast is the first of a two-part conversation with author/illustrators Sarah Jean Collins – The God Made series, and Lauren Duncan – Made to Create with All My Heart and Soul.

 The God Made series

Who made the world and all the creatures in it? God did! Author and illustrator Sarah Jean Collins uses winsome rhymes and colorful geometric illustrations to teach children about Creation, tropical rain forests, and sea life while also reminding them that, as much as God loves whales, jellyfish, sloths, and tigers, he loves kids even more. The God Made series includes God Made the World, God Made the Ocean and God Made the Rain Forest.

Sarah Jean Collins is an author and illustrator, and graphic designer from Bradenton, Florida. She has a BA in history from Samford University and an AS degree in graphic design from State College of Florida. She enjoys writing and illustrating books that both kids and their parents can equally enjoy. She and her husband, Tim, have been married since 2008 and have two children. 

Made to Create with All My Heart and Soul

ECPA 2020 Christian Book Award Finalist!
For girls who like to draw, sketch, imagine, explore, paint, smudge, color, write, and bring ideas to life! You are a wonderful work of art, a unique creation put together by a loving God who has big plans in mind for you! Paint, doodle, and craft your way to a better understanding of who God created you to be! You’ll learn art concepts and do fun projects with Lauren, an art teacher who wants to show you how to use your God-given talents to worship Him! Each day, you’ll read a Bible verse and a short devotion from Lauren, and then you’ll make a work of art that will encourage your creativity and teach you something about your Creator!

Lauren Duncan marvels at the big and bold circles God has made in her life. She was born and continues to reside in Auburn, Alabama, the first baby and grandbaby on all sides of the family. She has loved creating from an early age—her parents signed her up for art classes and bought her supplies to keep her busy. Currently, Lauren is an adjunct professor of art at Auburn University, teaches art to small groups, helps run her family store, and spends time in her studio. 

Amy and Mike talk this week with authors Becky Thompson (Midnight Mom community) and Dr Mark R Pitts about the Midnight Dad Devotional & Community.

For the last 38 years, ministry has been a family affair for Dr. Mark R. Pitts, establishing and planting many churches and ministries. His wife, Susan, and daughter, Becky Thompson, co-authored the USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestseller Midnight Mom Devotional, and co-manage the Midnight Mom Devotional online community, a space where moms can find encouragement, community, and nightly prayer, which has amassed more than 1.3 million followers. As the mom community grew, the family felt called to create a space to bring nightly prayers and encouragement to dads, and Mark took the lead. In 2019, they created the Midnight Dad Devotional online community.

In Midnight Dad Devotional: 100 Devotions and Prayers to Connect Dads Just Like You to the Father (Thomas Nelson, April 27, 2021), Thompson and Pitts encourage men in their roles as fathers by providing short, powerful devotions that allow men to see themselves in biblical examples of God as Father, and reassure them that they are exactly who God chose as ‘dad’ for their family.

“God has called you to the role of father,” write Thompson and Pitts. “And you have God Himself as a role model… We want you to see yourself in these biblical examples and believe that you have God’s love safely and securely in your heart. At the same time, we don’t want you to settle. We hope you realize there is always a better or a best to the good you already have.”

Becky Thompson is a bestselling author and the creator of the Midnight Mom Devotional community, gathering over one million moms in nightly prayer. Speaking hope into the struggle of balancing life as a wife mother, and daughter of God, Becky has become the voice of modern Christian motherhood. You can learn more about Becky’s top Christian podcast, Revived Motherhood, or find more of her work by visiting BeckyThompson.com. Becky lives near Nashville with her husband, Jared, and their three children.

Dr. Mark R. Pitts is a graduate of the University of Tulsa Law School. He is an ordained pastor and a well-known Bible teacher in the Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, area where he lives with his wife, Susan. They have been married for 41 years and have two adult daughters and three grandchildren. In 2019, Mark created the Midnight Dad Devotional online community with his daughter, Becky Thompson, the creator of the Midnight Mom Devotional. Mark enjoys teaching Scripture and praying for dads.

Amy and Mike talk this week with Andrew Peterson and Doug McKelvey and the 5th book in the Wingfeather Saga - Wingfeather Tales: Seven Thrilling Stories from the World of Aerwiar.

In hardcover at last, featuring new illustrations and the first-ever Wingfeather comic, now in print for the first time! Return to the world of the Wingfeather Saga with Andrew Peterson and his all-star author friends.

Immerse yourself in a land of bomnubbles and quarreling cousins, sea dragons and book publishers, thieves and Fangs and secret maps. Here within these pages lie seven stories of the distant past, lost adventures, forgotten songs, and heartbreaking histories. The Shining Isle is restored, but Aerwiar is vast—and these authors have tales yet to tell:

  •  Explore the inner walls of Yorsha Doon, just West of the Woes of Shreve, on the edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness, from the eyes of young Safiki in “The Prince of Yorsha Doon” from the creator of Aewiar, Andrew Peterson.
  •  Jennifer Trafton's warm and whimsical writing brings to life a publishing nightmare populated by the many beasts of Skree in “The Wooing of Sophelia Stupe.”
  •  Learn the origins of Ollister Pebmrick's mysterious entry in the Creaturepedia about his encounter with a raggant in “Willow Worlds” by N. D. Wilson.
  •  Travel with young Podo Helmer on an epic hunt for sea dragons in “From the Deeps of the Dragon King” from A. S. Peterson.
  •  Jonathan Rogers presents “The Ballard of Lanric and Rube,” sung by Armulyn the Bard, tale-spinner of the imaginary Shining Isle of Anniera, in On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness.
  •  Discover what life was like for Maraly and Gammon in post-war Skree in “Shadowblade and the Florid Sword"—the first-ever Wingfeather comic—by Andrew Peterson.
  •  Douglas McKelvey's epic, heartbreakingly hopeful novella "The Places Beyond the Maps” recounts a father's journey to redemption.

You'll also find delightful illustrations by Justin Gerard, Hein Zaayman, Cory Godbey, John Hendrix, Nicholas Kole, Aedan Peterson, Joe Sutphin, Jay Myers, and Doug TenNapel.

Enter a rich, imaginative world that becomes more real, more mysterious, more dangerous, and more beautiful with each story's telling.

Amy and Mike talk with author Bryan Davis about his fiction novels for kids and young adults.

Bryan Davis is the author of fantasy/science-fiction novels for youth and adults, including the bestselling Dragons in Our Midst series. Other series include The Oculus Gate, Reapers, Dragons of Starlight, Tales of Starlight, Time Echoes, and Wanted: Superheroes, several of which have been bestsellers.

From the time he taught himself how to read before school age, Bryan has demonstrated a passion for the written word, reading and writing in many disciplines and genres, including theology, fiction, devotionals, poetry, and humor.

Bryan lives in western Tennessee with his wife, Susie. Bryan and Susie homeschooled their four girls and three boys, and they work together as an author/editor team.

Amy and Mike talk with Chris Fabry about The Red Rock Mysteries which he co-authors with Jerry B. Jenkins.

Chris is masterful at weaving faith and storytelling together. The Red Rock Mysteries are sophisticated, page-turning mysteries, written perfectly for 8-12 year-olds. Great for both kids who already have faith in Christ and kids who need an introduction to what faith in Christ looks like.  

Chris Fabry is an award-winning author and radio personality who hosts the daily program Chris Fabry Live on Moody Radio. He is also heard on Love Worth Finding, Building Relationships with Dr. Gary Chapman, and other radio programs. In 2020, he was inducted into the Marshall University School of Journalism and Mass Communications Hall of Fame. A native of West Virginia, Chris and his wife, Andrea, now live in Arizona and are the parents of nine children.

Chris's novels, which include Dogwood, June Bug, Almost Heaven, and The Promise of Jesse Woods, have won five Christy Awards, an ECPA Christian Book Award, and two Awards of Merit from Christianity Today. He was inducted into the Christy Award Hall of Fame in 2018. His books include movie novelizations, such as War Room and Overcomer, and novels for children and young adults. He coauthored the Left Behind: The Kids series with Jerry B. Jenkins and Tim LaHaye, as well as the Red Rock Mysteries and the Wormling series with Jerry B. Jenkins. He encourages those who dream of writing with his website heyyoucanwrite.com. Find out more about his books at chrisfabry.com.

This week Amy and Mike catch up with Sarah Dahl - creator and host of the We Wonder podcast.

We Wonder is a podcast that invites children (and their parents) into a life of wonder, engagement, and curiosity about the Bible. We think children should be encouraged to ask questions and actively engage God as they encounter Scripture. On this podcast, we provide space to enter God's good words together, wonder about them, and talk with God about what we find.

Sarah is a writer who developed the children's ministry curriculum at City Church San Francisco, and is involved in lay theological education with the Newbigin House of Studies. She attended Wheaton College and Luther Seminary, and believes deeply in imaginative formation in Scripture as a gift for spiritual growth. Her writing also appears in Comment and Christian History magazines. She lives in San Francisco with her husband, two children, and a very elderly cat.

This week Amy and Mike talk with author Aaron Armstrong about his new "Big Truths Bible Storybook" for kids.

What is truth? Can we make up our own truth? In the “Big Truths Bible Storybook”, readers ages 6 to 10 will learn that God’s Word is the source of all truth. They'll find 52 stories each tied to a big truth found in the Bible. For example, through Joseph's story, kids will see that God is in control of everything in heaven and on earth. Through David's story, they'll learn that grace is when God gives us something good even when we don't deserve it.

The big truths of God's Word can sometimes be deep and difficult, but the “Big Truths Bible Storybook” makes them relatable to young readers through simple storytelling, beautiful artwork, discussion questions, and more! After reading this book, kids will better understand that God's Word can be trusted, and His truths will last forever.

Aaron Armstrong is an author, blogger, and Brand Manager for The Gospel Project, based outside of Nashville, Tennessee. He has written several books, including “Epic: The Story that Changed the World” as well as the screenplays for the documentaries “Through The Eyes of Spurgeon”, and “LUTHER: The Life and Legacy of the German Reformer.” He writes regularly at BloggingTheologically.com, and his writing has appeared on numerous websites including The Gospel Coalition, For the Church, Crosswalk.com, and ChurchLeaders.com.

This week hosts Mike and Amy talk with singer songwriter author Matthew West on The Bible for Kids Podcast.

ABOUT MATTHEW WEST

Matthew West is a five time GRAMMY nominee, a multiple ASCAPChristian Music Songwriter/Artist of the Year winner, and a 2018 GMA Dove Award Songwriter of the Year (Artist) recipient and has two RIAA® Golcertified and a RIAA Platinum certified and a RIAA Platinum certified singles. He has received an American Music Award, a Billboard Music Award, a K LOVE Fan Award, and named Billboard’s Hot Christian Songwriter of the Year. West also received a Primetime Emmy® Award nomination for Original Music & Lyrics for the title track for the feature film “The Heart of Christmas.”

In addition to his own recording career, he has more than 130 songwriting credits to his name including cuts by Rascal Flats, Scott McCreery, Michael W Smith, Amy Grant, Mandisa, Danny Gokey, and others, along with back to back No 1 songs by Casting Crowns including their single "Nobody," which features West.  He was also nominated for a Grammy award in 2019 for the Casting Crowns' song, "Only Jesus," as a songwriter.

West has written five books to date: Give This Christmas Away, The Story Of Your Life, Forgiveness, Today Is Day One and Hello, My Name Is.  He is also passionate about providing hope and healing through the power of prayer and story.  Along with his feather, Pastor Joe West, they founded POPWE, a non-profit ministry helping others to crate, share, and live in a more meaningful life.  For all things Matthew, visit MatthewWest.com.

This week Amy and Mike talk with authors Jimmy and Krsitin Scroggins about their book, Full Circle Parenting.

Parenting isn’t for wimps.

It's not just the routines, schedules, discipline, and heartaches—it's the hard conversations. One of the greatest challenges of parenting is navigating the crucial conversations that we must have with our kids.

Jimmy and Kristin Scroggins have been married for more than twenty five years and have eight children. Jimmy pastors a church in South Florida. They’ve had plenty of crucial conversations in their lives—not only with their own children, but with parents who are scared and seeking wisdom. They know they have to find a way to have those tough conversations from a biblical perspective and a distinctly Christian worldview, but they don’t know how.

If you’re like these parents, Full Circle Parenting was written for you. Using the 3 Circles gospel tool (God’s design; brokenness; gospel), Jimmy and Kristin will give you a “conversation map” to work through any tough conversations you have with your children, and will show you how it works with the following topics and more:

● Gender, Sexuality, and Marriage

● Technology

● Alcohol and Substance Abuse

● Bitterness, Forgiveness, and Restoration

● Friendship and Mean Kids

This week host Amy Parker and Mike Nawrocki talk with Author Lexi Young Pack about her new book What Do You Say to a Dragon, a whimsical book that empowers children to express their emotions and use their imaginations to change the power dynamic of anxiety while also giving parents a healthy approach to helping their kids face fears.

Lexi Peck is one of six children and the daughter of William Paul Young, author of The Shack. She was raised and still resides in the Pacific Northwest on a farm raising cattle with her husband, Josh, and their two children, Vivian and Xander.

She graduated summa cum laude from Portland State University with a BA in psychology, centering her studies on childhood development. Her passion to deeply understand how children develop and thrive in the world became a driving focus. Lexi became a children's author with the intention of passing on her insight to those who are hoping to engage parenting to the fullest.

Lexi's first children's book, What Do You Say to a Dragon?, was born out of a real-life situation with her daughter, Vivian, waking from a recurring nightmare. 

This week Amy and Mike catch up with author Jason Duesing and discuss his new picture book, The Moon Speaks.

Children love exploring the world around them—studying the flowers, playing in the dirt, and marveling at the clouds. “The Moon Speaks,” a poetic bedtime board book, shows that behind the creation children love so much stands the God who loves them even more. God speaks to us through the trees, telling of His strength. He speaks to us through the sun, telling of His glory. He speaks to us through the stars, telling of His infinity. Everywhere we look, God speaks!

This book’s steady and soothing text provides a calming, worshipful experience for children right before they fall asleep. But The Moon Speaks is also a book for anytime, helping young readers understand that all of creation is telling us something: God is there, He made the world around us, and He wants us to know Him!

Jason G. Duesing (BA, Texas A&M University; MDiv, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary; PhD, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary) serves as provost at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas City, Missouri.

Amy and Mike talk with Max Lucado this week about two new books for kids and teens - Where'd My Giggle Go? and Anxious for Nothing for Young People.

A whimsical picture book from New York Times bestselling author Max Lucado, Where'd My Giggle Go? helps your kids process their emotions in a fun, healthy way so they can transform from grumpy to laugh-out-loud happy.

"I felt kind of cranky. I felt kind of sad. I can't tell you why, but I even felt mad." For every child who sometimes feels out of sorts and doesn't know why, Where'd My Giggle Go? helps normalize and dissipate negative emotions in a delightful way.

A perfect read-aloud, Where'd My Giggle Go? provides:

• A natural way for you to talk with your kids about how we all get sad sometimes
• A reminder that we can help others find their happiness

Written for kids ages 8-12, this Bible-based book draws on content from Max Lucado's bestselling book Anxious for Nothing to help young people overcome the anxiety and pressures of today's world and come to a deeper understanding of God's constant, loving presence.

In this chaotic age of social media, packed schedules, and an increasing awareness of the world's problems, it's normal for young people to feel overwhelmed sometimes. But the good news of the gospel has not changed. This encouraging, let's-start-now book is the perfect tool to help tweens take control of their feelings and choose to focus on God's truth.

This week Amy and Mike talk with Ariel Corrales, Mom of 2 and Director of Marketing for Yippee, a new streaming service for kids and families and home to the brand new VeggieTale episodes.

Yippee is a safe place for your kids to watch new VeggieTales plus 1,000s of hours of faith filled series where characters are role models and you kids want to watch it again (and again!).

No ads, no algorithms, no sassy attitudes. Just good shows your kids will actually want to watch including hand-picked YouTubers reviewed and screen by parents like you.

Yippe is  changing kids' lives with TV shows and equipping you, parents, with tips and tools you need to develop character in your kids and grow their faith.

This week Mike and Amy talk with Kendra Roehl, Julie Fisk, and Kristin Demery, cofounders of The Ruth Experienceabout their new book, 100 Daily Acts of Friendship for Girls.

Designed for girls 8-12, 100 Daily Acts of Friendship for Girls teaches what God says about friendship and will give them practical, everyday tips for developing lifelong relationships. Each devotion includes a Scripture verse, a short story about friendship, questions to ponder, a “Daily Act of Friendship” section with ways for living out what they have learned, and 50 bonus ideas for putting friendship into action.

Girls will not only learn how to develop godly friendships with others but will discover how to be friends with Jesus—the friend who will never disappoint and will always stand beside them.

100 Daily Acts of Friendship for Girls is available wherever books are sold.

Bios

Kendra Roehl, Julie Fisk, and Kristin Demery are cofounders of The Ruth Experience. Together, they connect with thousands of women online through real, raw stories of living out faith.

Kendra and her husband are advocates for foster care, taking in more than twenty children in six years and adopting three of them. She is a frequent speaker and has written five books.

After a 15-year career as a lawyer, Julie decided to follow her dream of becoming an author. When she's not writing or speaking, you can find Julie with her family filling their home and backyard with friends.

Kristin is a former journalist and editor, and she has written five books. Her work has been featured in publications such as USA Today. An adventurer at heart, she loves checking items off her family’s bucket list.

Amy and Mike talk with authors Dr. Josh and Christ Straub about their adorable new board book, What Would I Do With Worry?

Today’s world can be overwhelming to children, who are experiencing worry and anxiety at younger ages and unprecedented levels. Dr. Josh and Christi Straub—authors, leaders, and family advocates—are passionate about giving parents knowledge and resources to help their children navigate these emotions. The couple offered their wisdom and relevance in their first picture book, “What Am I Feeling?” and they continue to do so in this follow-up board book, matching a fun story with practical lessons and memorable mantras to help kids not only face down their worry today but as they grow into tomorrow as well.

Joshua Straub Ph.D. is most renowned for his role as a husband and dad. He is also a recovering human, an ongoing journey that includes therapy, coaching, a tight-knit faith community, and staying fit. On stage, Josh is a speaker, author, marriage and leadership coach, university professor, and a podcast and TV cohost.

Christi Straub M.A., M.B.A. is most famous as a wife and momma to two feisty kiddos. On stage, Christi is a speaker, author, marriage and wellness coach, and a podcast and TV cohost.

Amy and Mike talk this week with authors Crystal Bowman and Teri McKinley about their adorable new book, My Arms Will Hold You Tight.

Each page in this whimsical board book features illustrations of beloved animals—including llamas, elephants, and sloths—along with fun surprises like bats and flamingos. Authors Crystal Bowman and Teri McKinley are masterful with rhyming and bring the tenderness of heartfelt love between these adorable baby animals and their parents to life. My Arms Will Hold You Tight will appeal to the whole family and is sure to be a favorite book for Mom, Dad, Grandma, or Grandpa to read with their precious little ones.

A fun episode this week with Amy Parker talking with co-host Mike Nawrocki and his new partner in animation - the talented Steve Taylor, about taking Mike's The Dead Sea Squirrels series of books into an animated series.

THE DEAD SEA SQUIRRELS (from Mike Nawrocki, co-creator of VeggieTales and voice of Larry the Cucumber) tells the story of Merle and Pearl, two 1st century squirrels from Israel who’ve been preserved in sea salt in a cave alongside the Dead Sea, When 10-year-old Michael discovers them 2000 years later and sneaks them home in his backpack, hijinks ensue after this salty couple reanimate and take their new friend on adventures full of action, humor, music, and character-building lessons.

Mike's team includes renowned Disney animator Tom Bancroft and legendary producer Steve Taylor.

You can learn more at DeadSeaSquirrels.com

This week Amy and Mike have an opportunity to talk to the President of RightNow Media, Brian Mosley.  Also joining the conversation is Jim Fitzgerald and Randall Niles from Coldwater Media to talk about their brands Bible Unearthed and Drive Thru History which are popular on the Kids channel on RNM.

RightNow Media's Kids channel includes more than 125 brands featuring content for kids and the family - all available to stream free of charge for families whose church subscribe.

About RightNow Media

We love the local church and love to see Christians live out their faith. We pray that God would use our Kids content to transform the way people engage the world for Christ.

We believe the mission of the church matters. Everything we do at RightNow Media is rooted in Jesus’s promise that God will use his people to change the world.

We’re here to serve the church. We provide Christians across the globe with resources that will inspire them to champion the mission Jesus gave to his people—making disciples of all nations. God calls us to focus our lives on him rather than on ourselves. Whether in church, in the workplace, or at home, we want to see disciples of Jesus loving God and loving others.

Amy and Mike talk to Mario DeMatteo about his graphic novel Bible story series featuring Paul and Peter.

As a young man, Mario DeMatteo dreamed of telling stories like those told in his favorite Disney films and in series like Star Wars and Lord of the Rings. In 2014, Mario’s whole life was flipped upside down after he survived a tragic diving accident that left him with a broken neck and permanently paralyzed. Through the grace of God, perseverance, an amazing family and friends, and a whole lot of prayer, Mario found a calling in comic books and graphic novels as a powerful way to spread literacy and the Gospel of Jesus.

In an era of social media obsession and technology-driven entertainment, teaching biblical stories to young people can be a challenge. In his two volume graphic novel series Graphic Story Bible (BroadStreet® Publishing Group), Mario DeMatteo with Ben Avery (writer), Mark Harmon (illustrations), and Ismael Castro (Colorist) have created a colorful adventure based on the story of Apostle Peter and Apostle Paul as told in the New Testament. Holding true to the Bible scriptures, though set in a futuristic world with cartoon creatures, this adaptation will captivate young readers while teaching biblical values, such as:

• The Transforming Power of Redemption: The transformation of Saul, who persecuted and killed Christians, into the spiritual disciple of Paul is one of the greatest conversion stories and reminds us that God can redeem any sin.
• Christ is Our Example of Compassion and Love: If we want to be a true example of Christ and draw others to him, we should exemplify his characteristics of love and forgiveness and his practice of praying for our enemies.
• Persecution of Faith Brings Blessings: Peter, Paul and other Christians were physically persecuted for their faith, and some were even killed. Their testimonies remind us that Christ is with us—especially during times of persecution, and he offers us a great reward for our commitment to him.
• Pursue Your Life’s Calling: Mario asked God to show him how to use his gifts and talents. Once we identify our gifts, we should utilize them to bless others, fulfill our calling, and glorify God.

This week Amy and Mike talk with author Talitha Shipman about her new book Finding Beauty.

You are beautiful from the top of your head to the tip of your toes--but beauty is far more than something you can have. It's also something you have to find. In other people. In nature. In acts of kindness. In math, and art, and music, and sports.

In this beautiful inspirational book for girls, author-illustrator Talitha Shipman turns the concept of beauty inside out, transforming girls into beauty-seeking adventurers charging out into the world with confidence and ambition to find beauty and make beauty wherever they go.

Talitha Shipman is a picture book author and illustrator born and raised in Indiana. Her favorite subjects to paint are wild kids and wild animals. Nature inspires Talitha's painting, and she hopes her work encourages curiosity and creativity in children of all ages.

Talitha has worked with publishers large and small. Her books include the Sidney Taylor Honor recipient, Everybody Says Shalom by Leslie Kimmelman (Random House Books for Young Readers, 2015), an American Farm Bureau Recommended Read, Applesauce Day by Lisa Amstutz, (Albert Whitman, 2017), and most recently, a 2019 IPPY Silver Medalist, First Snow by Nancy Viau (Albert Whitman, 2018).

Talitha lives in Fort Wayne, Indiana with her husband and their five-year-old wild child, Coral.

Amy and Mike talk to author Michael Kelley about his new devotional book for families!

Parents are called to be the primary spiritual influence in the lives of their children. That means we, as parents, should help them know and understand the Bible so they can know, love, and understand God and His Son, Jesus. But so many parents feel overwhelmed and exhausted at the thought of discipling their children. Where to begin?

“The Whole Story for the Whole Family” is a step in the right direction. In an easy-to-use and simple format, this devotional guide will equip parents to start teaching their children the Bible. Rather than seeing the Bible as a mis-matched collection of random stories about different characters in history, your kids can see the Bible as one story, woven throughout space and time, with one character standing at the center: Jesus. Through the use of an object lesson every day, digestible sections of Scripture, and simple discussion questions, “The Whole Story for the Whole Family” can help kids understand God's ongoing story and find their place in it.

Michael Kelley is a husband and father of three who lives in Nashville, Tennessee, where he serves as the Sr. Vice President of Church Ministries for LifeWay Christian Resources. He is also the author of “Wednesdays Were Pretty Normal: A Boy, Cancer, and God”, “Boring: Finding an Extraordinary God in an Ordinary Life”, and “Growing Down”. Follow him on Twitter at @_michaelkelley or read more content like this at michaelkelley.co.

It's Randall and Amy Goodgame - talking with Mike and Amy about the second season of the Slugs & Bugs Show!

Welcome to The Slugs & Bugs Show, where you’ll laugh along with Doug, Sparky, Maggie, Morty, and special guests while musician Randall Goodgame find ways to capture their quirky and faith-filled adventures in catchy songs. It’s delightful, hand-crafted fun for kids of all ages! From a producer of VeggieTales.

Episode themes include: Teamwork, Racial Injustice and Equity, Two Kinds of Cool, Mentors, Community, Chores, Power of Words, Sharing, Adoption, Misinterpretation, Prayer, Fairness, Collaboration, Friendship, Difference, Creativity, Love, and Wonder

Episode guests include: Big Easy of the Harlem Globetrotters, Musician and Author Andrew Peterson, NASA Astronaut Patrick Forrester, Olympian Scott Hamilton, Musician Ellie Holcomb, Musician Buddy Green, Pastor Glenda Sutton, and many more.

This week Amy and Mike talk to author Laura Sassi about her new children's book, Little Ewe: The Story of One Lost Sheep.

Little Ewe would rather jump on logs and investigate spider webs than follow the shepherd when he calls. But what happens when she gets lost? How will she find her way home? Told in whimsical rhyme, this humorous counting book for our littlest ones is a delightful reminder that, like a loving parent, our Shepherd will find us and care for us, even when we wander from the path. 

Laura Sassi has a passion for telling stories in prose and rhyme. She is the author of five picture books including the best-selling Goodnight, Ark (Zonderkidz), which was a 2015 Christian Book Award Finalist; Goodnight, Manger (Zonderkidz); Diva Delores and the Opera House Mouse (Sterling Children’s Books), which won First Honor Book for the 2019 Best in Rhyme Award; Love Is Kind (Zonderkidz), which was a 2020 Anna Dewdney Read Together Award Honor Book; and Little Ewe: The Story of One Lost Sheep which releases with Beaming Books this month. Her board book Bunny Finds Easter will debut in 2022. In addition to books, she’s published over one hundred poems, stories, crafts, and articles in various children’s publications.

A graduate of Princeton University and UCLA, Sassi had a successful teaching career before becoming a children’s author. She’s been a homeschool mom, children’s ministry director, historic museum interpreter, and more. She writes daily from her home in New Jersey and finds special joy in sharing her love of reading and writing with the next generation at school visits and other book events.

This week Amy and Mike discuss Amy's latest title in her God Is series from Running Press/Hachette books, God Is Hope.

Little ones will feel hopeful of God's eternal love and presence in this charming holiday-themed board book in a series by bestselling author Amy Parker.

God Is Hope provides young children with the comfort of knowing God brings hope into the world, no matter the day, time, season, or year, in this charming, sweet, and heartfelt book. With warm, rhyming verse, bestselling author Amy Parker reassures young hearts by introducing them to the awesome characteristics of an Almighty God.

With a focus on spring and Easter, Parker's book offers reminders of how God's hope is infectious during this very special season. Part of a series, God Is Hope is sure to be read and cherished all year long.

Amy Parker has written and co-written more than sixty books for children, teens, and adults, with 2 million copies sold. She has collaborated with authors  ranging from New York Times bestsellers to her very own son. Two of  these collaborations, Firebird and Courageous Teens, are recipients of Christian Retailing’s Best Awards. But Amy’s greatest reward is being a wife to Daniel and a mom to their amazing sons, Michael and Ethan.

This episode first aired in 4th quarter of 2020 and features Randall Goodgame talking about the new Adventures from the Workshop 5 book set.  Due to covid issues at port the books were delayed and just released so be sure and check out the episode and also the books by visiting SlugsandBugs.com and click the ShowBooks tab.  You might also find something fun going on at the SlugStarter page!

This week Amy and Mike catch up with Kristy Cambron and talk verse mapping and new bibles for both kids and adults!

A new line of Bibles are revolutionizing the way adults and children are reading and, more importantly, understanding Scripture through verse mapping. Award winning author and former women’s ministry leader and speaker, Kristy Cambron, created a unique technique of verse mapping that invites readers to do more than simply read a verse or passage.

Cambron’s system also allows for families and Bible study groups to come together to develop new meaningful study habits. The NIV Verse Mapping Bible for Girls (January 2021, Zondervan) puts the same verse mapping format into a fresh, youthful design for girls eight and up, giving them a template and foundation for starting their own exploration of Scriptures.

The NIV Verse Mapping Bible and Verse Mapping Bible for Girls give readers the tools they need to start a deeper journey to understanding the Word of God. Each Bible features guided instructions on how verse mapping works, where to start, and how to get the most from your time in the Word. This includes 350 partially completed maps spanning all 66 books of the Bible.

Cambron’s 5-step verse mapping process provides tools to go deeper in research and learn more about what God is saying through His Word.

Kristy Cambron is a vintage-inspired storyteller, writing both award-winning historical fiction and Bible Studies. She’s served as a Women’s Ministry Leader and speaks at events across the country, encouraging women to experience a deeper life in the Word through verse mapping. Her work has been named to the Publishers Weekly Religion & Spirituality TOP 10, Library Journal Reviews’ Best Books, RT Reviewers’ Choice Awards, has received multiple INSPY Award nominations, and is a 2020 Christy Award Finalist.

On this episode Amy and Mike talk with Cindy Bultema Executive Director of GEMS Girls Clubs.

WHAT IS GEMS GIRLS' CLUBS?

Cindy Bultema has a powerful testimony of overcoming loss and addiction. Once a young mom who suffered from alcohol and drug addiction, Cindy now is a passionate speaker, author, and Bible teacher of two Bible studies for women (Red Hot Faith and Live Full Walk Free), as well as the Executive Director of GEMS, a non-profit ministry impacting the lives of thousands of girls worldwide.

Cindy lives in West Michigan with her husband, John and their four children. Jesus, coffee, confetti, family, and believing that being real is the only way to live are favorites that fill her day. You may also find her walking her two naughty puppies, who like to make messes and eat the most unusual things.

This week Amy and Mike catch up with blogger/author Monica Swanson about her new book!

When author and blogger Monica Swanson watched as her blog post “What a Teenage Boy Needs Most from His Mom” was shared by nearly two million readers in just over a week, she knew she had struck a chord with moms across the world.

This guidebook, packed with wisdom, practical advice, resources, and encouragement, explores how moms can equip their sons with what they most need to succeed in life.

Monica Swanson knew she'd tapped a heartfelt concern when nearly two million readers shared her blog post "What a Teenage Boy Needs Most from His Mom." In this helpful book, she takes mothers deeper into the insights they need for the boy-raising journey, covering topics from dealing with the daily influences of friends and technology to helping a boy grow to be physically, spiritually, and emotionally healthy. She also addresses learning and finding passions, perspectives on relationships and dating, and work ethics and money management. Each chapter features relatable stories, handy checklists, and practical advice based on a combination of research, experience, and biblical truth to guide and equip a mom in helping her son achieve his God-given potential.

Monica Swanson is the author of Boy Mom: What Your Son Needs Most from You and popular blogger who has contributed to the Today show website, Huffington Post, and The MOB Mothers of Boys Society. Host of the Boy Mom podcast, Monica enjoys speaking at women’s events and has been interviewed in numerous media outlets including the Happy Hour with Jamie Ivey andDon’t Mom Alone podcasts. Monica and her doctor-husband have one son in college and homeschool the other three.

Amy and Mike talk story with Melina Smith, founder of StoryMakers

StoryMakers is dedicated to equipping parents and churches with tools to engage children in the redemptive narrative of the Gospel through creativity and play. We create beautifully printed magazines (“zines”), memory cards, playbooks, and vibrant visuals that give kids and grown-ups the chance to connect while exploring the greatest stories ever told. 

Ten years ago, Melina began to develop children’s content because it was difficult to find resources that contained the Gospel, inspired creativity, and engaged children from a social-emotional space. It seemed that much of Sunday School materials had been reduced simply to moralism packaged in cartoons or worksheets. So, she imagined the possibility of creating a new way to teach the faith to children, an approach that considered the whole child and their church experience. In 2018, she launched StoryMakers NYC 

Welcome to 2021!  On this new podcast, hosts Amy Parker and Mike Nawrocki talk with author Tammy Bundy about her book Lullaby Prayer!

This bedtime book will calm your kids to sleep with a promise of God's peaceful presence all night long. As gentle scenes move through a sleepy farm in Lullaby Prayer, lyrical lines lull little listeners into rest. As the moon smiles, fireflies dance, and darkness unfolds her blanket to drape the landscape in cozy quiet, the sounds of a country evening become a bedtime ballad in this sweet, comforting prayer poem.

This beautiful picture book from award-winning author Tamara Bundyfeatures

• an evocative poem that imagines nature’s nighttime sounds as a love song to your child from God
• rhythmic verse that is a joy to read aloud at story time
• Jill Howarth's rich and imaginative illustrations of a country farm and its animals
• a prayer for your little one at the end of each stanza

The embellished cover makes this picture book perfect for birthdays, baptisms, adoption parties, baby showers, or holiday gift giving for ages 4 to 8. Lullaby Prayer is sure to be a soothing part of your bedtime ritual as you tuck your little one into God's loving care.

Tamara Bundy, a graduate of the Ohio State University, is a former columnist for the Cincinnati Post. She teaches English at Miami University where she received her Master’s Degree. Tamara is the author or co-author of seven non-fiction books. Her debut middle grade novel, Walking with Miss Millie (Nancy Paulsen/Penguin) won several awards including the Ohioana Award for Middle Grade/Young Adult Fiction and has landed on many state reading lists. Her second middle grade novel, Pixie Pushes On, also from Paulsen/Penguin came out earlier this year. Bundy’s debut picture book, Lullaby Prayer, just released from HarperCollins Christian.

This podcast is a repost from earlier in the year - we have so many new friends and listeners we thought you might love to hear this.

Amy interviews Mike about his ongoing Dead Sea Squirrels early reader series from Tyndale - these are perfect for young readers and a great last minute Christmas gift from Amazon or other retailers.

This podcast is a repeat from earlier this year - we have many new friends and listeners and this book would be an EXCELLENT last minute Christmas gift for your child or family.

Mike interviews co-host Amy Parker and co-author Doug Powell about their new Tyndale book - The Big Book of Bible Questions.

Uncover the mysteries of the Bible with bestselling children’s author Amy Parker and apologist Doug Powell as they team up to answer some of the biggest questions kids have about the Bible and theology.

The Big Book of Bible Questions addresses kids’ toughest Bible questions with theologically sound answers in a way that is relatable and engaging. It’s filled with fun facts, debunking of common misconceptions, and explanations of biblical and theological concepts. With eye-catching illustrations and real-life photos, this book will not only answer a kid’s Bible questions big and small, but it will also encourage spiritual conversations and a lifelong love of learning about the glory and wonder of faith, the Bible, and God.

Amy and Mike finish up the 2020 season with returning guest Erin Weidemann to discuss Ringleaders, a new book in Truth Becomes Here's Bible Belle's brand.

The Adventures of Rooney Cruz was inspired by her niece and features main character Rooney Cruz, a young girl experiencing the normal challenges found in daily life who finds inspiration through the stories of women in the Bible. The series’ first books, Bible Belles, features Old Testament Biblical heroes Hannah, Esther, Abigail, Ruth and Deborah. In each story, Rooney encounters each woman’s powerful journey and learns important truths about prayer, patience, bravery, loyalty and leadership. Nearly 500,000 copies of the books have been sold and are impacting young girls all over the world.

Rooney’s adventure continues in the new book, Ringleaders, launching October 2020. Rooney meets six women from the New Testament: Elizabeth, Mary the Mother of Jesus, the Samaritan Woman (at the Well), Mary and Martha, and Mary Magdalene. Through the stories of these women, Rooney learns she can use her voice to share the Good News that God has called her to deliver. Young readers will be inspired to identify their own voice and use it for God’s glory and to build His Kingdom.

Five-time cancer survivor Erin Weidemann is co-founder of Truth Becomes Her, a brand that equips moms and women with resources to help them step into their unique leadership roles. The creator and author of the bestselling The Adventures of Rooney Cruz series for young girls, Erin is a nationally recognized speaker, radio personality, certified teacher and sought-after homeschool consultant, and host of the Heroes for Her Podcast.

Erin is a spokesperson for World Vision and an active advocate for the American Cancer Society. Erin is a graduate of Penn State University with a double major in Journalism and Spanish. She and her husband, Brent, recently relocated from the San Diego oceanfront to enjoy the charm of a small, picturesque town in Montana, along with their two miracle daughters.

This week hosts Amy Parker and Mike Nawrocki talk with Michelle Nietert, about her new book Loved and Cherished.

Michelle is a licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor has been providing therapeutic interventions to children and their families incounseling offices for over 20 years. As a previous educator, public school crisis counselor, and youth and children’s minister, she interacts regularly with parents and students at public school assemblies, PTA meetings, local churches, and is the mental health consultant for a local private Christian school.

She also joins her audiences in the parenting trenches as a happily married mom of two-school aged children. To discover her Counselor Thoughts blog and podcast providing Solutions for Life, please visit www.MichelleNietert.com . 

L O V E D A N D C H E R I S E D

So often, girls and women give in to the lies that how they look and how popular they are determines their worth. But as children of God, we can have the confidence that we are loved, protected, secure, whole, and valuable because God is our heavenly father.

Loved and Cherished equips girls ages 8–12 to:

Discover perfect, unconditional love in God, and that she doesn’t have to perform or be perfect to receive that love.

Know she has God’s protection, despite living in an often scary world.

Let go of heartaches, fears, and failures, because she has the love she needs to face it.

Build a strong foundation of faith on the love who will never leave her so she can face the challenges of growing up.

Mike and Amy talk to podcast triple threat Randall Goodgame, creator of Slugs & Bugs about exciting new things - a new book set called Adventures from the Workshop and Beyond and a new Christmas special Make Ready for Christmas!

Make Ready for Christmas

As Randall and friends prepare for Christmas, Maggie decides to expand the annual Sing-Along into a full-blown Christmas Eve pageant spectacular! Randall introduces everyone to the season of Advent, and Doug discovers something mysterious going on when chocolate chips go missing. Neighbor Scott Hamilton announces he's building a huge 12 Days of Christmas display, and Maggie finds herself called on to sacrifice more and more of her pageant dreams to help her friends. With so much activity and a dizzying carousel of friends stopping by, will Christmas end in disappointment or will the Workshop bunch embrace the invitation of the season and experience the true meaning of Christmas?

Adventures from the Workshop and Beyond!

Join Doug the Slug, Sparky the Lightning Bug, Morty and Maggie Raccoon for a series of adventures from the workshop and beyond! Imaginations are kindled, hijinks are uncovered, along with timeless truths about life and faith. Delightful, whimsical, hand-crafted fun for kids of all ages.

Ages 3-7 | All 5 books - 32-page 8 x 10" hard-cover picture books in a limited edition box.

Amy and Mike talk with author Emily Assell about her new series of board books for kids - Generation Claimed.

Each book in the Generation Claimed series contains life-giving promises from Scripture that remind all God’s children, both young and old, of who they are in Him. Page after page shares a promise from God and the corresponding scripture from the Bible. Readers will be transformed from the inside out and rest easier in God’s love for them. This 3-book set of board books includes the following:

• You Are: Scripture promises reminding readers of who God says they are
• Tonight: Scripture promises for a peaceful night’s rest
• Chosen: Scripture promises that reveal God has a plan for each person’s life

Words are powerful. Speak God’s life-giving Word over your children, and claim this generation for his Kingdom.

Emily is a first time childrens' book author. Her passion is to call this generation to be a generation whose hearts and lives belong to Christ. She believes that your child, grandchild, niece, nephew, loved one is a child of God and has a right to an abundant life. It is Emily's prayer that her books plant deep within your children who and whose they are. She believes God's Word, and uses her words to join in agreement with Him, that together we may claim the lives of this generation as His! She does most of her writing at night after her 3 precious children are tucked quietly into bed. Emily is a nurse, a speaker, a wife, a mom, and now an author, but credits it all to her great God.

Mike and Amy talked to author and speaker Jennie Allen about her new series for kids, Theolaby, a 5 book series that tells the story of God from creation to heaven.

From Jennie:

Fifteen years ago, I found myself smack in the middle of raising (and surviving) a house full of little ones. I wanted to know God for myself and teach my children about who He is. As I did, I found myself searching for the right resources to help.

They wanted to know what kind of slingshot David used, how long Moses floated in a basket, and what other fruit was in the garden, but I struggled to get them to connect to the heart of God—His character and His power in their life.

That’s when I began dreaming about Theolaby.

I wanted resources that caused my kids not to just know about God, but to experience His power and His love for them. My greatest prayer was that my kids would have a personal relationship with Jesus. So in that effort, the pages of 'The Story of God' series were creatively written directly to children and aretheologically grounded in Scripture. Under the words in these books, we’ve provided the scriptures that inspired them, and we encourage parents to read both to their child.

My other hope and prayer for my kids is that, as a family, we can come together and talk openly about God and His Word. No topic or question off limits! But even my seminary degree couldn’t have prepared me for the deep questions I would get from my five-year old son! On the last page of each book, we have given parents a simple activity guide to inspire great memories and conversations with their kids, based on each story they will read to them. My prayer is that Theolaby would be pivotal to children’s understanding of God’s character and their relationship with the Creator.

Their little minds grasp more than we think! Let’s give them a huge, fun, and personal understanding of Jesus and His plans for them!

Amy and Mike talk with Josh Straub about the book Advent with 25 Days of the Christmas Story: An Advent Family Experience written with his wife Christi.

Josh and Christi Straub are speakers, authors, and marriage and leadership coaches. Together, they lead  Famous at Home, an organization equipping families and leaders to be famous at home, so they can thrive on their stage. Both Fellows of the Townsend Institute for Leadership and Counseling, together they host the weekly Famous at Home podcast, write children’s books including What Am I Feeling? and cohost Sex, Love, and Relationships on the Hillsong Channel. Josh and Christi love spending time on the lake with their three sweet kids, Landon Kennedy, and Micah, and their feisty goldendoodle, Copper.

25 Days of the Christmas Story: An Advent Family Experience helps families spend a few moments of each day leading up to Christmas focusing on the true joys and meaning of Christmas. This is a devotional perfect for families of all shapes, sizes, and schedules. Each of the 25 days highlights a different person, place, or object from the Christmas story—from the prophet Isaiah to Baby Jesus, from the Christmas star to the gift of frankincense. All devotions include an easy-to-read story, character trait, activity, and more—each designed to reinforce the main theme of the day.

Your family can choose simply to read each day’s story or to go deeper and engage with each day’s features. Either way, parents and children are sure to learn and celebrate the season of Advent together while having fun in the process!

A true heirloom in the making, the book includes pages in the back where parents and kids can record memories of each day’s activities and write journal entries to look back on year after year, Christmas after Christmas.

Amy and Mike catch up with BibleForce creator Wayne McCay on this weeks episode.  Lots going on with BibleForce including the free Audio app, lots of new website material and the Jesus Lives book and video series.

If your children are fans of comic books and graphic novels, they'll enjoy reading about the action and adventures of biblical heroes retold in BibleForce. With captivating artwork and a fast-paced narrative, this Bible storybook shares nearly 200 stories of Scripture. BibleForce is perfect for:

• Readers, ages 6-10
• Read aloud group sessions or solo reads
• Beginning honest discussions about the drama of the Bible with children
• Highlighting the amazing heroes of the Bible

Every BibleForce purchase comes with free access to the BibleForce app, available on iTunes and Android. Children will enjoy:

• A child friendly overview of the Bible: the law, history, poetry & wisdom, and the prophets
• An easy-to-follow illustrated timeline of events
• Resourceful maps to help visualize locations and landmarks

Kids will be fascinated by the thrilling drama of the Bible and the detail of the illustrations--they won't be able to put down this exciting book. Jump into the story of God's Word and discover the amazing heroes within its pages.

Check out the rest of the series, BibleForce.net

This week Amy and Mike talk with Art Ayris and Linda Howard regarding the new comic/graphic book, The Epic Bible: God’s Story of Redemption and Love from Eden to Eternity.

Get swept away by God’s awesome story in this riveting graphic Bible. A stunning visual journey, The Epic Bible tells the central story of the Bible, with dramatic, full-color art created by DC and Marvel artists. Whether you’re reading the Bible for the first time or looking for a fresh perspective, The Epic Bible’s cinematic storytelling will make God’s Word come alive. Perfect for teens, comic book fans, and reluctant readers.

Art Ayris is the founder of Kingstone Media and the Executive Editor of the Kingstone Bible which was a Finalist for 2017 Christian Book of the Year, Children’s category. Writing and producing recognition and credit include Best TV Movie Hollywood’s Next Success contest, Best Feature Florida Film & Television, Best Feature Angel Awards, several major motion picture options, over 60 comic book and animation credits to date. 

Linda Howard is Associate Publisher for Children and Youth at Tyndale House Publishers. She brings an extensive background working with children and children’s products to her role including teaching, marketing, and product development for several brands. Linda currently leads the kids’ team, developing overall strategy for Tyndale Children and Youth, acquiring projects, and overseeing product development of all books. She has also worked in the marketing arena and built strong relationships with several of Tyndale’s publishing partners. She oversees the Compassion International Publishing partnership and has worked with best-selling authors, Mike Nawrocki, Amy Parker, Ann Voskamp, and more.

Linda’s enthusiasm and passion for bringing children to a deeper understanding of Christ is what drives her acquisitions choices. Helping authors to publish and shape products that start children on a path to spiritual maturity is a responsibility she takes seriously, and she is grateful for the opportunity to serve.

Amy and Mike talk in this episode with Jesse Florea editor of "Family Clubhouse" from Focus on the Family, about his new book Defend Your Faith - 100 Devotions for Kids with Questions.

Why do you believe in God?

Answering that question might seem hard, but it’s important. “Defend Your Faith: 100 Devotions for Kids with Questions” introduces young believers to apologetics. These devotions give readers real tools and real answers for why they believe in God and why they trust the Bible.

Through the easy-to-digest entries, kids will look into the universe and see how God’s fingerprints are all over creation. They’ll dig in the dirt to uncover archeological evidence. And they’ll hear stories of real-life defenders of the faith who inspire us to do the same.

The “Defend Your Faith” devotional is written for kids 8 to 12, the age when many make a decision for Christ. Let’s equip and empower them to know what they believe, why they believe it, and how to defend it.

Jesse Florea has worked at Focus on the Family for nearly 20 years. For more than 15, he's been the editor of “Focus on the Family Clubhouse” (for boys and girls ages eight to twelve). He earned bachelor and master's degrees in communications from Wheaton College in Illinois.

Jesse has written or co-written several other books (including “The One Year Sports Devotions for Kids,” “Adventures of Average Boy: Growing Up Super Average,” “The One-Year Devos for Sports Fans” and “The One-Year Everyday Devotions.” He lives with his wife, Stephanie, and two teenagers, Nate and Amber, in Colorado Springs.

This week Amy and Mike talk with author Dan DeWitt who has written a number of books for kids including Why God? and his latest The Bright Light and the Super Scary Darkness.

Dan DeWitt (PhD, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) is associate professor of applied theology and apologetics and the director of the Center for Biblical Apologetics and Public Christianity at Cedarville University. He is the author of several books, including “Why God?” (B&H Kids, 2019), “Life in the Wild” (The Good Book Company, 2018), and “Jesus or Nothing” (Crossway, 2014). He posts regularly on his blog, theolatte.com.

Have you ever been super scared of the dark?

The Bright Light and the Super Scary Darkness uses the imagery of darkness and light to help children understand God’s power over evil. With an emphasis on Jesus, the Light of the World, this book reassures children ages 4-8 who struggle with fear and anxiety and offers them courage from God’s Word. Kids will find comfort in the book’s reassuring tone and brilliant illustrations, which show that Jesus’ love is strong enough to defeat even the super scary darkness.

In this weeks episode Amy and Mike talk with Dorena Williamson about her books Thoughtful, Gracefull and Colorful.

Dorena Williamson is a bridge builder, speaker, writer, and worship leader who knows the power and beauty of racial awareness. She and her husband, Dr. Chris Williamson, planted Strong Tower Bible Church in Nashville, Tennessee, and have spent more than twenty years ministering to its richly diverse faith community. Dorena and Chris have four children.

Why be colorblind when we can be colorFULL instead?

Imani and Kayla are the best of friends who are learning to celebrate their different skin colors. As they look around them at the amazing colors in nature, they can see that their skin is another example of God's creativity! This joyful story takes a new approach to discussing race: instead of being colorblind, we can choose to celebrate each color God gave us and be colorFULL instead.  

On this weeks episode Mike and Amy talk with Cynthia Yanof about her new book, her podcast, and The Bible for Kids Podcast joining the Christian Parenting Podcast Network (Yeah!)

About Cynthia Yanof

This week Amy and Mike continue their discussion with Sergio Cariello, illustrator of The Action Bible and Michelle Baird from Cook Publishing. Arriving this September, and updated version of The Action Bible will feature 25 new Bible stories and 23 expanded stories – all illustrated by Marvel and DC Comics artist Sergio Cariello.

The Action Bible family of products has more than 85 million units in print worldwide since it launched in 2010. The original The Action Bible has sold more than 2.3 million copies and has spent more than 515 weeks on the ECPA Top 50 bestseller list. It is available in 27 languages globally, with 10-15 additional language translations to be completed in 2020.

Sergio Cariello studied at the Word of Life Bible Institute (in Brazil and New York) as well as the Joe Kubert School of Cartooning (New York). He drew superheroes for Marvel and DC Comics and served as an instructor at the Kubert School. Sergio has spent more than a decade bringing the Bible to life for children and adults around the world.

“It’s been the privilege of my life to combine my faith and art in The Action Bible. I loved to study the Bible before I began drawing The Action Bible, so these illustrations are the result of a continuous walk with Christ,” explains Sergio Cariello. “Drawing Captain America or Batman is fantastic, but drawing Jesus is different because I know the Holy Spirit is touching readers’ hearts through my drawings.”

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

This week Amy and Mike catch up with Sergio Cariello, illustrator of The Action Bible and Michelle Baird from Cook Publishing. Arriving this September, and updated version of The Action Bible will feature 25 new Bible stories and 23 expanded stories – all illustrated by Marvel and DC Comics artist Sergio Cariello.

The Action Bible family of products has more than 85 million units in print worldwide since it launched in 2010. The original The Action Bible has sold more than 2.3 million copies and has spent more than 515 weeks on the ECPA Top 50 bestseller list. It is available in 27 languages globally, with 10-15 additional language translations to be completed in 2020.

Sergio Cariello studied at the Word of Life Bible Institute (in Brazil and New York) as well as the Joe Kubert School of Cartooning (New York). He drew superheroes for Marvel and DC Comics and served as an instructor at the Kubert School. Sergio has spent more than a decade bringing the Bible to life for children and adults around the world.

“It’s been the privilege of my life to combine my faith and art in The Action Bible. I loved to study the Bible before I began drawing The Action Bible, so these illustrations are the result of a continuous walk with Christ,” explains Sergio Cariello. “Drawing Captain America or Batman is fantastic, but drawing Jesus is different because I know the Holy Spirit is touching readers’ hearts through my drawings.”

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

This week on the podcast Mike gets to interview Amy about her new picture books releasing this month from Tommy Nelson, "How to Get a Mommy to Sleep and How to Get a Daddy to Sleep."

With so much keeping parents up at night, a sweet bedtime story can give families time to reflect, relax and relish the end of the day together. With a strong reputation for cute and creative bedtime books featuring parent-child relationships, best-selling author Amy Parker releases two new books, How to Get a Daddy to Sleep  and How to Get a Mommy to Sleep on sale wherever books are sold, Sept. 1.

Brought to life with vibrant and silly illustrations from Natalia Moore, How to Get a Daddy to Sleep and How to Get a Mommy to Sleep picture books will captivate the attention of little ones. Written as if from one child to another, these fun, role-reversal stories explore the amusing notion — what if kids were in charge of bedtime?

Also keep your eyes peeled for Amy's new book in her Night Night series, Night Night Pumpkin - available now (spotted in 10" edition at Sams).

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Hosts Amy Parker and Mike Nawrocki catch up with one of our favorites Yancy on this weeks episode of the podcast to talk about what's new with her!  She just released new music in her Little Praise Party series and always has a lot of fun happening!

With boundless energy, a myriad of creative channels, an unflinching commitment to evangelism and a heart of worship at every diverse turn, Yancy Ministries is rapidly becoming a premiere destination for uplifting entertainment and church resources used all across the globe.

You can find Yancy at https://yancyministries.com or listen to her music on your favorite platform at https://sc.lnk.to/yancy.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Amy and Mike discuss teens and financial challenges on this weeks podcast. Very timely with school starting back up in it's many variances this year.

Today’s teens are faced with more financial opportunities—and threats—than ever before, from summer jobs and scholarships to credit card applications and student loans. How are young people supposed to learn to avoid early pitfalls that could devastate their financial futures and instead take steps that can set them up for a future filled with security, contentment, and generosity? “The Money Challenge for Teens” can help.

Author Art Rainer introduces readers to some fictional young friends who are navigating financial waters and learning how God would want them to face college choices and car loans and thoughts about retirement (yes, even as a teenager!). While reading about the fictional friends’ steps and missteps, readers will learn simple, practical lessons and adopt real-life goals to start their journey to a healthy and godly financial future.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Amy and Mike catch up with Todd Tilghman and his wife Brooke on this podcast episode.  Todd was the winner of the 18th season of The Voice!  You'll love his story and testimony.

Todd Tilghman is the lead pastor of Cornerstone Church in Meridian, Mississippi, the husband of his high-school sweetheart, Brooke, and the father of eight energetic children. Singing in church since he was eight years old, Todd finally took that gift to the national stage as the first contestant in the eighteenth season of The Voice. Kicking off the season with a “four-chair turn” blind audition, Todd continually wowed the judges and audiences alike with his soulful, spirited performances that culminated in winning the eighteenth season of The Voice.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Author Laura Smith is back on the podcast this episode as Mike and Amy interview her regarding her latest book, How Sweet the Sound.  Moms, you're going to love this one and this book!

Best-selling author and speaker Laura L. Smith is a music lover. She grew up singing old hymns in her traditional church, then rushing home to count down the rest of the Top 40 on Billboard's music charts with Casey Kasem. Smith speaks around the country sharing the love of Christ with women at conferences and events. She lives in the college town of Oxford, Ohio, with her husband and four kids.

How Sweet the Sound selects 30 beloved hymns and shares the lyrics to each hymn, an interesting modern-day story of how that hymn continues to impact lives, and questions for contemplation. Discover how hymns span generations—uniting us, freeing us, comforting us, and so much more. You'll enjoy hearing the stories of how hymns have affected other people's lives as you remember how the hymns you treasure have affected yours.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Amy and Mike interview author/speaker Laura Gallier about topics facing teens and young adults today and her Delusion trilogy!

In a youth culture intrigued by the paranormal yet often skeptical of biblical claims, Laura Gallier seeks to bring awareness and understanding to issues surrounding the supernatural. Having battled her own enemies of the soul throughout her teen and young adult years, she is on a mission to expose deception with the light of truth, bringing hope and healing to a generation in need.

Laura speaks throughout the nation, often in the greater Houston area where she lives with her husband, Patrick, and their three children.

Get to know Laura better at LauraGallier.com, or connect with her online at the following social media platforms:
Instagram - laura_gallier
Twitter - lauragallier
Facebook - AuthorLauraGallier

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

An interesting podcast this week as Mike and Amy catch up with Eugene Bach and talk mission work.

Eugene Bach is a pseudonym for a member of the Chinese underground church. He was trained in US military special operations and served two tours in the Persian Gulf and Asia-Pacific region, serving primarily as a member of a rapid response team focusing on targeted threat elimination, counterterrorism, and security. He has been working with the underground church in China for more than fifteen years, helping them to establish forward mission bases in closed countries around the world, including Iraq and Syria.

Eugene leads the Chinese mission movement called Back to Jerusalem, which provides essential support for Chinese missionaries in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. He has also written or coauthored numerous books about the underground church in China, North Korea, and Iran, including ISIS: Heart of Terror, The Underground Church, and I Stand with Christ.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the podcast, go behind the scenes with podcast producer and long-time kids guy Dan Lynch!  We did into why our podcast exists, how listeners can use the information provided and the vision now and for the future of TheBibleforKids.com. It's all about empowering parents and those working with kids to help them pass along Biblical values and truths.

Dan is a partner at Brentwood Studios where they do all things kids, and he served for over 20 years in kids publishing and entertainment worlds at Tommy Nelson (VP Marketing/Branding and Executive Producer) and B&H Kids (Publisher, Executive Producer). Dan also worked as a VP of Marketing in the Christian music industry with labels including Benson and Word Records. Some of the brands Dan has managed and built include Max Lucado’s Hermie and Friends, Sheila Walsh’s Gigi God’s Little Princess, Bibleman, Read and Share Bible Stories, Big Picture Interactive Bible, Teen to Teen.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Children's ministry looks different today, during pandemic situations.  Amy and Mike catch up this week with Becky Clark, Director of Children's Ministry at Christ Community Church in Franklin TN.  

No matter if you're involved in your churches children's ministry or a parent doing all you can at home, don't miss this episode.

Becky Clark is the Director of Children’s Ministry at Christ Community Church in Franklin, TN. She has volunteered and worked in children’s ministry for over 25 years. She and her husband have three young adult children. When she’s not working, you can find Becky in the kitchen preparing healthy meals for family and friends.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

This week Amy and Mike interview one of the most energetic and "upside down" guests ever - Duncan Philips for the Newsboys.

Duncan Phillips is an Australian pop/rock drummer, percussionist, keyboardist, and composer. He is best known for his career with the Newsboys as their drummer and percussionist. Phillips' involvement with musical performance began in the 80's with a band he had in Queensland, Australia, which played for local youth groups. After moving to the U.S., Phillips joined the Newsboys in 1993 as a keyboardist. Phillip's role as a keyboardist only lasted for one album, "Going Public". After that he played as the band's main drummer and percussionist, and has remained as a part of the Newsboys ever since.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Amy and Mike interview possibly the most joyful author ever - Emma Mae Jenkins about her new book All-Caps YOU: A 30-Day Adventure toward Finding Joy in Who God Made You to Be.

Young women are under more pressure than ever before: pressure to be pretty, to be successful, to have a perfect selfie game. Is it possible for them to be their true selves? Or must they fit into the same mold as the rest of their peers? Into this world of ever-growing pressure bursts Emma Mae Jenkins with a message of hope and unabashed joy.

Emma Mae knows what it feels like to be judged and bullied, but she chooses to ignore the haters and instead focus on a message of love and acceptance in Jesus Christ. In this powerful devotional, Emma Mae will show young women what it looks like to live a life of rejoicing in God’s love and the incredible excitement they can feel when they “live in ALL CAPS” for Him.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

The Marvelous Mud House: A Story of Finding Fullness and Joy

Ben and his American family live in a hungry ranch house where they are always wanting more. But then they travel far across the world to Kenya and visit the marvelous mud house where George and Mama George live. There, among the mango trees, they discover a marvelous lesson about what it's like to be full of joy instead.

April Graney is the author of the 2017 Christian Book Award finalist The Marvelous Mud House, a whimsical true story about finding contentment and joy based on her family's trip to Kenya. She lives at New Life Ranch in Oklahoma with her husband and five children and surprisingly loves teaching math at a local Christian school for at-risk students. She has a masters degree in biblical studies from Dallas Theological Seminary and speaks passionately about God’s heart for the world to children and parents at schools, churches, summer camps and parent/child retreats. She enjoys early morning coffee, laughing quite loudly, growing tomatoes and herbs, taking naps, and attempting to be an artist. Find her online at onehappyhouse.org.

Her next book The Marvelous Maker releases in September.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

This week on the podcast, Amy and Mike interview sign, songwriter and author Ellie Holcomb about her new book Don't Forget to Remember.

In this delightful board book, Ellie Holcomb uses rhyme and beauty to remind young readers of comforting truths from God. When they see snowflakes fall, they can remember that God made each of us as one of a kind. If they hear the waves crash to shore again and again, they’ll recall that God’s love never runs out. High and low, on sad days and glad days, creation reminds us that God’s love is ever present. Ellie ends her comforting reminder with a message for hearts young and old . . . “And even on days you forget what is true, don’t forget to remember God won’t forget you.”

Singer-songwriter—and now author—Ellie Holcomb ​began her musical career touring the country with her husband in the Americana band Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors. Her honest voice and rich lyrics shined on her first solo album and deemed her the Best New Artist at the 2014 Dove Awards. In 2017, she followed with the restorative, hope-inducing Red Sea Road. Ellie, her husband, Drew, and their three children live and make music in Nashville, Tennessee.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Amy and Mike catch up with Erin Weidemann who authored the Bible Belles series and oversees Truth Becomes Her.  If you've got little girls in your family this podcast is for you!

Erin Weidemann is the founder of Truth Becomes Her, a brand that equips moms and women with resources to help them step into their unique leadership roles. A sought-after homeschool consultant, certified teacher, coach, and nationally-recognized speaker, Erin’s personal mission is to shift the conversation around feminine values from being beauty-driven, to a focus on inherent worth. An on-air personality for Air1 Radio, Erin delivers “59 Seconds of Hope” daily as well as hosts the Heroes For Her Podcast where she interviews positive female role models who are living out their passions in-line with their personal values. 

She is the author of eight books, including the best-selling Bible Belles series, The Adventures of Rooney Cruz which has sold hundreds of thousands of copies worldwide. 

Erin is a five-time cancer survivor, and lives and homeschools in San Diego, CA with her husband, Brent, and their daughter, Rooney. 

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Amy and Mike interview artist and author Amy Kavelaris about her new book Good Night My Darling Dear, Prayers and Blessings for You.

Amy Kavs (Kavelaris) Art can be found in Target, Anthropologie, Better Homes & Gardens, among others & is hanging in homes & sold on products around the globe. She has been captivated by the study of light and the way little ones interact with nature since she was old enough to hold a pencil. This fascination with every day beauty, is apparent in her breadth of paintings, blooming in a dreamlike-whimsy.

Amy grew up in nature & on the lakes, the source of much of her inspiration for her work. She graduated with a degree in Media Studies: Radio, TV, & Film from the University of Wisconsin-Madison & studied Fine Art in Florence, Italy. She lives in the Midwest, renovating their 100 year old home & cottage, with her therapist husband and their 3 small girls.

About GoodNight, My Darling Dear

Hold your little one close as you celebrate your love for one another. This exquisitely illustrated book honors the wonder of childhood, dreams of who your little one will someday become, and marvels at all that God has in store. Amy Kavelaris's signature flower-crown art and poetic writing invite you and your child to enjoy peaceful moments before bed with delightful parent-and-child animal pairs.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

This week Amy and Mike talk to author Dandi Mackall who has authored over 500 books for kids.  Specifically about her books WOW and A Child's First Bible Series.

The gospel is often called “the Good News,” and that’s because it’s the best news ever! Wow! tells the Good News using four words: Wow! Uh-Oh. Yes! and Ahh. Bright, joyful illustrations and fun-to-read rhymes walk kids through God’s whole story―and show kids that God’s story is really their story.

Incorporating words that kids use every day, the gospel will take on a more personal meaning as kids learn the good news of God’s love for them.

With over 1 million copies sold, A Child’s First Bible has taught countless children to love God’s Word. Now the series continues with Psalms for Little Hearts, God Takes Care of Me, and God is Always with Me. 

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

This week on the Podcast, Amy and Mike talk to Jana Magruder - Director of Lifeway Kids about teaching kids about the Bible and her book Nothing Less: Engaging Kids in a Lifetime of Faith.

The 10 Greatest Influencers of Spiritual Health for Your Kids
We love our kids. We want to be good parents. We want our kids to know God and grow in their relationship with Him. But trends show that our culture is increasingly secular with fewer younger generations staying in church. In fact, even the church-going faithful attend less often. Families are busy and fill their lives pursuing what is practical in their eyes and to make them happy.

In today’s culture, what can parents do to help their kids know God and continue to stay in a growing, thriving relationship with Him? LifeWay Research reveals the top 10 influencers of spiritual health to guide parents and churches to avoid negative influences and focus on what’s most important for your child.

But where do we begin? The research helps us see that we need not look further than God’s Word. Read it. Read it consistently. Read it together. Talk about it. Apply it to your life. And don’t shy away from any of it. In the words of AW Tozer, “Nothing less than the whole Bible can make a whole Christian.”

Jana Magruder is the Director of LifeWay Kids. Jana brings a wealth of experience and passion for kids ministry, education, and curriculum writing. She and her husband, Michael, along with their three children reside in Nashville, TN.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Allstars Kids Club began as ‘Allstars Records’ back in 2009 by Simon Parry (a kids pastor and kids worship writer).

Our main heart, goal and aim is to provide, produce and create the very best kids Worship, magazines and media…everWe love to see children of all ages worship God. No one is too young or small to know and  worship God, and we want to be a big part in enabling this to happen.  So, Allstars Kids Club is a UK based not-for-profit Kids Media and Worship ministry who’s aim is to highlight, provide, produce and create the best in creative Kids media that reaches children all over the world and give loads of glory to God. 

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

This week Amy and Mike interview author Laura Smith about finding your identity in Christ and how that looks to kids through teens.

Laura is the author of the False Reflections trilogy for teen girls (Skinny, Hot, and Angry), 5-Minute Devotions for Girls, and the upcoming How Sweet the Sound (August 2020)

Laura L. Smith has been searching her whole life for beauty. Not in the world--there's plenty of that--in the crimson of a cardinal's feather, in the sound of waves crashing along a shore, in the melody of a Beatles' ballad, or in a Chagall stained glass window. The world is filled with beauty, but for her that was another story. It took her years to discover her true beauty, to fully grasp she is made in the image of her Creator, and therefore, she is beautiful. The incredible thing is...so are you. You were marvelously made by God to inspire awe. No matter what the world tries to tell you, no matter what you try to tell yourself. No one can rob you of the incredible true identity God instilled in you. Smith tells stories (through books, blogs, and speaking) in hopes of helping you discover what took her so long to see: your beautiful true reflection in Christ. Smith lives in the college town of Oxford, Ohio with her husband and four kids.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

This week Amy and Mike talk with Tricia Goyer on what to do with your kids now that EVERYONE is a homeschool teacher!

Tricia Goyer writes out of her passion for God and her love for family and others. The author of more than 70 books, she writes both historical fiction and nonfiction related to family and parenting.

A homeschooling mom of ten, including seven by adoption, Tricia is also a grandmother of four and wife to John. With a busy life she understands the importance of making every word count.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

This week Amy and Mike interview Dylan Kraayenbrink with Keys to the Kids radio - a long standing online radio network for kids.

In a small closet studio in the back of Cornerstone University's radio station WCSG, His Kids Radio (then known as the Children's Sonshine Network) went on the air on October 23, 1989. It was the beginning of many years of 24-hour radio broadcast ministry to kids and families.

In October 2014 Keys for Kids Ministries took ownership of His Kids Radio, which became Keys for Kids Radio on its 25th birthday! Even with all the changes in ministries and technology, one thing is still the same: our passion for reaching kids with the Gospel of Jesus through engaging stories and songs all day, every day on a radio station just for kids.

Dylan Kraayenbrink is the program director and one of the hosts of Keys for Kids Radio.  People can listen to Keys for Kids Radio at keysforkids.net

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

This weeks episode features authors Jeff and Abbey Land talking about their new book: A Family Easter Devotional.

Amid the hustle and bustle of springtime chores and storefront bunnies, focusing your children on the true meaning of Easter can be a challenge. But this forty-day devotional brings the family together and shows them the way to the Savior instead.

As a follow-up to the successful Christmas title “The Way to the Manger,” Jeff and Abbey Land now guide families as they explore and celebrate eight aspects of Lent, the season leading up to Easter : Forgiveness, Hope, Trust, Thanksgiving, Love, Commitment, Obedience, and Jesus’ Last Days.

Filled with discussion questions, easy family activities, and prayers, this collection of devotions can become a family keepsake, bringing your family together to celebrate the Easter season and the way to the Savior year after year.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Amy and Mike interview author Jill Roman Lord about her new Easter book!

You might think of the first Easter as a quiet, peaceful morning. But with all creation celebrating the risen Lord of Lords, it may not have been so quiet! The Quiet Crazy Easter Day imagines the crazy celebration that might have occurred when Jesus arose . . . a festive day filled with chirps and croaks, shouts and coos and loop-de-doos. Join the rejoicing as we follow along with the Easter story and learn how we too can shout and sing and spread the news that Jesus is alive.

Jill Roman Lord is an author, a freelance writer, and nurse anesthetist. She enjoys running with her golden Retriever, Poppie, in Charlotte, NC, golfing with her hubby and son, sipping coffee, shopping with her girls when they're around, traveling, and hanging on the back porch with family and friends.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

This week Amy interviews Mike about the latest books in his Dead Sea Squirrels series; Treemendous Trouble and Whirley Squirrelies.

Mike Nawrocki, co-creator of VeggieTales, is back! In the first installment of this hilarious new chapter-book series, ten-year-old Michael and his friend Justin sneak into the Dead Sea caves near the archaeological dig where Michael’s dad is working. Michael finds two 2,000-year-old squirrels petrified in sea salt. Hijinks ensue as Michael tries to bring them back to the U. S., hidden in his backpack. What Michael thinks are just cool souvenirs may turn out to be something much more! The Dead Sea Squirrels series is humorous, fun, and filled with character-building lessons.

Book 1: Squirreled Away

Book 2: Boy Meets Squirrels

Book 3: Nutty Study Buddies

Book 4: Squirrel Napped

Book 5: Treemendous Trouble

Book 6: Whirley Squirrelies

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

This week's episode features Slugs & Bugs' Randall Goodgame discussing his brand new album (currently in SlugStarter mode!) Modern Kid.

Modern Kid is the first Silly Song Slugs & Bugs record in almost a decade.  It will be loved by all Slugs & Bugs fans, but also is designed to be an introduction to the ministry.  One that's easy for people to give to their friends to introduce them to Slugs & Bugs music.

From Randall Goodgame:

When I recorded Slugs & Bugs Under Where? nine years ago, my "modern kids" were still little bits, teaching me how to be a dad. They taught me to take children seriously, and take myself much less seriously, and I’m a better man for all the lessons. 

We also entered the age of smart phones together. What a minefield! Modern Kid glances at our screen-filled world, then pushes back against the isolating and anxiety-inducing impact of technology with songs about balloons and ping pong and pants.

For parents, I hope these songs help us sing out loud, dance like crazy people, and remember to be kids right along with the little sticky miracles that call us mom and dad.

For the kids, I hope this music brings you light and laughter, and freedom to be the masters of wonder that you are. I’m excited to introduce the uninitiated to Doug the Slug, Sparky the Lightning Bug and Ms Carla (from our Slugs & Bugs TV Show) and the super-cute (and endangered!) Pangolin. And among other things, I hope this record makes bed-making and dog-walking more fun for everybody. Enjoy!

Visit SlugsandBugs.com and check out Modern Kid!

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Amy and Mike spend time with singer, song-writer, author Andrew Peterson discussing his middle-reader series The Wingfeather Saga which is relaunching March 10th in hard cover editions.

https://amzn.to/2wkq4zJ

Now in hardcover for the first time, featuring all-new illustrations! Once, in a cottage above the cliffs on the Dark Sea of Darkness, there lived three children and their trusty dog, Nugget.

Janner Igiby, his brother, Tink, and their disabled sister, Leeli, are gifted children as all children are, loved well by a noble mother and ex-pirate grandfather. But they will need all their gifts and all that they love to survive the evil pursuit of the venomous Fangs of Dang, who have crossed the dark sea to rule the land with malice. The Igibys hold the secret to the lost legend and jewels of good King Wingfeather of the Shining Isle of Anniera.

Full of characters rich in heart, smarts, and courage, On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness is a tale children of all ages will cherish, families can read aloud, and readers' groups are sure to enjoy discussing for its many layers of meaning. Extra features include new interior illustrations from Joe Sutphin, funny footnotes, a map of the fantastical world, inventive appendices, and fanciful line art in the tradition of the original Frank L. Baum Wizard of Oz storybooks.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

This week is an exciting one - host Amy Parker and apologist Doug Powell have a new children's book launching on March 3rd from Tyndale Publishing called The Big Book of Bible Questions.  They'll discuss the new book and how important these questions are for kids to engaging in a true understanding of the Bible from an early age.

The Big Book of Bible Questions addresses kids’ toughest Bible questions with theologically sound answers in a way that is relatable and engaging. It’s filled with fun facts, debunking of common misconceptions, and explanations of biblical and theological concepts. With eye-catching illustrations and real-life photos, this book will not only answer a kid’s Bible questions big and small, but it will also encourage spiritual conversations and a lifelong love of learning about the glory and wonder of faith, the Bible, and God.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

This week Amy and Mike interview Scott James about his new book launching in March from B&H Kids, Where is Wisdom which delves into the life of Job.

Where can we find wisdom? Down in the deep caverns? At the bottom of the ocean floor? This visual tour through the poetry of Job 28 parallels Scripture and leads readers on a treasure hunt through the wonders of God’s creation.
 
Among all the dazzling treasures this world has to offer, we learn of an even greater treasure—wisdom—and of the mighty God who alone can lead us to it. Beautifully illustrated, Where Is Wisdom? is a unique celebration of the words and imagery of Job, one that guides young readers high and low to marvel ultimately at the true end of wisdom, Jesus Christ.

Scott James serves as an Elder at The Church at Brook Hills. He and his wife, Jaime, have 4 children and live in Birmingham, AL, where he works as a pediatric physician. He is the author of 2 family worship books (The Expected One: Anticipating All of Jesus in the Advent; Mission Accomplished: A Two-Week Family Easter Devotional), as well as illustrated children's books, including The Littlest Watchman (The Good Book Company, 2017) and Where Is Wisdom? (B&H, coming March 2020).

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

New this week - Amy and Mike continue their discussion with best-selling author Tricia Goyer.  This time, they did deeply into her book Prayers that Changed History.

One prayer can change everything, says bestselling author Tricia Goyer in Prayers That Changed History.   NOTE: Tricia will be re-releasing this title in April.  Check out TriciaGoyer.com for details.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Tune into this weeks episode to learn about Sally Clarkson's latest book, Only You Can Be You: What Makes You Different Makes You Great.

Sally Clarkson is the beloved author of multiple bestselling books, including Own Your Life, The Lifegiving Home with her daughter Sarah, Desperate with Sarah Mae, and Different with her son Nathan. As a mother of four, she has inspired thousands of women through Whole Heart Ministries (www.wholeheart.org) and Mom Heart conferences (www.momheart.org). Sally also encourages many through her blogs, podcasts, and websites. You can find her at www.sallyclarkson.com.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

On this podcast, Mike and Amy interview Jean Thomason or perhaps more widely known in church circles and with children, Miss PattyCake.

Jean Thomason has more than 35 years of experience as a musical performer, worship leader, author and conference speaker to women, parents, grandparents, teachers and children’s ministers. AND, she is the living embodiment of the
joyful children’s musical character, “Miss PattyCake.” Through this brightly costumed character, Jean plants biblical truths into little lives, while helping equip parents to lay a spiritual foundation. Her recently published book is, “Sharing God’s BIG
LOVE with Little Lives.” She and her husband have 2 grown children, and live in Franklin, TN.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

A re-post from the early days of the Podcast last fall - we have so many more listeners today, we will be posting some of the early episodes as Bonus Episodes in the coming months.  Enjoy learning about Night Night Bible Stories and Night Night Devotions from co-host Amy Parker - perfect for that time right before bed.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Join hosts Mike and Amy as they interview Yancy!  Yancy is a worship leader, producer and songwriter for kids that travels the globe doing family concerts and training worship leaders. She has a heart for the Church and a burning passion to help this generation become the worshippers God created them to be. Through her music that makes Jesus loud, she produces many worship resources for kids including the series: “Kidmin Worship” (preteen/elementary) and “Little Praise Party” (young children). Most recently she created a game-changing curriculum to help you teach kids the heart of worship called “Heartbeat”. Her life is made even more complete with her husband, Cory and sons, Sparrow and Rhythm, where they live in Nashville, TN.  Follow her on social media at @YancyNotNancy

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Amy and Mike interview Scarlet Hiltibidal about her book for tweens/teens: He Numbered the Pores on My Face.

When Scarlet Hiltibidal was a teenager, plastic butterfly clips were all the rage. She couldn’t understand why they didn’t look the same in her “frizzy, bulbous hair” as they did on the blonde whose mom was a professional hair stylist. Back then, she would have sanctioned the destruction of scores of actual butterflies just to own the label "pretty butterfly clips girl." And so it goes for many girls like Scarlet who strive for self-worth yet struggle to find it. 

He Numbered the Pores on My Face is for teens who long for beauty, love, and rest. Any labels you long for today might as well be “looks good in butterfly clips” if you are not rooted in who Jesus says you are, because any self­-centered identity is going to leave you in the same place: unfulfilled and unhappy. Girls will relate to Scarlet’s stories as she discusses hottie lists, eating disorders, and haphazard beauty in a way that is both humorous and thought provoking. Through it all, she describes how she found peace by learning to see life not through a mirror but through a Savior who shapes who we were, who we are, and who we will be. 

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

What a way to start off 2020 - Amy and Mike interview author Tricia Goyer about her book "The Grumble Free Year."   Sound impossible?  Check out this first of 2020 podcast to learn more and find some tips you can put into play with your family.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

One you may have missed from way back when we launched our podcast - listen in to this interview with Slugs & Bugs creator Randall Goodgame and learn about his music ministry for families and the all new Slugs and Bugs Show!

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

We're excited to have singer songwriter Michael W Smith in the studio this week talking about his kids brand Nuturing Steps.  In addition to a lullaby cd, Michael has just released the third book in the series, Merry Christmas Nighty Night.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

In this episode Amy and Mike interview Allison Hottinger and her sister Lisa Kalberer, creators of The Giving Manger, a new family Christmas tradition focused on giving and the true meaning of Christmas.  You can learn more about them at TheGivingManger.com.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

This week - Amy and Mike interview Art Rainer, Vice President at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. He writes widely about issues related to finance, wealth, and generosity.

The Secret Slide Money Club is a unique early-reader fiction series that uses humor and adventure to teach children the foundational principles of financial health—Give, Save, Live. This first trio of books is quick-paced, offering tons of silliness and action while showing young readers about God's way to be wise with money. 

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

On this episode, hosts Amy and Mike catch up with rising author Mike Thomas who writes the fiction series The Secret of the Hidden Scrolls. 

Mike Thomas grew up in Florida playing sports and riding his bike to the library and an arcade named the Cosmic Cowboy. He graduated from Liberty University, earning a bachelor’s degree in Bible Studies. When his son Peter was nine years old, Mike went searching for books that would teach Peter about the Bible in a fun, imaginative way. Finding none, he decided to write his own series. 

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Amy and Mike interview author Scarlet Hiltibidal about her book Afraid of All Things and growing up in the Saturday Night Live green room.  Scarlet's mom Victoria Jackson is a popular SNL alumni.  Scarlet Hiltibidal is a very professional wife and mother to her family in Middle Tennessee. She loves sign language with her daughters, nachos by herself, writing for her friends, and dreaming of being a famous chef while spilling the cheese dust from the macaroni box on the kitchen counter and using it anyway. She treasures the freedom of resting in the work of Jesus and hopes to help others rest as well.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Intrigued?   In this episode Amy interviews co-host Mike Nawrocki about his new book series the Dead Sea Squirrels.  As co-creator of VeggieTales, co-founder of Big Idea Entertainment, and the voice of the beloved Larry the Cucumber, Mike Nawrocki has been dedicated to helping parents pass on biblical values to their kids through storytelling for over two decades. Mike currently serves as Assistant Professor of Film and Animation at Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennesee, and makes his home in nearby Franklin with his wife, Lisa, and their two children.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

On this episode, Amy and Mike catch up with award-winning and best-selling author Mary Manz Simon.  Mary holds a doctorate degree in Early Childhood Education and has written titles selling more than three million copies available in ten languages.   This fall Mary has two new releases from Beaming Books, A Countdown to Christmas and The Family Time Bible.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Continuing in the discussion of Bible Stories and how they impact kids, this weeks guest, Lifeway publisher, Jennifer Lyell discusses how teaching Sunday school and her interaction with one special child led her to write the new  The Promises of God Bible Storybook.

A conversational, whimsical, biblically faithful retelling of more than fifty key Bible stories, The Promises of God Storybook Bible lets your child hear favorite stories with new ears, repeatedly assuring them that each word is proof of God’s unstoppable love and unbreakable promises to His people.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Join hosts Mike and Amy as they talk with Australian publisher Wayne McCay creator of the comic style Bible Storybook, BibleForce and the new BibleForce Devotional.  

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Bible for Kids Podcast, Mike interviews Amy about writing Bible Story books for kids and talks about her latest books, Night Night Bible Stories and Night Night Devotions.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, hosts Amy and Mike interview Randall Goodgame, founder of the popular kids music brand Slugs and Bugs. Slugs & Bugs creates music and stories full of faith and silliness for the whole family to delight in and sing for years to come.  Randall will also fill our listeners in on the brand new Slugs and Bugs TV series starting this fall.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Mike and Amy's interview with VeggieTales co-creator Phil Vischer continues in this episode where they discuss The Mr Phil Show, his new Bible Storybook and the relaunch of VeggieTales and an upcoming Christmas episode.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Hosts best-selling author Amy Parker and author and co-creator of VeggieTales Mike Nawrocki interview Phil Vischer. Phil Vischer is the co-creator of the children's video series VeggieTales and creator of the follow-up series What's in the Bible? Since the release of the first VeggieTales episode in 1993, more than 65 million units have been sold. Vischer and his wife, Lisa, live in the Chicago area with their 3 children.  Phil recently released his first Bible storybook, the Laugh and Learn Bible for Kids, available now wherever books are sold.

See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.