Interview with Children's Book Author Lee Ann Mancini

We're welcoming children's author Lee Ann Mancini to the DIY Mom Blog today. Lee Ann is the award-winning author of several faith-based kids books. She's currently on the virtual road with My Book Tour. Welcome, Lee Ann! 

In your own words, please tell us about your book:

The story starts on a lovely Easter day at Sunday school! God’s Easter Miracles highlights God’s love and provision to His children. The lessons learned are not only about Jesus’s resurrection, but also awareness of treating children with Autism with love and respect, taking care of God’s creations, and most importantly, accepting Jesus Christ as your savior.

Have you always known you wanted to be a writer?

No, this was an acquired desire later in my adult life. I saw the need for children’s material that taught children how to have a strong relationship with Jesus, not just hearing stories about Him. My writing path began when I started writing these stories for my children.

Do you remember the first thing you ever wrote?

I’ve been a volunteer most of my adult life and wrote several little articles for various volunteer associations. However, the first published book was Fast Freddy, which I wrote 20 years ago, when my children were little.

Where do your story ideas come from?

When my children were little, I observed different situations and conflicts among them and their friends, which motivated me to write stories that address these issues in a loving, compassionate way, according to connecting them with our Lord and Savior.

What do you think makes a good story?

For Christian children’s stories, it’s establishing characters the children can relate to that help to capture their imagination and touch their hearts in a loving way. Also, making the stories fun and endearing. They really like finding the hidden symbols that we placed upon each page.

What kinds of things do you like to do when you’re not writing?

I enjoy reading and walking. Also, preparing for my classes that I teach at South Florida Bible College and Theological Seminary in addition to volunteering at different venues and spending time with my lovely family!

Who would you say has been a major influence in your life?

 First of all, my mother, who taught me Godly morals at an early age. Also, Dr. Warren Gage, who has been a mentor in my Biblical studies and a source of guidance in my personal life as well. Both are examples of the Gospel.

What types of books do you like to read?

I love to read books that inspire, encourage and are uplifting. In addition to any books that educate me in the word of God.  

What would readers be surprised to know about you?

 I received my BA in Religious Studies, and my two Master’s in my 50’s!

What are you currently working on?

Our seventh book in our series, God’s Creation, deals with teaching children to be good stewards regarding God’s wonderful ocean creatures. Again, they are faced with a dilemma, but relying on Jesus and His guidance, they learn how to be loving and caring for not only God’s creatures, but also their friends and family. 

How can readers connect with you?

Readers can go to my website, GLMPublishing.net, our Facebook page is Adventures of the Sea Kids, and our Twitter is @GLMPublishing.

What advice would you give aspiring authors?

I wrote these stories 20 years ago, with hopes of publishing them one day. After receiving rejection upon rejection, it wasn’t until the Holy Spirit prompted me many years after, to bring these stories out and work diligently to get them published. It was all God’s perfect timing. So, never give up, if it’s God’s will, it will be done!

God's Easter Miracles by Lee Ann Mancini - Character Interview with Jimmy and Giveaway

DIY Mom is participating in the My Book Tour virtual book tour for God's Easter Miracles by Lee Ann Mancini. Lee Ann's interview with one of the book's main characters, Jimmy, is an adorable way to show the true essence of this uplifting and inspirational book! You can read the DIY Mom book review here. 

• Publisher: GLM PUBLISHING (February 1, 2017)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0997332514
• ISBN-13: 978-0997332513 

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Paul, Jimmy, Brian and the whole town witness God's Easter miracles in this unique story. God’s Easter Miracles highlights God’s love and provision to His children. The lessons learned are not only about Jesus’s resurrection, but also awareness of treating children with Autism with love and respect, and taking care of God’s creations.

As in previous books, God’s Easter Miracles establishes characters that children can relate to, while capturing their imagination and touching their hearts in a loving way. Written in a fun and endearing way, God’s Easter Miracles also provides interactive entertainment by including hidden symbols for children to locate throughout the book.

PURCHASE GOD'S EASTER MIRACLES ON AMAZON.COM

ABOUT LEE ANN MANCINI

Lee Ann Mancini’s desire is for children to begin to know and love Jesus from an early age. This passion led her to seek out books for her own children that portrayed an active relationship with Jesus in a relatable way. She knew communicating God’s truth through captivating words and compelling illustrations is a crucial part of establishing that foundation.

An adjunct professor at South Florida Bible College and Theological Seminary, Mancini holds a master’s degree in Christian studies from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School as well as Knox Theological Seminary. She holds a board position with the Florida Authors and Publishers Association and the Alexandrian Forum and maintains memberships with organizations such as the Christian Small Publishers Association and the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association.

Mancini is an active member in her local community, visiting schools to share the Adventures of the Sea Kids series with children, as well as speaking to women’s groups about the redemptive power of the Gospel represented through the types of brides of the church. Learn more about Mancini and the Adventures of the Sea Kids at glmpublishing.net.

God’s Easter Miracles Character Interview with Jimmy

Background: In God’s Easter Miracles, Jimmy’s character accepts Christ in his heart.

Q: I understand you have accepted Christ in your heart! How wonderful! What did you think of Jesus before you accepted him into your heart?

A: I knew Jesus was special because my mommy and daddy prayed to him. And every Sunday we went to his house and it’s called a Church. But, I really didn’t know Jesus. But He gave me a new heart!!

Q: How did Jesus give you a new heart?

A: Well, I went to Sunday school, and Miss Linda hid some Easter Eggs. I found the two special eggs!! So I got two prizes. Paul wanted one, and Miss Linda asked me to share. I didn’t think it was fair that I had to share with Paul when I found them not him! Miss Linda said it wasn’t fair that Jesus died for my sins. I went home and I felt bad. I didn’t know Jesus did that! So I asked Jesus to help me to be a good boy and be like him. The next morning, I woke up and I felt happy to give one of my eggs to Paul. It made me feel good to share it with him. Jesus changed my heart. He made it nicer! And because I believe in Jesus, I will live in heaven, forever! Mommy said heaven is so beautiful and her and daddy will be there too!

Q: Do you pray to him now that you believe in him?

A: Well, at night, I used to pray to him, but I didn’t really feel anything. But NOW when I pray to Him I feel He is listening to me and I love Him.

Q: Why do you love him?

A: Because he loves me, silly!

Q: Do you tell other kids about Him?

A: I told my baby brother and my friend, Bobby, who lives next door. I told them that Jesus was a real man who is God. They didn’t know, so they were surprised. I like surprising people, it’s fun!

Q: How did Paul feel when you gave him your egg?

A: He was SO happy! He was crying before when he didn’t get one. You know what He did?

Q: What did Paul do?

A: He gave his egg to Lenny who was in the hospital. Lenny was hurt. I prayed to Jesus for Lenny to get better. You know what happened then?

Q: What happened then?

A: Jesus gave Lenny a miracle! He was all better and could go home. Jesus gave me a miracle of a new heart and Lenny a miracle of being all better!

Q: Did you have a fun Easter?

A: It was the best Easter of all! I got lots of candy in my eggs and a chocolate Easter bunny, but the best gift was getting a new best friend. You want to know his name?

Q: What is his name?

A: Jesus, silly! 

ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

a Rafflecopter giveaway

An Excellent Easter Gift - God's Easter Miracles by Lee Ann Mancini

DIY Mom is participating in the God's Easter Miracles book tour here. In celebration of the book release and tour, we've reviewed the book here too!

God’s Easter Miracles takes place on Easter Sunday. The sea kids are at Sunday school and are having fun making Easter-themed crafts. Miss Linda, the Sunday school teacher, organizes an Easter egg hunt for the children. Paul has a difficult time understanding the process and feelings get hurt. Miss Linda takes the opportunity to teach the children about sharing, friendship and the true meaning of Easter.

This is the second book I’ve read by Lee Ann Mancini and I was just as impressed with God’s Easter Miracles as I was with God’s Gift. The story is kid-friendly, with gorgeous and expressive illustrations. Ms. Mancini explains some unique and complex subjects in terms that children will understand.

The book is a sturdy book, in a generous size. This would make an excellent gift. As a care provider, mother and grandmother I’m sure God’s Easter Miracles will be a much-loved addition to the family library. Thanks to the publisher and BookCrash for providing me with a complimentary copy!

5 of 5 Stars, Review by Susan Barton

ENTER TO WIN A FREE SIGNED PRINT COPY OF GOD'S EASTER MIRACLES HERE!

When God Made You by Matthew Paul Turner Book Review

When God Made You by Matthew Paul Turner will be available for purchase on February 28! 

When God Made You is an inspirational book, designed to assure young children that they are indeed unique in his or her own way in God’s eyes.

The first thing that caught my attention about this book, and the reason why I wanted to read and review it in the first place, was the colorful, whimsical front cover. I LOVED that the cover illustration depicted an African-American girl – something we don’t see often in Christian-based books for kids.

Using simple rhyming verse, When God Made You lets children know just how special he or she is to God. There are very few (minor) challenging words, but this provides the perfect opportunity for adults to discuss the book further. I’m a great believer that books aren’t simply to be “read” to children – they’re excellent opportunities to have meaningful dialogue with children.

The author again interjects diversity with “Out of billions of faces from cultures, all races, people God made, from all different places, God knew your name.” This is an AWESOME message for children AND adults.

The illustrations are quirky, colorful and highly expressive.  The entire book is positive and encouraging. What more could you want from a children’s book? As an early childhood educator, mother, grandmother and caregiver I can highly recommend this book! Thanks to the publisher for providing a complimentary ARC of this book!

5 of 5 Stars, Review by Susan Barton

Made for a Purpose by Kristie Wilde Teaches Kids About God's Purpose for Everyone

Made for a Purpose is a sweet and short book that teaches children facts about several different animals and why God made them the way He did. Frogs, turtles, ducks and more are all illustrated and discussed in a way that even very small children will understand.

I enjoyed this cute and quick book. The illustrations are lovely and remind me of soft watercolors. The vocabulary is simple and age appropriate. It combines some interesting facts about animals with a positive Christian message for children. I read this book to a group of three, four and five-year-old children and they thoroughly enjoyed it. Recommended! Thanks to Book Crash for providing a complimentary copy.

5 of 5 Stars, Review by Susan Barton

I Can Learn to Pray by Holly Hawkins Shivers is an Excellent 52-Week Devotional for Children and Their Families

I Can Learn to Pray is designed and written as a 52-week guide for children and their families to strengthen their relationship with God through prayer. The book is divided into seven comprehensive sections, with individual weeks within.

There’s a lovely foreword at the beginning of the book, written by the author’s father, author O.S. Hawkins. Ms. Shivers begins by chatting conversationally with parents to reinforce the importance of praying with our children. From there we go into the process of actually learning to pray.

There’s a wealth of valuable information packed into to this beautiful book. The author is gifted with the ability to explain prayer in terms that even the smallest child can relate to. Yet, she never talks down to her readers. She explains prayer in a variety of kid-friendly ways and uses examples to make her point beautifully. For example, what child doesn’t understand the different ways of communicating – texting, phone calls, sign language, walkie-talkies, etc.? The author uses this concept to explain that prayer is communicating with God.

The accompanying illustrations are adorable and colorful, and are actual prayers in themselves. The book is sturdy and I love that the pages are of excellent, glossy quality. This ensures that I Can Learn to Pray will last a long time. I also appreciate the “To_____ From____” page at the beginning of the book. Perfect for gift giving!

I would highly recommend I Can Learn to Pray to parents, grandparents and others. It would make a wonderful gift for Baptism, First Holy Communion, birthday or just because. At not even $15 it's well worth the money spent! Beautiful!

5 of 5 Stars, Review by Susan Barton

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. 

Snuggle Time Prayers by Glenys Nellist is a Sweet and Sturdy Board Book To Teach Even Very Young Children About Prayer

Snuggle Time Prayers is a sturdy mid-sized board book for little ones. Each page has a lovely inspirational poem with accompanying illustrations that are generously sized, detailed and colorful. There are fifteen poems in all and each is based on Bible scripture.

I absolutely love children’s books that reinforce the idea that each of us has the ability to form a close connection with God by simply talking to Him. Bringing up children to recognize that God hears and listens to us when we speak to Him is so important, as it builds a firm foundation for a lifelong relationship with Him. Snuggle Time Prayers supports this concept. Although board books are usually geared towards younger children, this book will remain a useful tool as children grow older, since it can easily be used to expand upon scripture.

The only thing I would have liked to see was a signature (This Book Belongs To) page at the beginning of the book for gift-giving purposes. Even so, Snuggle Time Prayers would make an excellent baby shower or baptism gift for new parents. I would be happy to give this to one of my grandchildren. This is a book that should be well-loved for many years to come.

5 of 5 Stars, Review by Susan Barton

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.


 

What Life Lessons Can We Learn from A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens?

A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens has always been one of my favorite stories of all time. Who wouldn’t like to be comforted by the notion that anyone can change at any point in their life? Even a grumpy curmudgeon like Ebenezer Scrooge is capable of seeing the error of his ways and of making a miraculous transition with the assistance of four sage and caring spirits.

Bob Welch has taken the basis of A Christmas Carol to insightfully list 52 inspirational lessons readers can learn from this charming classic. There’s something for everyone in the pages of this book. Regardless of what you might be struggling with in your life at any given moment, I’m certain just about anyone will find value in Mr. Welch’s “lessons”.

52 Little Lessons from A Christmas Carol is most definitely a faith-based book. The author refers to Biblical scripture throughout, when laying out his lessons. Therefore, I would consider this book a Christian devotional, suitable for anyone looking to get closer to God, and to live a happier and more Christian-based life. It would make for wonderful church group literature, to be used by adults and children. Families should appreciate reading this together during the Christmas season or at anytime throughout the year. Highly recommended!

5 of 5 Stars, Review by Susan Barton

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Book Review of Semi Serious by Charlotte Stone

Charlotte Stone had been a teacher for almost two decades when she decided to make a sudden and dramatic career change. After a casual conversation with her truck driver son-in-law, Charlotte spontaneously decided to go into the trucking business as well. After enrolling in training school and getting hired on by a company, Charlotte found that her new life provided a great deal of quiet time – time that she used to reflect on life, and to get closer to God and her faith. In Semi Serious, Ms. Stone talks about just some of what she learned while out on the road.

Semi Serious is a short book, yet it’s packed with a variety of uplifting, engaging and encouraging content. The author tells of her life on the road in a practical and easygoing style, which I enjoyed. She adds a great deal of interesting information about what it’s like to be a female long-haul trucker in a male-dominated industry. Ms. Stone also adds some lovely poetry, photos, scripture and devotionals. But at the heart of this book is the importance of finding and keeping one’s faith, regardless of the roadblocks that might be put in front of us.

It’s clear that Charlotte Stone is a devout woman of faith. However, I didn’t find Semi Serious to be preachy or overly “religious” at all. Ms. Stone reminds us of the importance of keeping our hearts and minds open to God daily, no matter how challenging and unexpected things may seem at the time. It’s all part of His individual plan for us.

Some of the stories included in this book touched my heart and spoke to me and for that, I’m grateful that I had the opportunity to read it. Semi Serious is a beautiful testimony of one woman’s strong faith and personal walk with Jesus, but with a definite unique twist to be sure. I highly recommend it!

5 of 5 Stars, Review by Susan Barton