BookWorthy

Valerie Fentress
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  • Stories for Kids
  • Updated weekly

Looking for books your kids will love — and you can trust?  The award-winning BookWorthy Podcast is your weekly guide to help Christian parents cut through the noise and find books that actually matter. Each week, award-winning children's author Valerie Fentress chats with authors about stories that help kids process big feelings, grow in faith, and see God’s goodness in everyday life.  Think of it as your trusted book buddy for raising readers who love Jesus. Full Transcripts available at http://www.valeriefentress.com/blog

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

    4 days ago

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

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

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

    24 Jun

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

    Send us Fan Mail Help BookWorthy make plans and know how to serve your best by filling out the 2026 Listener survey. Click the link, answer 10 questions. I can't wait to hear what you have to say.  Full Transcripts available at http://www.valeriefentress.com/blog In this episode of Book Worthy, host Valerie interviews author E.A. Winters about her book 'Dragon's Kiss' and the broader implications of media content for young readers. They discuss the inspiration behind the Blood and Flame Saga, the importance of adventure and romance in literature, and the impact of explicit content on youth. E.A. shares her journey as a writer, her convictions regarding appropriate content, and her future projects, emphasizing the need for responsible storytelling.  Home | E. A. Winters, DragonLeaf Press Join BookWorthy's Summer Reading Challenge   Takeaways  Dragon's Kiss is the first book in the Blood and Flame Saga. E.A. Winters draws inspiration from 'what if' scenarios. The author aims to create content that is enjoyable for both boys and girls. There is a growing concern about explicit content in young adult literature. E.A. Winters has a background as a licensed professional counselor. The impact of media on youth is a significant theme in the conversation. The importance of appropriate content for young readers is emphasized. E.A. Winters' writing journey began with a poetic line that inspired her. The author discusses the normalization of explicit content in society. E.A. Winters is working on a new series called Monster Makers.   Chapters  00:00 Introduction to Dragon's Kiss and Author's Journey 02:38 Inspiration Behind the Blood and Flame Saga 05:31 The Role of Adventure and Romance in Writing 08:19 The Impact of Media on Youth and Society 11:02 Exploring Themes of Truth and Lies in Literature 13:56 The Importance of Appropriate Content for Young Readers 16:36 E.A. Winters' Writing Journey and Future Projects Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! Follow for more: FB: @bookworthypodcast Instagram: @bookworthy_podcast YouTube:  BookWorthy Podcast - YouTube tiktok: @valeriefentress

    24 min
  3. Helping Little Ones See God’s Big, Beautiful World with Tori Higa

    17 Jun

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

    Send us Fan Mail Help BookWorthy make plans and know how to serve your best by filling out the 2026 Listener survey. Click the link, answer 10 questions. I can't wait to hear what you have to say.  Full Transcripts available at http://www.valeriefentress.com/blog Exploring God's Creation and Children's Literature with Tori Higa, Discover how children's books can beautifully showcase God's vast creation and love. Join us as we chat with author and illustrator Tori Higa, delving into her creative process, faith-inspired storytelling, and her journey from art to authorship. Key Topics:   The inspiration behind God Must Love and its message for ages zero to threeTori's unique experience illustrating her own children's bookThe importance of nature and God's creation as a reflection of His characterBalancing writing and illustrating skills in children's publishingThe long journey from concept to published book and favorite parts of the processInfluences from art legends like Ezra Jack Keats and Van GoghTori's favorite books, including A Tale of Two Seasons by her dad and The Jesus Storybook BibleUpcoming projects: indie faith-based book and launching a greeting card company Resources: Tori Higa's Website, Instagram, Facebook  Connect with Tori Higa:  Instagram  Facebook   Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction to Tori Higa01:12 - Illustrating Her Own Book02:03 - Balancing Skills in Publishing03:13 - Message for Young Children05:40 - Takeaways for Children06:32 - Observing God's Creation06:46 - Aspiring Author Journey08:28 - Art to Writing Transition09:12 - Publishing Process Insights10:20 - Visual vs. Word-Driven Writing11:23 - Artistic Influences12:25 - Favorite Books15:20 - Upcoming Projects16:28 - Connecting with Tori Online Tori Higa's Website  Instagram: @torahigacreates  Facebook: @torahigacreates  Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! Follow for more: FB: @bookworthypodcast Instagram: @bookworthy_podcast YouTube:  BookWorthy Podcast - YouTube tiktok: @valeriefentress

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

    10 Jun

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

    Send us Fan Mail Help BookWorthy make plans and know how to serve your best by filling out the 2026 Listener survey. Click the link, answer 10 questions. I can't wait to hear what you have to say.  Full Transcripts available at http://www.valeriefentress.com/blog In this episode of Book Worthy, Valerie interviews Yvonne M Morgan, an award-winning author known for her children's book 'Mary the Missionary.' They discuss the inspiration behind the book, which aims to teach children about compassion, cultural understanding, and faith through the adventures of a young girl named Mary in Kenya. Yvonne shares her experiences in mission work, the joy found in different cultures, and the importance of teaching children about the world around them. The conversation also touches on Yvonne's journey to becoming an author, her favorite books, and her future writing projects.  Yvonne's Author Page  Join BookWorthy's Summer Reading Challenge Here Takeaways Yvonne's first memorable book was 'The Ballerina.' Her mission work inspired her to write children's books. 'Mary the Missionary' explores themes of compassion and cultural understanding. Children can learn about joy despite poverty through stories. Traveling helps us understand different cultures better. Yvonne's journey to becoming an author was unexpected. Mary's adventures teach kids about overcoming challenges. Books can communicate deep messages to children. Yvonne plans to write more books featuring Mary. Exploring differences can enrich our lives.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Yvonne M Morgan and Her Work 01:59 Inspiration Behind 'Mary the Missionary' 03:36 Cultural Insights from Kenya 05:33 Mary's Adventures and Challenges 07:32 Lessons on Faith and Understanding 09:19 Yvonne's Journey to Becoming an Author 11:11 Unique Travel Experiences and Insights 12:56 Favorite Books and Their Impact 14:34 Future Projects and Aspirations Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! Follow for more: FB: @bookworthypodcast Instagram: @bookworthy_podcast YouTube:  BookWorthy Podcast - YouTube tiktok: @valeriefentress

    19 min
  5. Exploring 'Smoke and Mirrors' with Jeff Maxim

    3 Jun

    Exploring 'Smoke and Mirrors' with Jeff Maxim

    Send us Fan Mail Help BookWorthy make plans and know how to serve your best by filling out the 2026 Listener survey. Click the link, answer 10 questions. I can't wait to hear what you have to say.  Full Transcripts available at http://www.valeriefentress.com/blog In this episode of Bookworthy, host Valerie interviews Jeff Maxam, author of the award-winning middle-grade fantasy, 'Smoke and Mirrors,' . They discuss the book's themes, including handling life's trials, the role of dragons, and the influence of C.S. Lewis. Jeff shares his writing journey and the impact of the Realm Makers Aurora Contest on his career. Author Bio – Jeff Maxim Join the BookWorthy Summer Reading Challenge Here Takeaways Handling life's trials is a central theme.Dragons play a significant role in the story.The book is set in a world similar to ours but different.Jeff's middle school experience inspired the story.The Realm Makers Aurora Contest was pivotal for Jeff.Fantasy and religion can coexist in storytelling.Jeff aims to communicate powerful truths through stories.C.S. Lewis's work greatly influenced Jeff.Jeff's writing journey began with storytelling to his kids.A sequel to 'Smoke and Mirrors' is in the works.Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction to Jeff Maxam00:03:00 The Story Behind 'Smoke and Mirrors'00:09:00 Dragons and Their Significance00:15:00 Jeff's Writing Journey00:21:00 Impact of Realm Makers Aurora Contest00:27:00 Fantasy and Faith in Storytelling00:33:00 Future Projects and Closing Remarks  Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! Follow for more: FB: @bookworthypodcast Instagram: @bookworthy_podcast YouTube:  BookWorthy Podcast - YouTube tiktok: @valeriefentress

    18 min
  6. Finding Harmony and Friendship with Allia Zobel Nolan

    27 May

    Finding Harmony and Friendship with Allia Zobel Nolan

    Send us Fan Mail Help BookWorthy make plans and know how to serve your best by filling out the 2026 Listener survey. Click the link, answer 10 questions. I can't wait to hear what you have to say.  Full Transcripts available at http://www.valeriefentress.com/blog In this episode of Bookworthy, children's author Allia Zobel Nolan discusses her latest picture book, 'Finding Harmony,' which explores themes of peace, friendship, and teamwork through the story of a kitten. The conversation delves into the importance of interactive storytelling, the role of prayer in children's lives, and the significance of reading and writing in personal development. Allia shares her insights on engaging children with literature and her future writing projects, emphasizing the need for hope and connection in today's world.  Home - Allia Writes  Join the BookWorthy Summer Reading Challenge Here Takeaways  Allia Zobel Nolan is passionate about children's literature and her cats. The book 'Finding Harmony' teaches children about peace through a relatable story. Interactive elements in children's books can enhance engagement and learning. Teamwork and collaboration are essential themes in Allia's writing. Prayer is presented as a valuable tool for children in various situations. Reading is crucial for personal growth and understanding the world. Allia values reader feedback, especially from children who enjoy her books. Future projects include a devotional aimed at reconnecting with God. Allia's writing process involves thinking from a child's perspective. Humor and relatability are key components in Allia's storytelling.   Chapters  00:00 Introduction to Finding Harmony 02:17 The Journey of Writing Finding Harmony 05:59 Interactive Elements in Children's Books 10:04 Key Messages for Children 17:16 The Importance of Prayer and Patience 19:53 Impactful Books and Writing Journey 23:31 Future Projects and Themes  Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! Follow for more: FB: @bookworthypodcast Instagram: @bookworthy_podcast YouTube:  BookWorthy Podcast - YouTube tiktok: @valeriefentress

    27 min
  7. Growing Up in Faith with Penny Reeve

    20 May

    Growing Up in Faith with Penny Reeve

    Send us Fan Mail Help BookWorthy make plans and know how to serve your best by filling out the 2026 Listener survey. Click the link, answer 10 questions. I can't wait to hear what you have to say.  Full Transcripts available at http://www.valeriefentress.com/blog In this episode of Bookworthy, Valerie interviews award-winning author Penny Reeve, who shares her journey as a children's author and the inspiration behind her Tanya Abbey series. They discuss the themes of faith, generosity, and the importance of role models in children's literature. Penny elaborates on her latest book, Camp Max, and how it addresses complex issues in a way that resonates with young readers. The conversation also touches on Penny's writing journey, her favorite books, and her upcoming projects.  PENNY REEVE - home Join the BookWorthy Summer Reading Challenge    Takeaways Penny Reeve emphasizes the importance of exploring faith in children's literature. The Tanya Abbey series addresses real-world issues through the lens of a child's perspective. Generosity can come with a cost, a theme explored in Camp Max. Fiction can provide role models for children, helping them navigate their faith and actions. Penny's writing is inspired by her own experiences and the need for relatable characters. The impact of a single reader can motivate an author to continue writing. Penny believes in the power of storytelling to influence young minds positively. Her favorite books often tackle complex themes and encourage critical thinking. Penny's journey as an author began with a desire to create better stories for children. Upcoming projects include a literature unit for homeschoolers and a picture book addressing modern issues. Chapters  00:00 Introduction to Penny Reeve and Her Journey 02:35 Exploring the Tanya Abbey Series 07:50 Themes of Generosity and Faith in Camp Max 10:23 The Impact of Fiction on Young Readers 12:38 Penny's Writing Journey and Inspirations 16:30 Favorite Books and Their Influence 19:10 Upcoming Projects and Future Works   Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! Follow for more: FB: @bookworthypodcast Instagram: @bookworthy_podcast YouTube:  BookWorthy Podcast - YouTube tiktok: @valeriefentress

    22 min
  8. Devoted Heroes of Faith with Joshua Cooley

    13 May

    Devoted Heroes of Faith with Joshua Cooley

    Send us Fan Mail Help BookWorthy make plans and know how to serve your best by filling out the 2026 Listener survey. Click the link, answer 10 questions. I can't wait to hear what you have to say.  Full Transcripts available at http://www.valeriefentress.com/blog In this episode of Book Worthy, Valerie interviews author Joshua Cooley about his latest book, Heroes of the Bible Devotional, Volume 2. They discuss the importance of lesser-known biblical characters, the role of humor in engaging children, and the empowering message of faith for kids. Joshua shares his journey from journalism to writing children's books and emphasizes the significance of every character in the Bible, encouraging kids to see themselves as heroes of faith. Joshua Cooley | Josh Cooley Join BookWorthy's Summer Reading Challenge Takeaways The new devotional contains 90 devotions for kids aged 8 to 12. The book explores lesser-known biblical characters to show their importance. Humor is a key element in making biblical stories engaging for kids. Every character in the Bible has significance in God's story. Kids can relate to everyday characters rather than just prominent figures. The goal is to empower kids to see themselves as heroes for God. Joshua's background in journalism influences his writing style. The importance of explaining complex theology in simple terms for children. The series aims to remind kids that God sees their small actions as significant. Future projects include an outer space-themed devotional and adult devotionals.    Chapters  00:00 Introduction to Heroes of the Bible Devotional 02:10 Exploring Lesser-Known Biblical Characters 06:05 The Importance of Every Character in God's Story 08:50 Incorporating Humor in Devotions for Kids 10:41 Empowering Kids Through Biblical Heroes 14:08 The Journey from Journalism to Children's Author 21:37 Future Projects and Upcoming Books   Listener Survey invitation Let's discover great books together! Follow for more: FB: @bookworthypodcast Instagram: @bookworthy_podcast YouTube:  BookWorthy Podcast - YouTube tiktok: @valeriefentress

    21 min
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About

Looking for books your kids will love — and you can trust?  The award-winning BookWorthy Podcast is your weekly guide to help Christian parents cut through the noise and find books that actually matter. Each week, award-winning children's author Valerie Fentress chats with authors about stories that help kids process big feelings, grow in faith, and see God’s goodness in everyday life.  Think of it as your trusted book buddy for raising readers who love Jesus. Full Transcripts available at http://www.valeriefentress.com/blog

Information

  • Creator
    Valerie Fentress
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    143
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 BookWorthy
  • Show Website
    BookWorthy