Jesus loved to tell stories and crowds gathered near as He would reach out. He painted the world around in colors some would gravitate towards while repelling others. We know Jesus didn’t allow the reactions of His listeners to change His method; He kept sharing, kept loving, kept reaching, kept pushing.
Have you ever found that as a parent or discipler, you’re not sure what story to tell to make your point? I have had those moments. I know that when the Savior walked this earth, He used stories to enlighten and confound. God gave me a deep desire to use storytelling with my children and those He has led me to shepherd. Like many of you, I have been surprised at how God teaches me even as I am teaching others. I was excited He began leading me to not only write books but to include a discussion guide in the back of my novels.
How do I teach this kid?
The crazy part? As much time as I am spending working on each discussion guide, I know that some of my readers may not look through it. My daughter admitted to me, “I usually skip that.” I get it, and you know what? That’s okay. I wrote it to be approachable and thought-provoking to younger readers. But I am actually hoping it will be read by YOU! You parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, small group leaders, Sunday school teachers, and mentors all may not have time to read the entire series of novels, but the guide can facilitate deeper conversations.
The stories I tell are part of a larger journey. I believe we are each on a journey that God has planned from the beginning of time. (see Ephesians 2) He desires that each of us come to know Him in an extraordinary way. I pray that my faith-based fairytales lead to digging past shallow answers.
Christian books for teens
My dreams for these stories go hand-in-hand with your dreams for discipleship. It’s why our hours are spent praying and studying. This is why we look to God for the best ways to love and reach beyond ourselves. It’s our way to prepare these young missionaries to go light the world with His truth.
So what kinds of questions can you expect Rapunzel to ask while she is on her journey?
Is God good? Is He trustworthy?
What is greed? Why does it destroy?
Should I forgive? Can I forgive without God’s help?
The arc of the first three books explore Rapunzel’s struggle with her need for a Savior. She becomes a young woman in a world she was unprepared to live in. The next three books will go a little deeper into how God can redeem those things we are ashamed of and make all things new. My heart is that as I am publishing, you will find these books to be both entertaining and useful. Please reach out to me if there is anything I can do for you. I look forward to serving you in the near future.
If you need a pre-taste of what’s ahead without commiting to buying the first or any of the series yet, I can relate. My gift to you is the free origin novella, Before the Tower, that introduces the young girl who chooses the wrong path and becomes the witch who will one day imprison Rapunzel. This novella sets the stage for the discussions regarding greed, forgiveness, God’s goodness, and sovereignty.
About JacQueline
As the author of The Journey series, a young adult fantasy retelling Rapunzel’s misadventures, JacQueline also wrote Memoirs of a Headcase: Held by the God of Hope, to share hope in the battle against chronic pain and depression. Currently she lives in North Alabama with her karate husband and three book-crazy kids. All opinions expressed on this website come from her own experience. Do not substitute it for professional therapy or medical advice. Any affiliate links used on this website will provide additional income to JacQueline’s family at no additional cost to you.
If you are a reader wanting to connect with JacQueline, you can get a free book here. Each month you will receive book recommendations and other booknerd fun.
Are you a writer or an author looking for help? JacQueline has been writing all her life and loves meeting others who think writing is living. As an author coach, helping other writers on their journey gives her joy. Schedule your free coaching call to learn what steps you should take next now.
