Episode 12 - Look for the Golden Moments in Life with Carol Stratton

Date: December 5, 2023 Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Carol Stratton   Story Highlights: Welcome to another episode of The Women Behind the Words. Today, we have a special treat for our listeners as we delve into the enchanting world of children's literature with an inspiring Christmas story that goes beyond the holiday and into everyday life. Join us as we explore "The Little Bell Ringer," written by the gifted fiction author, Carol Stratton. This heartwarming tale not only captures the significance of the season but also addresses the important themes of bullying, friendship, and finding joy in unexpected places. The Little Bell Ringer is a poignant children's Christmas story that invites readers to reflect on the challenges of bullying in school, the significance of friendship, and the beauty of finding golden moments in life. Carol Stratton skillfully weaves a narrative that goes beyond the surface of holiday cheer, touching on valuable life lessons that resonate with both kids and parents alike.     Key Themes: 1. Bullying in School: • Carol addresses the difficult reality of bullying in schools, providing a relatable backdrop for readers to empathize with. The story unfolds the struggles of a new child in school who faces the challenges of being bullied due to her stuttering. 2. Importance of Friendship: • The narrative emphasizes the crucial role of friendship, portraying how a simple act of kindness can transform the life of a child grappling with bullying. Carol encourages readers to be compassionate and understanding towards those who may be going through tough times. 3. Unexpected Bonds: • A unique aspect of searching for golden moments is the exploration of how sometimes, those who may initially seem like adversaries can turn out to be the very individuals we need to help navigate through difficult times. The story unfolds a touching journey of Cassie being put in difficult situations, having to help her tormenter at school.     Takeaways for Kids and Parents: • Empathy and Compassion: The story serves as a conversation starter for parents and children, fostering empathy and compassion towards those experiencing bullying, and those who are the bullies. • Value of Friendship: The Little Bell Ringer underscores the importance of cultivating meaningful friendships and the positive impact they can have on one's life. • Optimism in Adversity: Through the characters in the story, Carol encourages a mindset of optimism, reminding readers that even in challenging times, there are golden moments waiting to be discovered.     Conclusion: The Little Bell Ringer, by Carol Stratton is more than just a Christmas tale; it's a beautifully crafted narrative that tackles important issues while spreading the spirit of hope and joy. Join us as we explore this real-to-life story and discover the golden moments that await both young and adult hearts alike. Stay tuned for our insightful conversation with the author herself, Carol Stratton, as she shares her inspiration and the profound messages, she hopes readers will take away from this delightful Christmas story.   Bio: A novelist, reporter, speaker, and an AWSA Certified Writing and Speaking Coach, Carol has penned 500 articles, and four books: • Changing Zip Codes, • Lake Surrender, the award-winning debut novel (Inspired by her work with autistic students) • The Littlest Bell Ringer • Deep End of the Lake, the sequel to Lake Surrender   She is currently finishing up the final book in the Lake Surrender Series. If you love stories of single moms with special needs children, and second chance novels set in a lake setting, you’ll love this series. An avid gardener and baker she also speaks to women’s groups such as MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers). Married to her literary muse, John, they have four children and nine grandchildren and reside in Clemmons, North Carolina. Carol loves to encourage new writers who are discouraged as writing is a challenging, albeit exciting vocation. Life is to be celebrated with stories that reflect God’s goodness.   Book Spotlight:  Cassie Sanders has a lot to adjust to: a father who is in rehab across the country after his legs were blown off in Afghanistan and a new move with her mother to New Netherlands, Michigan from North Carolina. And being a stutterer doesn’t help as a new kid in school. Luckily, she finds a special friend who helps her navigate 5th grade. And when she decides to be a Red Kettle Bell Ringer, that decision makes life more difficult but also opens a door that will change her life.   Connect with Carol:  Carolgstratton.com. (website) Twitter: @carolgstratton FaceBook: Carol Grace Stratton Instagram: Carol.Stratton.73