Episode 343: Kathleen Bostrom and Celebrating Creation

Summary In this episode, Kathleen Bostrom shares her journey of writing children's books about creation, the importance of faith-based stories, and the challenges and joys of publishing. We explore how these stories can inspire children and adults alike to appreciate God's creation and our role in caring for the earth. Key Topics Kathleen Bostrom's journey of writing children's books about creation The importance of faith and stewardship in children's stories The process of illustrating and publishing children's books The impact of stories on children's understanding of God's creation Challenges faced by authors in the children's publishing industry Takeaways Stories about creation can inspire children to appreciate God's world Faith-based children's books teach stewardship and responsibility Illustration and collaboration are key in children's book publishing Supporting local bookstores and libraries helps sustain children's literature Creating diverse and inclusive characters in children's books is important Sound Bites "The joy of God's creation just spilled out of my pen" "Creation stories remind us of God's fingerprints everywhere" "Stories about creation inspire children to appreciate God's world" Chapters 00:00 Introduction and guest introduction 00:12 Kathleen Long Bostrom's background and inspiration 00:58 The journey of writing 'Lift the Flaps' board book 01:25 The joy of God's creation and storytelling in rhyme 02:22 The collaboration with illustrator Janet Samuel 03:21 The significance of stewardship in children's stories 04:18 The timing of the book release and personal milestones 06:52 The illustrations and their impact 07:35 The importance of creation stories in faith and education 08:30 The biblical foundation of creation and God's fingerprints 09:15 Diversity and inclusion in children's books 09:55 The role of creation in understanding God's nature 11:27 The emotional and spiritual impact of stories 12:54 The importance of caring for God's earth 13:43 The value of picture books for all ages 15:48 Supporting children's literature and local bookstores 16:46 The significance of reading to children from birth 17:29 The power of stories in shaping faith and values 18:35 The role of books in end-of-life moments 19:17 The evolving landscape of children's publishing industry 20:44 Balancing writing, family, and life transitions 22:46 The challenges of publishing children's books today 24:32 The importance of supporting children's books financially 25:29 The lasting impact of childhood stories 27:35 The influence of books on personal growth and faith 29:41 The future of children's literature and publishing industry