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Episode 343: Kathleen Bostrom and Celebrating Creation

Sparking Everyday Discipleship

Release Date: 07/17/2026

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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