“Then Jesus told them this parable . . .” -Luke 15:3
Years ago, I went on a fiction fast. For half a decade (maybe longer), I took a break from reading fiction and didn’t pick up a single novel. Sounds crazy, right? Especially considering my current career path. Authors need to read. It’s part of how we study our craft and… Read More »Do You Need to Take a Break From Reading Fiction?
We spend a lot of time talking about deep topics on this blog (which is amazing, btw), but once in a while, it’s nice to take a break from the tough stuff and touch on something lighter. Like, for example, our favorite standout characters in YA novels. Who are your… Read More »Standout Characters in YA Novels: Lauren’s Picks
In my last post Pulpit or Stage? A Critical Look at the Criticism of Christian Fiction, I urged readers to lay off their criticism of faith-based fiction. YA Christian fiction books offer a great alternative for conscientious readers looking for clean entertainment that encourages faith (as long as you don’t… Read More »6 Red Flags to Watch For in YA Christian Fiction
Have you ever read a book review where a critic slammed a work of YA Christian fiction for not being “Christian enough”? “Lacks Biblical substance. Doesn’t mention Jesus even once. Fluffy entertainment.“ Let me first say that, as a Christian, it is of utmost importance to guard the integrity of your… Read More »Pulpit or Stage? A Critical Look at the Criticism of Christian Fiction
There are very few authors of whom I can say I’ve read every single one of their books. Kasie West comes close, though my enthusiasm for her books cooled a bit with some of her more recent titles. (Check out YA Fiction for Christians: An Honest Look at Kasie West… Read More »Christian Teen Fiction Spotlight: Author Cher Gatto
Does your local library or bookstore have a section dedicated to Christian fiction for teens? Or, at the very least, a viable number of Christian YA fiction titles mixed in with the mainstream selections? No? Neither does mine. In truth, it is very hard to find Christian books for teens.… Read More »Why is it So Hard to Find Christian Books For Teens?
Several years ago, I got the grand idea to write a novel, which morphed into the even grander idea of becoming an author. I knew I wanted to write for teens. There’s nothing like the thrill of seeing young people come into themselves and embrace who they were meant to… Read More »The Truth About Why I Write Christian YA Fiction
When you pick up a novel of any given genre, you have certain expectations of what you’ll find, right? If it’s fantasy, the characters must exhibit some type of mystical powers. For paranormal fiction, vampires, ghosts or werewolves are likely to be present. Sci-fi involves a lot of futuristic technology.… Read More »Christian Romance: The Lie Behind the First Kiss in Fiction