Being a fan of C.S. Lewis's work, I was excited with the opportunity to review this new and unique journal. I was expecting it to be like every other journal where it was a fill in the blank type journal but was pleasantly surprised. It is very well written, and has more in depth questions which encourage you to think and analyze your opinions of the book Mere Christianity.
As the author says, it would be great for homeschool co-ops, small groups and youth groups. I feel it will help tremendously with understanding and discussing the book.
I plan on having my son also read the book and work through this journal in the coming year. There is so much to learn and share about everything you read. You can order the journal for yourself HERE.
I am blessed to have this chance to share with you an interview with the author. I hope you enjoy!
1. When planning a new book, how do you go about planning for it? Do you have a method you use, or is each one different?
Proverbs 16:9 declares: “In his heart, a man makes his plans, but the Lord determines his steps.” If you had asked me this question 20 years ago, I would have told you how I outlined and scheduled and planned. I’m a planner by nature. However, I have learned the hard way that “unless the Lord builds the house, the workers labor in vain” (Psalm 127:1).
Each book I have written for Home School Adventure Co. has a unique story behind it—and not one would have been completed without the support of many faithful prayer warriors.
2. Do you have a certain writing space, somewhere you go *just* to write your books? An office, a lake cabin, a hotel? What do you love about that space? How does it inspire you?
Writing resources for Home School Adventure Co. has pretty much demanded everything I can give to it (and more!). So, wherever I go, my writing goes with me.
I am especially grateful to my sons for helping me lug around the backpack and bags that contain my laptop and research materials.
3. What would you say to a young person who aspires to be a writer? What advice would you give? Also, what would you tell his/her parents in order to help them be supportive in their child's efforts to pursue writing as a career?
Writing is hard work. Sometimes inspiration hits and the words simply flow. However, the writer who consistently writes can ultimately surpass a more talented writer who waits for the Muse before picking up his or her pen (or keyboard).
Think of eternity, always. Imagine that moment when you will stand before God and give an account for what you have done with the talents He entrusted to you. Let that guide all your decisions.
Parents, encourage your students to write every day. Then take the time to read and comment on what they write. Even if you do not consider yourself a writer, surely you consider yourself a reader. What is clear? What is confusing? Applaud their efforts and tell them the truth.
4. Would your advice be any different (from question #3) for an adult who would like to break into the business? How?
Pray. Listen. Obey.
“Count the cost.”
Luke 14:28 tells us to consider the price we must pay before undertaking a work, but there is also a cost associated with not undertaking a work to which He calls us.
That said, as parents and family members, we would be wise to maintain a measure of balance. Remember Solomon’s words: “The writing of many books is endless” (Ecc. 12:12). Books will pass away; people are eternal.
Do not allow your writing to interfere with your loving.
5. What is your goal with writing? Is it the same with every book?
My goal for every book is the same as my goal for life. I pray that all my efforts help people more fully know and love Jesus.
6. What other projects will you be working on in the near future?
In 2014, we hope to release a print edition of Philippians in 28 Weeks – King James Version.
7. What is one lesson you learned from writing this book?
Simple truth packs a punch.
In Mere Christianity, C. S. Lewis tackles some hefty questions. Yet, upon pondering his answers, I realized that much of what he says distills down to common sense.
(Voltaire would argue that “common sense is not so common.”)
8. What books have most influenced you?
Different books have impacted me during different seasons of my life.
9. With all of the duties that you juggle, when do you fit in the time to write?
This is a great question. There is no denying that writing requires many sacrifices. Truth be told, all too often my sons have heard me say, “I need to concentrate. Please don’t talk to me right now!” However, because my sons need and deserve my focused attention during our school days, much of my writing is done before dawn (while my household sleeps), or late at night.
10. What is the Scripture verse that you would call your favorite?
At a writer’s conference some years ago, I came to believe that Philippians 2:14-16 might be my “life verse.”
I could not pick a favorite verse, but I can say that I feel particularly convicted to live out Philippians 2:14-16:
“Do everything without grumbling or arguing,
so that you may become
blameless and pure,
children of God without fault
in a warped and crooked generation.
Then you will shine like stars in the sky
as you hold out the word of life.”
