I am super excited to introduce an up-and-coming children’s author whose new picture book will be released on March 19. I can honestly say that I have known Kate Reitema her entire life. Kate’s mom and I not only grew up together, but we were college roommates, bridesmaids in each other’s wedding, and have lived life side-by side. Kate is a gifted writer, mom to five girls, and faithful wife. I’m going to let Kate tell you the story behind her story so you will enjoy getting to know her too.

Please tell us how you got the idea to write your new picture book.

This story came on the heels of an extra special foster placement. He had limited verbal skills and a long list of medical diagnoses. We all adored him, but wow, his life seemed really unfair. He was sad much of the time, he suffered pain, and although he couldn’t articulate it, I’m sure he missed his family. I worried about his health, his future, and what would happen when he left our home.

I felt the tension of believing in the goodness of God, but wondering where that goodness was for our foster son. So, one day, I sat down and typed out all the things I knew to be true, even if I didn’t feel it. It started as a pep talk to myself, turned into a prayer for my foster son, and then it became a children’s book.

Did you face any challenges during the writing or publishing process?

When God Makes Scribbles Beautiful is my first published book, but it certainly isn’t the first book I wrote. It takes effort to learn the craft of picture book writing, and it’s not always a linear process. However, the journey of this particular story felt very smooth and God-ordained. The manuscript was scooped up by a lovely editor early in the submission process, and my experience with B&H publishers and the illustrator, Jennie Poh, has exceeded my expectations.

Who is your target audience?

This book is for any child going through a hard time. It’s for kids impacted by death, divorce, natural disasters, bullying, illness, hospitalizations, depression, or trauma. The advertised age range is 2-6, but it’s a hope-filled resource for all ages.

What would you like readers to take away from your story?

Ultimately, I want readers to feel hope. I want them to see their hard thing without shame, ask for God’s help, and trust God’s plan. And then, to feel empowered to help others.

Please share your social media links and let us know where we can order your book. 

You can request my book at your local Christian bookstore, or find it online at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Christianbook.com, Target, or Walmart.

The publisher created a couple fantastic resources that are available for free on my website! The first resource is a Parent Connection sheet to help facilitate further discussion. The second is a set of nine printable Promise Cards with Bible verses from the story.

Website: www.katerietema.com
Twitter/X: @katerietema
Facebook: Kate Rietema – Children’s Author
Instagram: katerietema

I had the privilege of reviewing an advanced copy of this picture book and here is my response:

Thank you, Kate, for telling our followers about this beautiful and heart-tugging picture book.
Here’s to beautiful scribbles!

Crystal

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