I am honored and excited to feature an adorable new padded board book by my friend Laine Lawson Craft. I asked her a few questions to get a behind-the-scenes look at this product for babies and toddlers. I am sure you will enjoy her answers.

So, here’s the typical question that all authors get asked—How did you get the idea for this book?

Writer’s retreats are often places where new ideas are sparked, and God whispers fresh assignments into willing hearts. During one of those sacred, quiet moments away with the Lord, The Beginning of You was born. I wasn’t planning to write a children’s book, but I felt such a strong impression that babies need truth spoken over them from the very start of their lives. Not just sweet words, but identity.

Psalm 139 reminds us that we are fearfully and wonderfully made. Before a child ever takes their first breath, God already has a purpose woven into their story. That truth became the heartbeat behind this brand-new release, The Beginning of You.

As a mom who once walked through the heartbreak of prodigal seasons with my own children, I know how critical identity is. When children grow up anchored in truth, it protects them later. At that retreat, the three core messages came clearly: God made you. God has a purpose and plans for you. God loves you immeasurably.

Did you have any challenges during the process?

Writing the book required prayer and patience. It was written twenty-plus years ago, and it had to be edited a few times. I wanted it to be biblically solid yet simple enough for the youngest hearts to understand. Every word was weighed carefully so that even a baby being rocked to sleep would hear eternal truth spoken over them.

Tell us about these adorable illustrations.

The illustrations bring that message to life in the most tender way. The pages are warm, soft, and full of wonder. Diverse families, peaceful nursery moments, and gentle expressions reflect innocence and a sense of belonging. Each spread was intentionally designed to feel safe and comforting, like truth wrapped in love.

What is the take-away message for little ones and those who care for them?

The book is created for ages 0–5 and makes a meaningful gift for baby showers, newborn celebrations, baptisms, or first birthdays. My heart behind writing it is simple: that every child would grow up knowing they are not an accident. They are created by God from their head to their toes, with purpose, surrounded by immeasurable love, from the very beginning of life.

Thank you, Laine. We know that many families will be blessed by this precious book you have written.

The Beginning of You is published by Kregel Publishing and is available anywhere books are sold.

Visit: Home – Laine Lawson Craft for many free resources, baby gifts, and more.

Here’s to telling Little Ones they are created on purpose and loved very much!

Crystal

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