I recently caught up with the awesome author of a host of delightful titles for young children. Jill Roman Lord is a dear friend who has a heart and passion for sharing the Lord with little ones. Read our interview below about her most recent book, Fruit of the Spirit Bedtime Prayers

Tell us how the idea for your new book came about.

This publisher contacted me and asked if I’d be interested in writing a Fruit of the Spirit Bedtime prayer book for ages birth through two-year-olds. I was thrilled and said, “YES!”

How long did it take for the book to come to life, from the initial idea to the launch day of the book?

Believe it or not, I had about 2 weeks to write the book.

What is your favorite part of the book?

I love that the Fruit of the Spirit concept could be simplified for easy understanding. That was a challenge for sure, but I love how it turned out.

What message do you hope children will take away from the reading of your book?

I want kids to know that reacting to situations can be a choice even at an early age. Kids can learn that instead of getting mad, stomping, or getting frustrated in certain situations, they may let the fruit of the spirit bubble up within them to respond with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.

How many other books have you written?

I’ve written about 35 books.

Tell us about your writing journey. When did you first know you wanted to be a children’s author? How long did it take to get your first book published?

I’ve always loved writing but chose a different career. When I was happily working part-time and raising my children, I felt an urgent fire within me prompting me to write a book for children. I had no idea what to write but knew I had to do it. It took about 2 weeks to come up with an idea, which was a children’s devotional. Once it was written, I received a year’s worth of rejection letters before I received a positive nibble which led to my first contract. My first book was published in 1999.  

What is the best part of writing for children?

I love the possible impact books have on children. Kids will be read books of one kind or another and the thought that it might be a wholesome, enjoyable, fun book pointing to God, showing them a part of His world, or how great His love is for them, is really my heart for writing for children. I hope that my books will have a positive influence on children, draw them closer to God, and keep them wanting to know more about Him. 

Do you have another job besides “writer”? I retired about a year ago from a fabulous career as a nurse anesthetist. Now with more time, I enjoy volunteering at a local food bank and at a farm that caters to special needs children and veterans. I enjoy traveling, running, playing golf, pickleball, and I just might start learning how to play mah jongg. 

Tell us about your family.

I’ve been married to the same guy, Bill, for 38 years. We have three grown children, two of them are married and between them we have three grandchildren.

Post by Julie Lavender