Author Interview: Gretchen Huesmann

Being a teacher is a hard gig these days. It can feel like an underappreciated role, an impossible task and heartbreakingly exhausting. And yet, isn't it one of the most important roles Christians can fill? That's why, when I heard about Gretchen Huesmann's new book of devotionals specifically for teachers, I knew I wanted to hear more about her heart behind the project. If you know a teacher and are looking for a gift to bless them as they head into the new year, or to encourage their weary heart, this little book might be just what you're after. Read on to find out more about Gretchen and her book (ooh - and she gets bonus points because her favourite children's author is from Australia!)

Penny: How does your Christian faith impact your writing process?
Gretchen: No matter what I do, whether speaking or writing, I strive to give glory to God and point others to Jesus throughout the process. Every writing endeavor or speaking engagement is covered in prayer before my fingers hit the keyboard. 
Additionally, I strongly believe we are called to handle God’s Word with care, even when writing for children. I want to honor the intent of a Bible verse with contextual understanding. To accomplish this, I pray and ask for insight, consult my pastor-husband and his collection of commentaries, and rely on my Christian critique partners. My partners-of-the-pen are not afraid to call me out if my work strays from a passage’s original meaning.

Penny: Tell us about your most recent book and what you love most about it?
Gretchen: It’s a Good Day to be a Teacher: 52 Devotions to Encourage and Equip Educators (Iron Stream Media) follows the school year beginning with the USA fall term. The book addresses practical issues all teachers face, such as:

• Preparing for the school year, parent-teacher conferences, and special events. 
• Dealing with difficult students, parents, or colleagues. 
• Insight into the all-important summer recovery time. 

I love the book’s size! It easily tucks into your Bible. I call it “small but mighty” as the devotions encourage teachers to utilize prayer and Scripture to fight their spiritual battles.
I dedicated this book to my mother, Doris Walther Conrad who was a teacher. I gave her a copy of the book for her 95th birthday!

"I strongly believe we are called to handle God’s Word with care,
even when writing for children."
- Gretchen Huesmann

Penny: What life experiences have led you to writing this book and were there any particular challenges along the way?
Gretchen: Due to my husband’s ministry, I have taught in schools across seven states for  over three decades. For many years, I resented the upheaval this ministry created for our family and my career. Now I recognize that the Lord planned to use my mobile life to teach me fresh insight at each location. Those experiences inspired many of my devotions and introduce the Bible concepts within.

Penny: Who is an author you love to read, and why?
Gretchen: Long before I penned any material for adults, I fell in love with children’s literature. Australian author Mem Fox has written some of my favorite picture books which I still read today. I had the honor of meeting her once at a literacy workshop and have a collection of autographed books. I can still hear her voice narrating two of my favorites, Where is the Green Sheep? and Tough Boris. 
I am thrilled to share my first picture book, A Time for Everything (based Ecclesiastes 3 for children), will join the world in 2027 with Our Daily Bread Publishing. 

For more information about Gretchen and her books, visit: www.gretchenhuesmann.com
It's a Good Day to be a Teacher can be purchased from Amazonor your favourite online bookstore.