R.A Stephens is the author name of Rochelle Stephens, an Australian children’s writer. I first met Rochelle about 15 years ago at a writers conference in Queensland when her publishing company Rhiza Press was just beginning. Since then she’s managed to build a successful children’s and YA publishing brand with multiple imprints (Wombat Books, Riveted Press, Rhiza Edge). I’ve had a few of my books (both Penny Reeve and Penny Jaye) published by Rhiza over the years and have gotten to know Rochelle both as a publisher and friend. She’s a publisher with integrity, a heart for emerging Aussie authors and always on the look out for great books for kids. After investing in so many other people’s books, it’s super exciting to see her writing more of her own. In this post I review three of her recent releases: Apples not Oprles, Connected and the first book in the Stephen and the Heroes series. 

I’m a children’s writer. I LOVE kids books. And although I could disappear into the world of children’s literature and possibly never emerge, I do actually read other stuff. I like a light novel (but read Markus Zuzak’s Bridge of Clay recently at the suggestion of my son. Oh my, it was beautifully written but not light). I also enjoy a variety of non-fiction, especially books that make me think about my faith or challenge my spiritual walk with God. Three of these recent reads were Made In Our Image, Press Pause and God’s Abundand Mercy. 

I’m fussy about children’s books. And especially fussy when it comes to children’s books that include themes of faith. But every now and then a Christian children's book comes along that I not only like, but totally love.  Julie and David Lavender’s Children’s Advent Stories for Bedtime: celebrate the true meaning of Christmas is one of those books. And because I love it so much, I made sure I posted this review quickly so you’ve got time to grab a copy for your family before December arrives!
But, ‘What’s so great about it?’ I hear you ask. ‘Isn’t this just another sickly sweet advent book for kids?’ Well, I can assure you there's nothing gimmicky about this book.

​God’s love in a Nutshell is a brightly illustrated book about Chitter, an adorable junior squirrel, who is doing their best to understand God’s love. The story begins with Chitter asking Chatter (the equally adorable grown-up squirrel), ‘Can I keep God’s love in my nutchell?’. The answer is obviously no because, ‘God’s love is too big to fit in your nutshell’. This sends Chitter on a quest to figure out how to keep God’s love close all the time. It’s such a cute story opening with an important and relevant question, but there was one line in this adorable book (can you tell I liked the squirrels?) that made me pause... 

The World Needs The Wonder You See is a picture book invitation to see the world through the lens of creativity, wonder and imagination. It’s a large format picture book with a paper-feel matt cover and indented title and is quite lovely. I found my copy at my local Dymocks bookstore and took it home for a quiet, slow read. ​