This series of interviews has been such a joy!
I’ve loved hearing how different people use children’s books and the impact those books have had, whether that’s an impact on the interviewee themselves, or how the books impact children in their lives. This month I interview Victoria Riollano! She’s is a motivational speaker, licensed minister, and author of three Christian living non-fiction books. She’s also a mother of nine and draws on her experience in ministry and in motherhood to write her book: Warrior Mother: Equipping Your Heart To Fight For Your Family’s Faith.
​When I was thinking of people to interview for this series, I knew I wanted to chat with Victoria!

I first 'met' Sue Schlesman when I was reviewing a children's Bible. She was one of the authors of The Compassion Storybook Bible, a delightful children's Bible that places God's compassion at the centre (you can read my review here). I was impressed by Sue's approach to sharing God's word with children so when she reached out to let me know about her new picture book I was keen to take the opportunity to interview her again. She's got lots of great reading suggestions, and a lovely story of how books and story have shaped her life and love of writing! 

Carolyn Tonkin is an amazing woman of faith I've had the priviledge to meet through Omega Writers, Australia's Christian Writers' Network. She is the current president of that organisation and has a heart for encouraging Aussie Christian writers. She's a writer herself, and is writing a Christian historical fiction series called The Mark of the Spirit, the second book in the series will launch in time for Christmas (a perfect gift for historical fiction lovers)! 
I loved hearing from Carolyn about the way she engages with children's books, especially her advice about what to do if you aren't enjoying what you are reading - brilliant!

Linsey Painter is an Aussie children's author. She's also an avid reader, the leader of the Omega Writers Fantasy and Sci/Fi Chapter and a mum of three boys (one of whom illustrates some of her books!). Linsey and I connected years ago, over writing but also over our shared experiences in mission (both as adults and as MKs). I've long respected Linsey's work so was excited to interview her for this series so I could learn more about how she reads, shares books with young people and how that in-turn influences her own writing. Enjoy!

You'll love this interview with Michelle.
How do I know? Because she's honest enough to admit to something we all do: we judge books by their covers! And, here's the thing. I agree with her. Especially when it comes to children's books. When adults are choosing books to share with children - whether it's for bedtime stories, or in a classroom or library setting - covers are hugely important invitations. But that's not all Michelle looks out for when selecting books...