Talkshow Thursday: Meet Karen Ferguson

Talkshow Thursday: Meet Karen Ferguson

I'm thrilled to welcome author Karen Ferguson to my blog for the first time. She has written children's books and a devotional. Grab a "cuppa" and get to know this fascinating author.

How many books have you written, and which is your favorite?

I have written (and published) three books so far, with two in the same genre. My favorite by far are my children’s books. My first book, a wellness devotional, was a powerful experience for me as I learned so much about God and myself through that process; but writing kid’s books is just plain fun!

What does your writing space look like?

Since transplanting across the USA to Tennessee, it looks like a big cherry wood desk in our bedroom. My husband and I are empty nesters, so we didn’t think twice about downsizing our home in this move; and we gained more land, which is a blessing. Because my husband often works full-time from home, he got the office and I got the bedroom.

Have you ever considered writing under a pseudonym? Why or why not?

I’ve considered it for the adult biofiction piece I’ve slowly been working on over the last several years. But after talking with Francine Rivers at a writing conference, I won’t go that route. She advised against it for the reasons it could be confusing to loyal readers and make it more difficult to market effectively.

How do you develop your characters? (e.g. decide on their vocation, names, etc.)?

I rely heavily on what I know, or in this case, who I know ;) My characters have strong elements of real-life people. I have fun naming these characters, as I like to match names to significant personality traits and inherent meanings.

What sort of research did you do for your story, and was there an exceptionally interesting tidbit you knew you had to include?

For the books in my children's series, Questions for Kids, I begin with my own Bible study, going

deeper to learn about the people, places, and events of each Bible account. Then I Google what others say about it. How does mainstream Christianity view the subject? How are churches and Christian schools teaching it? This helps solidify my own understanding as well as illuminate real life lessons I can include in the story to help young readers make connections between the Bible account and their own lives. I also solicit feedback from others, including an apologetics ministry that I highly trust and recommend, Answers in Genesis.

If your book is part of a series: Did you set out to write a series? Why did you decide to write a series?

Yes! I knew from the beginning this would need to be a series, because it’s impossible to include all the important Bible accounts into one picture book. There are many wonderful children’s Bibles out there, but that wasn’t what I set out to do. I wanted to create a story thread within the Bible story by including life lessons for the main character Lucy. Each book covers one main Bible account to help build biblical literacy, along with a relatable back story for Lucy that helps kids to engage with the text.

How are your characters like you? Different?

Questions for Kids has two main characters: Lucy Lu and her trusted advisor Papa Joe. Papa is modeled after my own dad who went home to be with the Lord in 2019. Down to the little red flag flying high on his scooter. I’d like to think I’m that wise, trusted advisor to my daughters and grandchildren, just like Papa Joe. Lucy is a combination of people, including myself. I may not have bright red hair and freckles, but I did have a lot of questions as a child, just like curious young Lucy.

Why do you write in your particular genre?

Influence. Picture books help children learn about the world around them and are often the beginning of a lifelong love of books. Books impact kids, teaching them important character qualities and helping them form an understanding of right and wrong. Some books help prepare kids for new stages, phases, and opportunities. My background in K-8 education and my faith in God drives me to write biblically based books for young readers. I want to make a difference in this next generation through colorful, creative books that point kids to Jesus!

What books are on your nightstand right now?

House of Honor, an award-winning fiction book by fellow Ambassador International author Margaret Ann Philbrick. The Beginner’s Guide to Backyard Homesteading by Lisa Lombardo, and Quantum Glory: The Science of Heaven Invading Earth by Phil Mason.

What is your next project?

I’m currently in the publishing process for the third book in the Questions for Kids picture book series. Much more on the topic and launch date soon! Here’s a teaser that just might give the topic away: you’ll find a rainbow in this book. 🌈

About Question for Kids

Follow the exciting adventures of curious young Lucy and her trusted advisor Papa Joe as they journey through the Bible to discover unique periods in biblical history, getting answers to life’s important questions and learning all about God’s never-changing, never-failing, never-ending love. In the Questions for Kids series young readers will encounter God the Creator and His marvelous, majestic creation; they’ll meet Adam, Eve and a sneaky serpent in the Garden, learn the power of God’s Word, why He made the rainbow and much more. Join Lucy and her Papa in this captivating series about God’s love and faithfulness for all people throughout all of history.

About Karen Ferguson
Karen Ferguson is a writer, Host of the 5-Minute Parenting podcast, and the author of the Questions for Kids picture book series. A lover of words, family, animals, and Jesus, Karen is a passionate advocate for truth that transforms lives. Her faith in God and background in K-8 education inspires her mission to share God’s unchangeable truths and His unchanging love with the next generation. You can follow Karen on Facebook and Instagram and sign up for her free newsletter to be the first to know about special events, book updates, freebies and giveaways.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/illuminatecommunications.org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenfergusonauthor/
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Photo credits:

Bible: Pixabay/Pexels

Boys: Pixabay/Victoria

Other photos: Karen Ferguson