Story Warren Weekend, Vol. 14, Issue 41

ByKelly Keller

Good morning,

Possibly my favorite regular part of fall (apart from not sweating in ninety degree temps) is the difference the way the light falls—the sun’s rays are gentler and more golden; the shadows are longer as they fall across the leaves. Light in the autumn feels more hospitable than the summer sun. It demands a little bit less of us.

Around the Web

If you’re somebody who was excited by the possibility of a gift exchange between Story Warren readers, it’s time to sign up! You can go right here to fill out your profile. Don’t be shy! We will draw names on November 14th, so don’t wait!

Carolyn Clare Givens at Bandersnatch Books wants you to know you’ve been misinformed about the covers of books: “It’s human nature to judge a book by its cover, and as creators of books, we should lean into that and think creatively about what artists or illustrator is the right person with the right style for this book. For good or ill, the book will be judged by its cover.”

Around the Warren

Ashley Anthony brought us a review of Amanda Cleary Eastep’s Jack and the Red Giant. This book is the perfect December read and holiday addition to your library. “In considering these questions, Eastep doesn’t belittle middle-graders’ struggles and concerns but honors them. At one point, Jack contemplates the weight of Jesus’ commands: “Jesus said we should love our enemies. Jesus said a lot of things that are hard to do, at least for a kid.” Eastep recognizes that battles within one’s heart, whether we’re young or old, aren’t easily won. It’s hard to obey Jesus’ commands.”

Kailyn Clay recommended two books about creativity for moms. “Motherhood and creativity sometimes seem like paradoxical pursuits. I think any mother with a creative hobby–writing, crocheting, baking, painting–knows that doing their art takes time, and motherhood is a stage of life where schedules are so unfriendly toward the time that creativity takes.”

Something to do with your kids

This looks like a fun possibility for any upcoming gathering: Thanksgiving Name Game. It’s a printable, so you can bring it to the table and let the fun begin!

Something to watch

Whimble and the Birds:

Thanks for reading. We’re on your side.

Kelly Keller
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