Kids don’t need cynical so-called “realism.” They know about evil and villains, let them know about heroics. Let them get a taste for hope. Kids need heroic, hopeful stories. … [Read more...] about Heroes Are Old Fashioned And Kids Need Realism?
Allies in Imagination
S. D. Smith on Dangerous & Intense Stories for Kids
I’m a parent. Our family is intentional about the sort of media we read and watch (the kids and us), and we take that responsibility very seriously. But like so many other areas of discernment, there are ditches on both sides of the road. Many of us, overcorrecting for the (very real) toxicity and vulgarity of so much media, have embraced a “safe for the whole family” approach that is dishonest … [Read more...] about S. D. Smith on Dangerous & Intense Stories for Kids
S. D. Smith: Boys Will Only Read Silly Books? No!
We all can agree that helping boys fall in love with good stories is a noble aim. What is ONE suggestion you have for helping? It can be a book, a habit, a rule, a sneaky scheme—what are you doing that helps engage the young boys you love in reading excellent stories? … [Read more...] about S. D. Smith: Boys Will Only Read Silly Books? No!
Want to Know the Secret Behind Green Ember’s Phenomenal Success?
Dear Friends, I get a lot of credit. I get enthusiastic feedback in heaps. But people credit me with more than I deserve. You want to know what has made this crazy thing go? The Green Ember Series has reached its growing and enthusiastic audience because of you. Compared to a traditional publisher, we’ve spent peanuts on marketing. We’ve simply aimed to remove obstacles. You have been our … [Read more...] about Want to Know the Secret Behind Green Ember’s Phenomenal Success?
Thank You for these Five Years
I grew up playing sports.Where athletes dream of a tryout.For story makers, all we ask,Is to give our tales a chance.You did, and for five years now,You keep giving me your time.You keep giving me an audience,With those you treasure most.We have invited each other in,You and I.I shared with you my stories,Born at home and with my kids.Our adventures became yours,And we exchanged this gift.You … [Read more...] about Thank You for these Five Years
Imagination isn’t a Diversion, it’s the Way
Make believe makes believers. Imagination. A silly, harmless habit of immature kids? I don’t think so. Imagination is seeing what is not obvious. It is seeing what lies beyond the mere visually present. But what if there’s more? More than, “It is what it is?” More than the middle part of the story we’re seeing right now. What if the secular fundamentalist scolds are wrong? What if the stories … [Read more...] about Imagination isn’t a Diversion, it’s the Way
Author as Ally: S. D. Smith’s Green Ember Notes From the Front
I’ve been working hard the last few weeks sharing about the new books, hustling to remove obstacles for families who are keen on these new stories with an old soul. It’s easy to lose the big vision in the hustle and hurry of urgent tasks. But again and again, you guys are reminding me why good stories matter. My friend Heidi says the best stories (anchored in truth, goodness, and beauty) are not … [Read more...] about Author as Ally: S. D. Smith’s Green Ember Notes From the Front
How S. D. Smith Connected With Sally Clarkson’s Family
Sally Clarkson. Clay. Joel. Sarah. Let’s start with Sarah. I met her years ago when we both were new writers for The Rabbit Room. We did a session together at the RR conference and I was blown away by her brilliance and ability to speak so winsomely in public. I didn’t know her parents, but I met Clay and we hit it off. Then I met Sally, too. We loved them at once. I had no idea they were … [Read more...] about How S. D. Smith Connected With Sally Clarkson’s Family