October 12th, 2015…
I thought the date would never come. After an almost three-year-long process from proposal to writing, to then editing and marketing I counted down the days until October 12th – the day my first book, Get Your Story Straight, would be released. And so did my husband (aka my resident theologian!) who devoted LOTS of his time too!
When Get Your Story Straight finally arrived on my doorstep.
It’s no joke when you hear of an author comparing writing a book to giving birth because that is just what it feels like! And much like with a baby’s due date, the closer the date gets, the slower the days go and the more ready you are.
Of course, the year since has flown by! With a year ago today being the day I celebrated with the most thoughtful and supportive friends who figured out alongside me, “What is a book launch party anyway!?” Only to be followed by more friends and family in multiple cities who shared the joy of my book-baby.
These Edmond, Oklahoma ladies outdid themselves with the best book launch barn party I could’ve imagined!
So many awesome friends in Dallas, Texas who came for Get Your Story Straight.
Waco, Texas Book Launch party at Common Grounds Coffee near Baylor’s campus and the famous Magnolia Market.
Houston, Texas Get Your Story Straight book launch party and reuniting of old friends!
Nashville, Tennessee Book Launch Parties
Getting Their Story Straight after Beach Retreat Week.
After a celebratory fall, life returned to normal. But I have continued to be encouraged by the churches, ministries, small groups and individuals around the country who have picked up Get Your Story Straight. To all of you – THANK YOU!
My hope for Get Your Story Straight and reason for writing it is that teens would really see who Jesus is for them and how that translates into everday life.
The one story of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation is about Jesus and what he did. Not so we might look at as an instruction book or how-to book and ask “What Would Jesus Do?” so we can try to live more like him. That’s law, which holds no power to change hearts. Yet sadly what is too often passed off as what Christianity is. But when we see what he DID for us – that’s grace. And grace changes everything.
When we know the story, we begin to see everything about us, our daily lives, relationships and the world through gospel-centered lenses. So while Get Your Story Straight is deep theologically, the application of it is absolutely practical. And from the feedback I’ve gotten this is what teens like. It’s not dumbed down, but challenging in a way that grows them in gospel grace and understanding.
Mother/son duo Getting Their Story Straight together.
Aspen, Colorado teens Getting Their Story Straight over breakfast together.
If you or your teenagers has been reading I would love to hear how it has impacted you. What have you liked/or didn’t like? Had a hard time with? See more clearly now? Message me, or if you would, take a minute to write an Amazon review to the benefit of other readers.
As you can see from the photos scattered throughout, Get Your Story Straight works great for individual devotional time, one-on-one mentoring, parent/child study, small group resource for Bible studies and Sunday school classes. If it sounds like something perfect for your teen you can order it HERE. Or if you need to order in bulk, please contact me and I will put you in touch with the right person at New Growth Press.
Eight grade girls small group Getting their Story Straight!
Some of my Bible study girls – whose names appear in the acknowledgement section:)
Growing in Grace Together!
Don’t want to miss a post? Interested in receiving my new monthly newsletter? Please submit your email in the two designated spots on the top right-hand side of the home page to receive in your inbox.
