I love sharing other authors writing journeys on Jubilee Writer. Today I welcome Melissa Henderson. She’s going to have a drawing for a copy of her children’s book at the end of this post. Don’t miss it. Thank you for being with me today, Melissa.
What prompted you to write a children’s book?
The inspiration for writing my children’s book, “Licky the Lizard” was based on two things. The first and most important is that I wanted to write a story for our first grandchild. He is 2 years old now. I wanted to share my love of writing and reading with him.
What a wonderful reason.
The second reason I wrote the story is to share how I overcame my fear of lizards. Well…to be honest, I am still working on being totally rid of the fear of lizards.
In the story, a lady is afraid of the lizard who lives outside her front door. She realizes the lizard is just as afraid of her as she is of it.
Sounds like a fun story.
My love for reading and writing began at an early age. My parents enjoyed reading and shared the love of the written word with me. From reading newspapers to books to visiting the local library or bookmobile, there was always something to read in our home.
I was blessed with wonderful teachers in elementary school who noticed my love of stories. Those special teachers encouraged my writing and gave me inspiration to continue my writing journey.
Do you have a favorite verse?
Philippians 4:4 New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice.
This Scripture reminds me of the love God has for us. I wake in the morning and before my feet touch the floor, I am rejoicing and thanking God for His blessings.
Who is your best support?
My family gives me great encouragement in my writing. Also, I participate in several writers groups in the area. All writers need encouragement to press on in their writing experience.
Back Cover Copy: click here to order.
Licky the Lizard is one nice lizard, and just like you and me, he’s one of God’s own creations. Unfortunately, we sometimes forget that we’re really all the same—because He created everything in our world. We feel afraid because of our differences.
What happens when Licky the Lizard comes face to face with a lady who’s going in and out of her house? When the lady sees Licky, he causes her quite a fright! But guess what? Licky is also scared. Of her. They’re scared of each other! Then Licky and the lady remember that there is no need to be afraid. They were both created by God, and that’s what makes them very special.
In Licky The Lizard, author Melissa Henderson offers parents, grandparents, and educators a tale that teaches young children a simple, yet important message: There is no need to fear any of God’s creatures because we are all created by Him—and He loves us all.
More about Melissa.
Melissa Henderson is a writer of inspirational messages. Her first book for children, “Licky the Lizard”, was released in 2018. She also has a story in the compilations “Heaven Sightings” and “Remembering Christmas”. She contributes articles and devotions to various magazines and websites. Her passions are helping in community and church. Melissa is an Elder, Deacon and Stephen Minister. She and her husband Alan moved from Virginia to South Carolina to be near son, daughter-in-love and first grandchild. The family motto is “It’s Always A Story With The Hendersons”.
Follow Melissa on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and at http://www.melissaghenderson.com
Giveaway:
Melissa is happy to give away a signed copy of “Licky the Lizard”. Answer the question to put your name in the drawing.
Question- Are you afraid of lizards?
Put your answer in the comments. We will draw a name on Monday.
Melissa Henderson, Award Winning Author Social Media links:
Website and blog: http://www.melissaghenderson.com
Facebook: Melissa Henderson, Author
Pinterest: Melissa Henderson
Twitter: @mimionlife
Buy links:
“Licky the Lizard” http://a.co/d/0a3COnd
“Heaven Sightings” http://www.amzn.com/B07NDMCRZC
“Remembering Christmas” http://www.amazon.com/dp/1604950595
I’m not afraid of lizards but I also don’t want one as a pet.
I agree. Today, we have several lizards climbing on the back porch screen. 🙂
What a wonderful interview! I loved learning more about this fun story with a little life lesson from a lizard! God bless you and all you do!
Thank you Melissa. Lizards are very interesting. 🙂
Though we haven’t lived in lizard country long — we don’t have them in northern climates — I’m not afraid of them. We have green ones that hang out on our brick house walls, we have a brown one that loves our patio umbrella, and there’s another brown one that thinks it owns our mailbox. I’m still a bit startled when I reach for the mail, and find a lizard staring at me, but I love sharing our space with them.
I would jump if I found a lizard in the mailbox. haha! Now that the weather is warm, almost hot, the lizards are all over the back porch area.
I am afraid of lizards, I think because of the way they look and move, slithery like snakes. I already have one copy of Melissa’s book I bought for my grandchildren. Enjoyed this interview and hearing more about you and your favorite Bible verse.
Thank you for your encouragement Karen. I am afraid of snakes of any size. 🙂
This is great, Melissa, and I enjoyed getting to learn more about you and the why behind this book! I LOVE lizards (I realize I am odd!), and so I’m very happy your own fear and desire to overcome this fear helped motivate this! 🙂
Jessica, I did not know you LOVE lizards! Very interesting. 🙂
I love hearing how your personal experience shaped you as an author. No, I’m not afraid of lizards. I think they’re cute.
Candice, this morning I stepped out on to the back porch to check for lizards. The sun is shining brightly and the lizards will be out soon. 🙂
It was fun learning more about you, Melissa! What a beautiful way to use your writing. 🙂
Great interview and I love the message of the story. We are all God’s creation. Thanks and congratulations