You are SO Loved provides families of young children with reminders of God’s love and offers reassurance and comfort while encouraging them to embrace their unique qualities. Why was this an important book for you to write?

Writing You Are SO Loved was deeply personal and meaningful for me because I believe that every child deserves to grow up knowing they are unconditionally loved by God. In a world that can often be overwhelming and full of mixed messages, I wanted to create a source of reassurance and hope for families. The book encourages children to see their unique qualities as a gift and helps parents provide comfort and affirmation rooted in faith and truth. This message felt especially important to share, as it reflects the values and love I want every child to carry with them as they grow.

What were some ideas that were important for you to share with young readers and their families in this book?

In You Are SO Loved, I wanted to share a few key ideas that I hope will resonate deeply with readers and their families. First, the reminder that God’s love is constant and unconditional- no matter what challenges we face or how we may feel about ourselves. That foundation of love can bring peace and reassurance in difficult moments. I aimed to provide comfort and hope, not just for children but for families as a whole. Life can be tough, and I wanted this book to be a gentle reminder to lean on God’s love and each other, finding strength and joy in faith and connection.

The illustrations in your book are incredibly engaging. What was the collaboration with Noor Zaki like?

Collaborating with Noor Zaki was an incredible experience. Despite the time difference-me being in Virginia and Noor in Faisalabad, Pakistan- we worked together every morning at 5:00 am for a year. Noor truly brought my vision to life and elevated it in ways I couldn’t have imagined. She understood how important the message of You Are SO Loved was, and her illustrations beautifully captured the heart of the book.

The rainbow was a central part of the color palette, inspired by the Bible verse Genesis 9:11-17, where God places a bright rainbow in the sky as a reminder of His promises. To me, the rainbow symbolizes God’s unwavering love and faithfulness, a miracle we can still see today. It was essential to include it not just as a symbol, but as a thematic element woven into the book. As readers turn the pages, They’ll notice that each illustration transitions through the colors of the rainbow, creating a meaningful and visually engaging experience. Noor captured this vision perfectly, and I’m so grateful for her talent and dedication. Not only was I blessed with a talented illustrator in Noor Zaki, but I also gained a lifelong friend through the process. Working with her daily for a year allowed us to build a deep connection beyond just the book. Her passion and dedication to bring the message of You Are SO Loved to life was remarkable, and I’m forever grateful for her artistry and her friendship. It’s a bond that goes far beyond the pages of this book.

What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?

I’m really excited about the next book I’m working on! While I have five concepts I’m exploring, the one I’m focusing on next will be Christian faith and equestrian-themed. It’s inspired by our horse, Simon, who has an incredible story. He was once neglected, injured, and rejected by his herd, but after we cared for him and nurtured him back to health, he transformed into a healthy, happy horse who now thrives in a loving herd family.

The book will highlight how love, care, and having someone believe in you can truly transform a life. Simon’s story will explore the idea that we all have scars-some visible on the outside and others hidden within. It will emphasize how God can heal those wounds, whether they’re physical or emotional, and how His love and redemption can transform us completely. Simon’s journey is such a powerful example of this, and I hope it will resonate with readers and remind them of God’s incredible ability to make all things new. Simon’s story is such a beautiful reflection of God’s love and redemption, and I can’t wait to share it. As for when it will be available, I’m still in the early stages, but I’m aiming to bring it to life as soon as possible!

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