Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I was inspired to begin writing children’s books during a relapse of my husband’s cancer, a battle which we have been fighting for over ten years. My own two children began to ask questions and I realized how little they understood about a difficult topic like cancer. Since then, I have made it my objective to write children’s books on a wide variety of challenging topics to educate children and help them cope. Also, to help improve communication between parents and their children. I have now written seven books and counting.
As a child, I endured the death of my brother; verbal, physical, and psychological abuse; my parent’s divorce; and my father’s mental illness. I write about this subject matter because I lived it. However, my faith has gotten me through it all. None of these things define who I am or what I can do. I want to help other children in similar situations by giving them resources and knowledge that I didn’t have. Join me in an effort to ignite their faith and inspire them to rise above their circumstances.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is entitled, “Princess Faith Brings Julia Strength.” I was inspired to write it because my daughter, Julia, really struggled to learn to read last year when she was in first grade. It was so hard to watch her struggle and not be able to fix it. So I wanted to help other kids like her.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Not really. But I am old school, so the first draft of everything I write is done with paper and pencil.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I love so many books so it is hard to choose. However, “The Shack” is a book that affected me personally and has lead to the growth of my Christian faith.
What are you working on now?
I have a children’s book in the works called, “The Truth About Police Officers.” I am also writing an adult chapter book with my mom about the journey we started on after my brother was killed in a hunting accident when he was 11.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Probably Facebook advertising. It seems to work well and is cost effective.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Never give up on your dreams, no matter how many times you hear the word, no. God has a plan for us all and I believe He will reward us if we don’t give up when our faith is being tested.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“You dream isn’t dead, it just needs to be woken up.”
What are you reading now?
Wild Montana Skies by Susan May Warren
What’s next for you as a writer?
Keep writing as I find time between my full time job of being a librarian at my daughter’s school, being a mom, and being Sunday School Superintendent at my church. It seems there are never enough hours in the day but writing will continue to be a priority for me.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
The Shack by Wm. Paul Young
Everyday Life Bible by Joyce Meyer
Wonder by RJ Palacio
Author Websites and Profiles
Kelly Strenge Website
Kelly Strenge Amazon Profile
Kelly Strenge’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile