Welcome to my world, where it’s always a beautiful, Midwest summer day. A gentle breeze rustles the leaves on the oaks and the maple trees, lifting your bangs just enough to cool your forehead. Sniff that clean, fresh air. Watch how the bright sun drops sparkling light jewels onto the lake. Spread your blanket under a shady tree, or just lay back on the soft, green grass. Listen to the bird songs, and watch fluffy clouds sail along a under a baby blue sky.
Welcome to Rustic Knoll Bible Camp, the setting for my Young Adult novel titled Sticks & Stones. It’s the first in what I hope will be a series of books published especially for young teens. In Sticks and Stones, you’ll meet Brady McCaul whose newly remarried mother drops him off at Rustic Knoll Bible Camp and tells him he can’t come home. She doesn’t want him living with her anymore. Brady tries to figure out what he did to deserve his mother’s rejection and devises a plan he hopes will change her mind. Instead, a surprising discovery changes everything.
Feel free to explore Rustic Knoll. Check out the map to see the layout of the camp. Meet the staff and campers.They’re a colorful lot. You’ll be impressed with Steven, Brady’s new friend who attends camp even though he’s blind. And the unforgettable Nurse Willie who wears a bucket hat decorated with retired fishing lures. But this is just a snapshot. You’ll have to read Sticks & Stones to really get to know them.
Keep an eye on my blog, too. Occasionally, I’ll post an interview with one of the characters or a some background on how a particular character developed. I’ll share a few camp recipes and keep you informed as to when Sticks & Stones will be published. Look for reviews and recommendations of other novels for middle grade readers as well.
Stop by my page, too, and let’s get acquainted. Be sure to leave a comment or a question. I’d love to get to know you!
Enjoy your visit and come back often!
