New picture book shows children the power of praying scripture

With global news at hand 24/7, children today find themselves exposed to fear-provoking situations beyond the basics of thunderstorms or “monsters” under the bed. All too often, parents rush to alleviate their children’s fears.

“Realistically, parents can’t—and shouldn’t—always be there to help kids calm down,” says Rae Jacobson, former senior editor at the Child Mind Institute. “Teaching your child how to manage their fears without parental intervention will help them build the confidence and independence they’ll need to feel more in control and less afraid, both now and as they grow up.”^[1]

Experts suggest coping tools such as breathing skills, “what if” scenarios, and the use of “anchoring phrases” to help a child regain control of worrisome thoughts.^[2] In Kip the Brave Little Turtle (Redemption Press), author Brandy Bostick illustrates how Scripture verses can be the most powerful anchoring phrases for helping us deal with fear and anxiety.

Little Kip the turtle loves having fun with his dad. But when something unexpected happens during their playtime, Kip finds himself alone and afraid. Scary sounds keep him silently shivering, too terrified to call for help. It’s only when he overhears Dad praying that the little turtle discovers how Scripture can help him face—and overcome—his fears.

Inspired to write her book by an experience with one of her students, Bostick says, “I wanted to create an example for children of what authentic Christian living is supposed to be. Prayer is so much more than a ritual done before meals and bedtime.”

As Kip discovers, “God has not given us a spirit of fear” (2 Tim. 1:7 NKJV). Instead, he is able to remind himself that “When I am afraid, I will trust in You” (Ps. 56:3 CSB). Trapped in a frightening situation, Kip learns from his dad’s example that praying Scripture may not “magically” change our circumstances, but it can and does change our response to them. Bostick’s sweet story of Kip’s prayerful reliance on Scripture will help children trust God too through their own fears.

[1] Rae Jacobson, “How to Help Children Manage Fears,” 30 October 2023. https://childmind.org/article/help-children-manage-fears/.

[2] Ana Gascon Ivey, “13 Coping Skills to Help Kids Manage Anxiety and Stress,” 4 November 2022, https://www.goodrx.com/health-topic/childrens-health/coping-skills-for-kids.

About the author
Brandy Bostick graduated from the University of Louisiana at Monroe and has worked as an elementary school teacher, camp counselor, and after-school program coordinator. Her blog and podcast are found at www.upfromthemuck.com. Brandy lives in West Monroe, Louisiana, with her husband and family. Mom to one and aunt to many more, Brandy believes that helping a child catch the glory of the Lord is a joy like no other.

For interviews, contact: b.heck004@gmail.com or contact@upfromthemuck.com

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Suggested Interview Questions

• What inspired you to write a children’s picture book?
• Did the full story come to you all at once, or did you rework and revise it to achieve its final form?
• The main character, Kip, is a child substitute in the story. Why did you decide to use a turtle as the main character instead of a human child?
• Kip’s predicament begins with his own mischievous choice to run off before Dad is ready to race him. How can parents help children understand the difference between high spirits and disobedience?
• Most children develop specific fears, such as fear of the dark or of “monsters.” How can parents and other caring adults help children cope with these fears through prayer and Scripture?
• In your story, Kip’s dad tells Kip that he too sometimes faces fear. How can parents reveal their own vulnerabilities to their children without causing them more anxiety?
• Do you plan to write any more children’s books?