Book Mary on your Podcast

Mary's Bio:

Mary Grace Johnson is a published author with hope*books in Matthews, NC. She is a former English teacher and librarian, and she writes inspirational stories to

uplift those facing hard times, offering the love and hope found in Jesus Christ. She has written articles and short stories for blogs, such as those by Jen Roland

and Twyla Franz.

Mary is also a story contributor for Faith Storytellers: Unleash the Power of Your Story (2024) by Mackenzie Ryan Walters and is a contributing author to Hope for the Holidays: Stories and Traditions for a Peaceful Season (2024).

She lives in South Dakota with her husband, who is her greatest cheerleader and makes her laugh every day, bringing joy and encouragement into every part of her life. She is endlessly proud of her children, watching them grow into remarkable individuals. And now, as a grandparent,

she is savoring this sweet chapter--her grandchildren

bring a special kind of love and light that

she cherishes deeply.

And the Sun Came Up is a picture book for children (approx ages 4-10) about a family of 5 children who loses their dad in a farm accident and how the main character, Lucy, continues on, even through this traumatic event. Jesus Christ gives her hope for the future.

Mary's Book

Why Mary Wrote the Book

Why Mary Wrote the Book

I write to help children (and adults) who deal with loss at an early age find Jesus Christ, who brings hope to go on.

  • How to Talk to Kids About Hard Things Without Losing Hope
    Exploring age-appropriate ways to guide children through grief, fear, or trauma while anchoring them in faith and resilience.

  • The Power of Story: Why Children’s Books Matter in Healing
    How storytelling helps kids process their emotions and why Christian children’s literature offers something unique.

  • Turning Trials into Testimonies: Writing for Young Readers from a Place of Faith
    A behind-the-scenes look at the author’s personal journey and how it informs her writing.

  • Faith, Imagination, and Emotional Safety: What Christian Authors Can Give Kids Today
    Discussing the intersection of spiritual formation and emotional health in children’s literature.

  • Raising Hopeful Kids in a Broken World
    How caregivers and communities can build resilience and hope into the next generation—even when life is messy.

Topics Mary Could Discuss On Podcasts

Questions To Ask Mary:

  • What inspired you to write this book, and how did your personal experiences shape the story?

  • Why do you think it's important for kids to read stories that don’t shy away from hard topics?

  • How can faith-based stories offer something different—or more lasting—than general inspirational children’s books?

  • What role does hope play in healing, especially for kids?

  • How do you balance honesty about pain with a message of encouragement and comfort?

  • What are some signs that a child might need emotional support, and how can books like yours help?

  • What do you hope children—and the adults reading with them—take away from this story?

  • Have you received feedback from families or readers that confirmed the impact of your message?

  • How would you encourage other Christian authors who feel called to write children’s books?

  • What’s next for you in your writing journey, and how can people support your work?

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Copyright © 2025 Mary Grace Johnson, Author. All rights reserved.