On November 21, 2018, my wife, Cheryl Bader, self-published her children’s novel, The Maker’s Pool, via Amazon.
She began writing the book several years ago while experiencing health issues that kept her almost completely homebound. But her mind – and her imagination – remained active. During all this time, her faith in the Lord kept her going, regardless of any difficulties. (Incidentally, the Lord healed her supernaturally about three years ago. But that’s another story.)
The suffering led her to wonder what our world might be like had Adam and Eve not fallen for Satan’s lies of equality with God. What if they had continued trusting God instead of themselves, or an enemy bent on their destruction? What if our world had remained as perfect as God had designed it to be, with no sin, sickness, or sorrows? What if…?
We know of very few, if any, books or stories that approach this question. I doubt that there are any for children. But now there’s at least one! And it’s suitable for all ages, the young at heart along with the young in years.
The Maker’s Pool includes more than fantasy for young readers. Cheryl wanted a book that would glorify God. Without this vital element, she would have simply written another juvenile fantasy. She wanted more and, in my opinion, she achieved her goal.
Because of her health challenges she needed a long time to complete it. But this allowed her to shape it into the final story that resulted from her efforts and patience. (Incidentally, she creates great cliffhangers. She ended one chapter with so much suspense that I implored her, “Please go write some more!” But every chapter took a lot of energy, and that was all she had that evening.)
Why did she finally publish The Maker’s Pool? Because she heard our pastor preach a message about Jonah. He focused on explaining Jonah’s (and our) need to obey the Lord more than to follow our own desires. God prompted her to write initially, and He prompted her to make the book available to more than simply a small number of readers. So she followed through.
I’ve read it many times and in my unbiased opinion (really!), she wrote a powerful story. I thank her for letting me participate in her creative process. Please check it out.
What will happen next? Stay tuned via her website, newsletter, and more.
And please feel free to share this with others. She hopes that the book will reach a wider audience, so if you’re led, go ahead and spread the word.
If you haven’t gathered so far, I’m really proud of her!
