When you think of Christian children’s books, you might picture simple moral tales or Bible stories. But what if those same values could live inside an adventurous, imaginative world—one that kids can’t put down?

That’s exactly what Christian children’s author G.B. Sollie has done with The Swamp Witch Chronicles. His stories don’t just teach faith—they live it. And they’re rooted in something even deeper: real family history.

1. Start with Real-Life Roots

Every great story begins somewhere. For Sollie, it started in Aimwell, Alabama, during the Great Depression.

The young boy in his stories, Little Preacher, was inspired by Sollie’s own father, whose faith and courage in a hard era shaped the man Sollie would become. These personal ties give his books a sense of authenticity—something every aspiring author should consider.

Writing Tip: Use your own family stories, traditions, and faith journeys as the foundation for your characters. Readers—especially kids—can sense when a story is real.

2. Weave Christian Values Naturally into the Plot

Faith in fiction works best when it feels lived, not forced. In A Journey to the Light, Sollie embeds seven core values—Courage, Discipline, Honesty, Compassion, Faith, Forgiveness, and Hope—into the adventures of Cat Luker and his friends.

Rather than preaching, the story lets kids see these values tested in real situations. It’s the same reason classics like The Chronicles of Narnia still resonate.

Writing Tip: Choose a few biblical values and let them guide your characters’ choices. Show, don’t tell.

3. Blend History, Fantasy, and Hope

Sollie’s books are not just faith-based—they’re immersive. They take readers back to 1930s Alabama and into a world where time travel, swamp witches, and spiritual battles collide.

This mix of historical setting and fantasy elements sparks curiosity while reinforcing the timelessness of faith.

Writing Tip: Don’t be afraid to mix genres. Kids love adventure, mystery, and even a little bit of magic—just keep the faith message clear and consistent.

4. Engage Kids AND Parents Spiritually

One of the most unique aspects of G.B. Sollie’s work is how it extends beyond the page. The companion Bible Study Guide for A Journey to the Light helps parents and children reflect together on the story’s themes.

This turns reading into a shared spiritual journey.

Writing Tip: Consider adding discussion questions, activities, or devotionals to your books. They encourage deeper engagement and make your work a resource for families and churches.

5. Practical Tips for Aspiring Christian Children’s Authors

• Mine your heritage: Faith grows stronger when rooted in real stories.
• Let characters drive the message: Kids connect with characters, not sermons.
• Offer something extra: Audiobooks, guides, and bonus content keep readers involved.
• Stay true to your values: Authenticity is what makes your story stand out.

Final Thoughts

Writing Christian children’s books is about more than telling a story—it’s about passing down faith, values, and hope to the next generation.

G.B. Sollie’s Swamp Witch Chronicles proves that when you mix faith with adventure, you don’t just entertain—you inspire.

📖 Want to see how it’s done?
Start the journey with your kids by exploring G.B. Sollie’s books and experience the faith-fueled adventure for yourself.