Today, I’m delighted to host best-selling Christian children’s author Glenys Nellist for an interview in celebration of her newest release with Zonderkidz, BAPTIZED IN THE WATER. This colorful picture book showcases beautifully diverse renderings of children and adults being baptized by the many varying means across Christian denominations. It got me thinking about my own baptism at age 12 via immersion in a little missionary church in Paris, France! As part my baptism, I also spoke aloud my profession of faith – that I had accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior. I’m so glad I took that step all those years ago, for it has made all the difference in this journey called life. Maybe the book will get you thinking about baptism memories as well. And now for the interview, with my questions in blue to match the lovely cover of the book. (Oh, and there’s a giveaway so be sure to check that out at the end of the post.)
Welcome, Glenys, what inspired you to write a book about baptism?
Since I’m married to a pastor, I have had the privilege of witnessing many baptisms. In our denomination the water is poured or sprinkled, but I’ve also been present at baptisms where the person was fully immersed. Each time I’ve attended this sacred event, no matter where, or how, or when it occurred, it simply felt that we were celebrating our belonging in one wonderful, united family in Christ. The inspiration, then, for writing a book on baptism came from a desire to celebrate this oneness, this unity in Christ, despite the varying traditions or beliefs that may be held. For me, baptism is a beautiful, holy, mysterious moment that none of us really understands. I hope that Baptized in the Water captures some of the mystery and meaning of this ancient sacrament.
How do you hope churches and families will use the book?
I hope that pastors, Christian Educators, Sunday school teachers, parents and grandparents might use Baptized in the Water to inspire curious conversations with children about the mystery and meaning of baptism. I know that many churches and families have also bought the book as a baptism gift, which is wonderful!
Do you have a favorite spread?
Anna Kazimi did a beautiful job with the diverse illustrations and it’s hard to pick just one! But I really love the following spread, because it illustrates all the different ways to be baptized.
Are there any special resources that go along with the book that readers might enjoy?
Yes! I wrote this free downloadable Activity Pack to accompany the book, which includes tips for talking with children about baptism as well as signed bookplates, commemorative bookmarks and a certificate.
Finally, what’s next in the pipeline?
In July my next picture book with Beaming Books will be published, called Little Mole Goes to School, and then in the fall, I have three board books releasing. Good News! It’s Creation! and Good News! God Loves You (Our Daily Bread publishers) make their appearance in September, and the seventh in the Snuggle Time series, Snuggle Time Love, (Zonderkidz) hits the shelves in December. So it’s another busy year for me!
Thank you, Glenys, for joining me today. I wish you the very best with this and all your books.
BIO Glenys Nellist was born and raised in a little village in northern England. The author of multiple children’s books, including the bestselling ‘Twas the Evening of Christmas, The Wonder That is You, and five popular series: Love Letters from God, Snuggle Time, ‘Twas, Good News and Little Mole, her writing reflects a deep passion for helping children discover joy and hope in the world. Glenys lives in Michigan with her husband, David. Connect with her here:
NOW FOR THE GIVEAWAY!!! If you’d like a chance to win a copy of BAPTIZED IN THE WATER (Zonderkidz, 2022) follow this blog and comment below saying you’d like to be entered. (NOTE: Must be U.S. resident and at least 18 years old to enter.) Thank you, Zonderkidz, for providing the winning book. This giveaway ends Monday, 6/6/22 at 11:59 pm EST. The winner will be announced the next day!
[Note: Thank you to the publisher for an advance copy at the book. The views and opinions expressed on this blog about books and other things are purely my own.]
Laura Sassi Tales 
Thank you so much for interviewing me, Laura. I’m excited to see who wins Baptized in the Water!
I read this first thing this morning, but wasn’t able to comment on my phone. I love the inclusiveness of this book, Glenys and Laura. It’s so welcoming. And for someone with another faith background, I love that! All my good wishes for many, many readers!
Thank you so much, Amy.
Thanks for stopping by. I have added your name.
I would like to be entered to win a copy of “Baptized in the Water”
You are entered. Thank you for stopping by.
This looks like a beautiful book that explores baptism and God’s love for each and every one of us. I would love to be entered to win a copy.
Wonderful! Thank you for stopping by.
I would love to be entered! Looks like a lovely book!
Lovely! I have added your name.
I’m interested in reading, and winning, a copy of your book. It is good to learn of new perspectives.
Thanks for popping in, Kala. I’ve added your name.
What a great topic for a kids book! I would love to share it with the children’s ministry at my church!
Thank you, Abigail. I’ve added your name.
I would love to be entered! This would be a great book for my niece!
Thanks for letting me know. I have added your name.