Today, we’re looking at how art and music play a huge role in books. If you haven’t already, take a listen to artist Heather Deiter’s interview about her role as a cover designer and illustrator!
For music, Christian Inspirational Author Esther Bandy shares how hymns have influenced her faith and writing.
Esther, can you tell us what drew you to writing?
When I was a toddler, my oldest sister read to me, and I quickly learned to love books. As I grew older, she brought books home from the library for me to read myself. I loved books and reading, and soon I was creating my own stories just for fun!
How has music influenced your writing?
My father loved music. He was always singing, whistling, playing his harmonica, playing records, or listening to the radio. I learned to love music too. Over the years many songs have been a blessing to me. As I write I’m often reminded of special songs, and it seems natural to include them in my writing.
What style of music do you enjoy most?
Over the years I’ve enjoyed different styles of music. As a child I spent hours listening to the radio and to my parents’ record albums. Now I’m especially drawn to Christian music. I love the old hymns and some of the newer inspirational worship songs. They have a major impact on my life and my writing.
You are releasing your debut middle grade novel. What was your inspiration for this story?
I began writing Under the Tangerine Tree after my dad died in 2005. I loved my dad, and even though I knew he was in heaven, I still missed him. I’d also met many children who lost their fathers due to death or divorce. I wanted to write a book that would help children deal with grief and allow me to express my own feelings of missing my dad. In addition, I had a desire to share God’s love and help children understand the gospel. It’s such a blessing to know that when we receive the Lord Jesus as Savior, we become children of God and have a heavenly father who will always be there for us.
What advice would you like your young (or older) readers to take away from your novel?
I hope my readers will understand that even though this life is filled with challenges, life is good, and they can have hope. Why? Because God loves them, and He has a wonderful plan for their lives. When people understand the gospel, they have the opportunity to receive Christ. That can be a blessing for them!
For more about Esther, visit her website: http://esthermbandy.com/