An Interview with an Author: Melissa Henderson
It’s Author Thursday on my blog! Today, meet award-winning Christian author Melissa Henderson, who writes inspirational messages in articles, devotions, and stories.
Her first book for children is Licky the Lizard,. and her second book, Grumpy the Gator, has just released. She is a contributor to the compilations Heaven Sightings, Remembering Christmas, and Divine Interventions: Heartwarming Stories of Answered Prayers. Her passions are helping in community and church.
Melissa is an Elder, Deacon, and Stephen Minister. Their family motto is “It’s Always A Story With The Hendersons.” She is a member of Word Weavers Charleston Chapter and the Secretary for American Christian Fiction Writers South Carolina Lowcountry Chapter.
Learn more about Melissa through the links at the end of this interview.
—By Jessica Brodie
JB: Tell us about yourself and your faith journey.
Melissa: My faith journey began when I was a young girl, attending church with my Daddy. I stood beside him as he sang the old time hymns. Daddy read the Bible and helped me memorize John 3:16. Daddy and Mama both shared their love of the Lord. I am thankful for mentors God placed in my life along the way. Through teen years and adulthood, God has given women and men who provided guidance and wisdom.
JB: When did you know you wanted to become a writer?
Melissa: I have always wanted to be a writer. In elementary school, creating and writing stories was a great outlet for my imagination. From writing short stories to full length novels, writing has always been a passion for me. Looking back on some of the writing from my youth, I am amazed at how my writing has improved. Writing conferences and writing groups help.
JB: How does your faith influence your writing?
Melissa: My faith definitely influences my writing. I have a note on my computer that says “pray first.” Before I type/write the first words, I ask God to guide me and provide words He wants to share. All of my stories, articles, devotions, etc. are heartfelt and sometimes laced with a bit of humor.
JB: Do you have other books coming out in the future?
Melissa: My new children’s book, Grumpy the Gator, has just released. Licky the Lizard was my first book for children. Many people asked when I would have another children’s book. Since there are many alligators in the Lowcountry of South Carolina, I decided to write a book about being safe around gators. In Licky the Lizard, the reader is reminded God created all of us and we should not be afraid of lizards. In Grumpy the Gator, the reader is shown what to do when seeing a gator. Always tell an adult and don’t get near the gator.
JB: What do you hope for readers to take away from your books?
Melissa: Writing is a true blessing. I always learn something from everything I write and everything I read. God gives inspiration for writing in every moment.
Check out Melissa online:
Website and blog: http://www.melissaghenderson.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MelissaHendersonAuthor
Pinterest: Melissa Henderson
Twitter: https://twitter.com/mimionlife
“Licky the Lizard” http://a.co/d/0a3COnd
“Grumpy the Gator” https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08NY11WVV/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i0
“Heaven Sightings” http://www.amzn.com/B07NDMCRZC
“Remembering Christmas” http://www.amazon.com/dp/1604950595
