Getting ready for edits.

As you know from my last blog, I am working on a new novel that is in a completely new genre. It's a murder mystery! However, as a writer I never work on just one project at a time. I am also editing a middle-grade book. It's an adventure incorporating contemplative prayer and handicapped children. The first book, Jenna's Journey, is already finished. I am doing edits with the great input of the talented writers who belong to the Jackson Library Writer's group.

Once I am done with these edits, I will be sending it to my professional editor. She will, hopefully, hone it into a unique piece of work.

I love this new book because it shares the power and mystery of the Catholic faith. The story takes Christian meditation to the next level, teaching middle-grade children the wonders of prayer and the transformation of faith.

So often the handicapped are ignored in our society. It is the Catholic belief that every life is valuable and created by God for a purpose. That belief inspired me to write from the point of view of a handicapped child.

The first time I tried this was in my novel, Down Right Good. Now, in what I hope will be a trilogy, I am attempting to touch on the spiritual grace of suffering, faith, and hope.

Contemplative prayer is my own method of prayer and has both enhanced and enlightened my relationship with a personal Jesus. I hope to encourage children to be open to the power of the Holy Spirit and find the daily guidance in contemplative prayer. We know children grow physically and emotionally. We guide them to learn from the experiences they have and the sports they participate in. Often we miss guiding then through spiritual maturation. Prayer is at the core of love, love of God and others.

Today I read a quote that will stay with me because it touched me so much: "I looked inward and there was honesty. I looked outward and there was hope. I looked up and there was faith.”

My prayer is that this new series will do the same for my young readers.

Karen’s books can be purchased on her website: www.kkboyce.com