Jotham is a lonely orphan whose greatest desire is to find his father. But before he can, he's swept up in an epic battle between the powers of light---championed by a mystical white dove---and frightening forces of darkness. Will Jotham find the courage he needs to prevail? A spellbinding fantasy with a Christian message! 255 pages, softcover from NewLife.
http://www.christianbook.com/a-child-of-the-king/bill-bright/9781563991509/pd/9150X
Author: Marion R. Wells
Located in: Los Angeles, California
Submitted: November 21, 2001
Tell us a little about yourself. I've written extensively for children's animated
television programming, including Disney shows
and the PBS animated series ADVENTURES FROM THE
BOOK OF VIRTUES, based on William J. Bennett's
treasuries of great moral stories. I'm active in
fellowships for Christians in the entertainment
industry and am part of the leadership of a local
class connected with an international Bible study
program. I love flowers and animals. My dogs
Biscuit and Morgan keep me company while I write,
and come to life at the sound of the computer
turning off.
What was your motivation behind this project? I have long believed that storytelling in all its
forms can be a marvelous vehicle to encourage,
inspire, and communicate truth. Even in past
secular projects, my goal was to incorporate a
positive moral message reflecting biblical
values. I also love the fantasy genre and its
capacity to appeal to all cultures. I wanted to
create a spellbinding story with compelling
characters that would intrigue, excite, and point
people to gospel truths presented in new and
thought-provoking ways. Many years ago, I became
a Christian through the ministry of Campus
Crusade for Christ, so the opportunity to team
with Dr. Bill Bright on this project was a
marvelous way to come "full circle".
What do you hope folks will gain from this project? The current "fantasy craze" in today's culture
offers a golden opportunity for fantasy with a
Christian message to advance God's Kingdom. For
those who haven't yet met Christ, I hope the
story of Jotham will intrigue and entice them to
learn more about how they can meet the Good
Shepherd. I pray those who know the Lord may
glean nuggets of spiritual truth that can open
new vistas in their Christian life. And I hope
that in the process all will be enchanted and
entertained by a mythical tale that, though set
long ago and far away, reflects the core life
issues we all wrestle with today.
Who are your influences, sources of inspiration or favorite authors / artists? I love the fantasy works of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R.
Tolkien, as well as great fairytales by various
authors. I also love many of the Disney animated
movies for their marvelous visuals and
storytelling skill. Favorite live-action movies
include CHARIOTS OF FIRE and FIELD OF
DREAMS...but there are many more. Favorite
nonfiction authors include Phillip Yancey and
Charles Swindoll.
Anything else you'd like readers / listeners to know: We're hoping the book will be "family reading".
I've given it to friends who've passed it on to a
child or grandchild (ages 12 and up). Also, A
CHILD OF THE KING is the first book in a
projected trilogy. Though complete in itself, it
leaves certain questions unanswered. All will be
revealed in time...so stay tuned.