Author: Sherry Vycital York
Located in: USA
Submitted: March 13, 2020
Tell us a little about yourself. I am an R.N. with a B.A. in Anthropology and a B.S. in Nursing, and came to know the LORD Jesus as my personal Savior in 1970.
My husband and I have been married over forty years with a blended family of four adult children and seven grandchildren.
What was your motivation behind this project? Observing our young grandchildren struggling through conflicts, plus reflecting on experiences our children encountered in their youth, the thought came to me to use story as a way to gently introduce godly precepts of obedience, love and compassion, and teach lessons of values and manners. My husband's survival expertise prompted me to add stories of basic skills to use if lost.
What do you hope folks will gain from this project? My hope is that the reading of Little Bit's adventures will stimulate meaningful conversation between children and their significant adults. From the importance of knowing one's full name and address, to dealing with bullies, being lost, and navigating interpersonal relationships Little Bit and his friends experience thought provoking situations worthy of discussion.
How were you personally impacted by working on this project? The publishing of LITTLE BIT IN THE GREAT WIDE FOREST has been a giant leap of faith! From writing the stories, to being challenged to illustrate the book myself, the whole process has stretched me tremendously. I am continually amazed how the LORD has led me one step at a time, meeting my needs and opening unexpected avenues.
Who are your influences, sources of inspiration or favorite authors / artists? Reading books to the grandchildren while snuggling on the couch was a natural setting for stories from Nana. The grands have more story ideas than I can keep up with, and have started writing (or dictating to me) their own stories as well. My husband and the friends of a small writing group have cheered me along, and my late author mother has been a great inspiration. I read Christian fiction and nonfiction voraciously and love old world art. Any creativity I have expressed is through the Lord's grace . . . it is all an adventure to me!
Anything else you'd like readers / listeners to know: Since retiring, writing and watercolor painting have been delightful sojourns into
right brain endeavors. They are like green pastures and still waters for my mind. I believe sharing in the creative process is a gift from our Great Shepherd!
