“Debbie has written a modern-day story of the parable of The Good Samaritan in a way for children and families to connect back to God’s Word, while sharing what it means to help others in need. Helping a Neighbor is a great resource for parents and/or grandparents who want to teach eternal truths through everyday examples. Read it to your children, share it with your grandchildren, talk about what it means to be other-centered and allow this wonderful story to engage a young mind to help, serve and love all people. Great job, Debbie Maestas!” –Dan Schepmann, Sr. Pastor, Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Houston, Texas
“Helping a Neighbor tells the story of The Good Samaritan with a modern take which children can relate to in their own lives. After reading this story to my grandchildren, they were full of questions, this opened the door to discussing the Bible story. The story teaches love, kindness and courage along with safe and proper methods to handle a bad situation. The graphics are beautiful, and the book will soon hold a top spot on your reading pile as your children will grow to love learning how they can help a neighbor.” –David Huddleston, Grandpa of six
“This true to life story brings the Bible into the world our children live in today. Kay and Ray are able to show today’s children how to be good Samaritans and still be safe. Two thumbs up!” –Vicki L. Campbell, M. Ed., 19 years as an elementary teacher
“This book is a rendering of the Parable of the Lost Sheep of Matthew 18 and Luke 15. The talented author Debbie Henderson Maestas and illustrator Andrew Thomas have given us the joy of waking up on a day that promises excitement and new experiences—here, a Fall Harvest Carnival. Who does not remember dressing up (Kay has her face painted with little pumpkins), and enjoying games and rides with one’s sibling and best friend? And who does not remember the fear of losing that sibling or friend (here called Tommy) in a crowd. Calling for him, frantically looking for him everywhere, dashing around in the search, figuring out strategies where to look, and distress in not finding him—all are evoked in text and pictures. Like the Good Shepherd, Kay and her big brother, Ray, are absolutely persistent in their search. Then comes the joy in discovering Tommy in an unusual place, and of finding that he is safe. The book movingly depicts their reunion and underscores the point of the parable, that everyone is precious and a joy in God’s sight.” —Ernst F. Tonsing, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus of New Testament and Greek, California Lutheran University, Thousand Oaks, California
“This story is engaging to children of a variety of ages. My children thoroughly enjoyed this story. I love how it ties a true to life story to God’s word. It tells a sweet story that opens up doors for questions/discussion about the Bible. I would recommend this book to anyone with young children.” —Erin Manolakakis, Mother of 3 and former educator
“Debbie has done a wonderful work in writing Finding a Friend. This family adventure turns to concern and worry of a lost child and then helps reinforce the message of God’s love and importance of each individual. This well illustrated and easy-to-read book will have children engaged and asking questions. Keep up the series Debbie!” —Betsy Whicker, Retired Primary Teacher
“Finding a Friend is a simple tool to help children see Jesus’ heart for each child on earth, ‘The Precious Ones’. Each one of us can relate to Kay and Ray’s story. It illustrates family values and love for others. Finally, it reminds us as adults as we read it to our children that we all need a healthy sense of urgency for the many who have not heard the Gospel. Thanks Debbie!” —Lonnie Gonzales, City Director, LINC Houston, LINC Ministries Int’l, Inc.
“Ray is the best big brother ever! In a captivating story, Ray helps his little sister Kay and other young readers understand the timeless parable of the Lost Sheep while searching for Tommy. Finding a Friend is the next book in the Kay & Ray series where Debbie Maestas provides a fresh approach to encourage children to act with compassion and reach the helpless with the hope of Jesus.” — Kathie Walker, Director, Day One Christian Academy
“Reading the third book in Debbie’s Kay and Ray series is like spending time in the warmth of the author’s own presence. Not only do the characters as drawn resemble Debbie and her beloved brother, but the tone of the work reflects much of her own character and disposition. Debbie’s tale, rooted as it is in the Biblical tale of Jonah, entirely avoids offering a sermon, or preaching to its young audience. The central conflict occurs when Kay, a typical child, chooses to ignore her mother’s instructions in delaying her inevitable chores. In response, both big brother Ray and their mother avoid scoldings, instead encouraging right action by example, Ray with his industry and generosity, Mom in her nurturing forgiveness. Young readers will identify with the authentic characters, and will discover the story’s lesson without realizing they have been instructed. Thankfully, there are many more Bible stories to draw from, and we can look forward to more voyages into the world of Kay and Ray.” –Marta Crawford, High School English Teacher and mother of two
“If you’ve ever been a kid or the parent of one, this story about Kay is a familiar scene. Debbie does a great job of taking an everyday rebellion like not doing your chores and connecting the story of Jonah. Truth is, I need this reminder as a grown up too.” — Paul Foster, dad with four boys
“The book, Listening to Mom is a good example of God‘s love and forgiveness to us all. The author Debbie Henderson Maestas does a wonderful job showing this. When Kay was asked to do her daily chores, she finds every excuse not to do them. Her consequence is losing out on some of her favorite rewards. Her brother Ray shows God‘s compassion by lending a helping hand to do these chores. This book is a perfect example of God’s love, and why we should obey our parents. Hopefully Kay learned from this experience.” — Glenda Mouton, Early Childhood Educator in Christian/Public Schools 40+ years
Debbie Henderson Maestas has a wonderful way of engaging her audience with her modern twist on familiar Bible stories. Everyone has struggled with keeping a secret at some point in their life. Today’s children will be encouraged to make the right choice after reading this delightful book. If you have forgotten the story of Samson and Delilah, I promise after reading this one you’ll go straight to your Bible to refresh your memory and will enjoy a teachable moment with your children. — Jeni Jones, mother of four girls and former elementary school teacher
It is no secret that Debbie Maestas is one of today’s most insightful Christian authors for children, and her latest book, Telling a Secret, honestly and compassionately teaches the blessing of Law and Gospel in our lives. The fourth installment of the charming Kay & Ray series deftly employs a contemporary backdrop and plot to shine the light of truth and grace for readers of all ages. With beautiful simplicity, Maestas easily transports the reader to the school yard to empathize with Kay’s vulnerability and her battle to be in the world and not of it, or, in this case, to be in the group not outside of it. Kay’s experience, which Maestas skillfully likens to the story of Samson and Delilah, reminds the audience of the glory all fall short of, but for the redemption and grace of Jesus Christ. Let Jesus’ love not be a secret to anyone, or the immense value of Telling a Secret to proclaim the Gospel message. — Brian Underwood, M.Ed., Executive Director, Sierra Lutheran High School Columnist Nevada Appeal, Carson City, NV
“In Stopping a Bully, the essence of the story of Queen Esther and her efforts to help others being persecuted is captured and transformed it into a modern day telling that speaks clearly to elementary age children. Bringing the stories and lessons of the Bible to our children is a gift that Debbie Henderson Maestas and Andrew Thomas share with us. I’m thrilled to see another story in this loveable Kay & Ray book series.” –Stephanie Sipila Mother, Engineer, and Manager NASA Johnson Space Center
“Stopping a Bully is a beautiful book about the the power of self-worth. This book displays how a wonderful support network of friends, family, and faith can help children stand up for themselves when they are bullied. This book will teach children about finding help in bullying, building resilience, and overcoming doubt in their own capabilities. This would be a great addition to any counselor’s office, school, or library to open up important conversations about bullying. A great read!”–Christina Wilson Licensed Professional Counselor and Children’s Book Author
“Stopping a Bully by Debbie Maestas is not only an insightful guide for young children dealing with bullying but also seamlessly integrates the timeless lessons from Bible stories, with a particular focus on the inspiring tale of Queen Esther. This unique approach enriches the narrative by drawing parallels between Biblical wisdom and the challenges children face today, especially when the main character, Kay, is faced with needing new glasses and is teased by her peers.The inclusion of Queen Esther’s story serves as a powerful metaphor, illustrating courage, resilience, and the importance of taking a stand against injustice. Maestas skillfully weaves these timeless principles into the fabric of the book, creating a tapestry of wisdom that resonates with young readers. By connecting Biblical narratives with real-life situations, the author not only imparts moral lessons but also encourages empathy and understanding among children. The storytelling is crafted in a manner that is both engaging and accessible to young minds. Maestas uses age-appropriate language and relatable scenarios, ensuring that the book is not only informative but also captivating for its target audience. The incorporation of Bible stories, particularly the tale of Queen Esther, adds a layer of depth to the book, making it a well-rounded resource for parents, educators, and caregivers seeking to instill values of kindness and resilience in young hearts. The illustrations add to the richness of the story and are visually pleasing.” —Tammy DuffSchool Principal and Grandparent