What makes a good story—and what keeps a writer going after years of rejection?

In this episode of "A Literal Journey," host Seth Adam Smith sits down with J.D. Peabody, author of "The Inkwell Chronicles," to explore the deeper themes behind his beloved series. Together, they discuss the influence of C.S. Lewis, the role of faith and belief in storytelling, and the long road to publication—one that took J.D. five years and many rejections to finally bring his manuscript to life.

Through humor, honesty, and heart, J.D. shares what he’s learned about perseverance, creativity, and what truly makes a story great.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or book lover, this conversation will leave you inspired to open a book and embark on your own “literal journey.”

📚 READ The Inkwell Chronicles: https://amzn.to/47d1D4U
🌐 FOLLOW J.D. Peabody: https://www.jdpeabody.com/
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In this FUN and inspiring episode of "A Literal Journey," host Seth Adam Smith sits down with New York Times bestselling author Liesl Shurtliff, celebrated for her reimagined fairy tales: Rump, Jack, Red, and Grump. In this interview, Liesl shares the story behind her beloved books, the moment that sparked her writing journey, and her path to publication. Throughout the episode, Liesl talks about the power of storytelling to shape imagination, character, and family culture—and shares how parents can help their children fall in love with reading.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or book lover, this conversation will leave you inspired to open a book and embark on your own “literal journey.”

📚 READ Liesl’s books: https://amzn.to/4n68QcX

🎧 LISTEN to more episodes of A Literal Journey: https://aliteraljourney.buzzsprout.com/

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Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to "A Literal Journey" for more exclusive author interviews, book recommendations, and literary discussions. 📖✨

In this episode of A Literal Journey, host Seth Adam Smith sits down with authors Chad Morris and Shelly Brown for a heartfelt and practical conversation about the power of stories, the literacy crisis in America, and what parents can do to inspire a lifelong love of reading in their children.

From their own books and experiences as writers, educators, and parents, Chad and Shelly share wisdom on why stories matter, how books shape young minds, and practical strategies families can use at home to nurture readers. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or storyteller, this episode will leave you with actionable tools and a renewed belief in the importance of story.

📖 READ Mustaches for Maddie HERE: https://amzn.to/4nMRdzS

📖 READ Chad Morris's Books HERE: https://amzn.to/4nipSWo

📖 READ Shelly Brown's Books HERE: https://amzn.to/46vqIb4

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Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to "A Literal Journey" for more exclusive author interviews, book recommendations, and literary discussions. 📖✨

Thank you for watching, and we hope you enjoy this insightful conversation with Chad Morris and Shelly Brown. Happy reading! 📚🎉