Poet, essayist, critic, editor, and general literary jack-of-all trades Paul J. Pastor is one of those authors whose SubStack, The Rose Fire, I adore and whose publication dates I track. When is his next book coming out?

Good news! The Locust Years, his newest book of poetry, just released from Wise Blood Books. This one is such a treat, my friends.

Paul joins us on the show today to talk about all things hope, grief, poetry, birds, and why suffering can be very fertile ground for good art.

Plus: he reads a few of his gorgeous poems for us. We also talk about the beaches of the Pacific Northwest, the unpredictability and gift of inspiration, and why you can’t fight Babylon with the weapons of Babylon—but you can fight it with poetry, with goodness, with beauty, and with life.

As a parent, helping my kids connect with the love and care of God through experiences in nature is one of my great joys. Whether it’s taking them to the park or going on a hike or just pointing out the cool bug that’s hanging out on our gutter, there are few things like the power and beauty of the natural world to inspire wonder.

Valerie Ellis is a children’s book author who knows a thing or two about wonder. From giraffes to acorn woodpeckers, flamingos to sea otters, her beautiful new book, Wild Faith Devotional for Kids: 52 Amazing Animals that Point to One Great God is a delight.

Whether you’re a parent, a grandparent, a Sunday School teacher, a babysitter, or just someone who loves animals and kids, this book is a gem.

Come along with us as we unpack what makes a good children’s book, how children are natural conduits for wonder, and the connection between faith and God’s good creation.

Author and speaker Dorothy Greco joins us on the podcast today to help expand our definition of misogyny and see how embracing both women and men as full parts of the human story can bring us hope.

She joins us to talk about her fabulous new book, For the Love of Women: Uprooting and Healing Misogyny in America. I found this conversation so enlightening, and I just know that you will, too.

Plus: why Saw-whet Owls are some of the best owls, the status of leaves turning in Massachusetts, and the hope of a really good church.

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