Why I Write Middle-Grade Fantasy—and Why I Publish with Lightforge Books

Why I write middle grade fantasy:

I write middle-grade fantasy because I enjoy stripping complex issues down to their core truths—and because it is the kind of story I love to read. Middle grade is a space where imagination and formation meet, and stories can be adventurous without losing their heart.

C.S. Lewis tells a story in his essay On Three Ways of Writing for Children. An author once submitted a manuscript for him to read. Lewis replied that he didn’t like a particular gadget in the story. The author responded, “No more do I, it bores me to distraction. But it is what the modern child wants.”

Lewis’s reply to authors in this opening paragraph: "I put in what I would have liked to read when I was a child and what I still like reading now that I am in my fifties." Children, perhaps more than anyone, can sense insincerity.

I don’t make up gizmos, gadgets, plots, and problems because it’s what a child wants or expects; I write what captivates me, and I believe it will captivate others, too. And often, if I’m really on a roll, it becomes a story that neither the reader nor I knew we needed until we found it.

The same philosophy shapes why I publish through Lightforge Books. There are two foundational reasons:

  1. The forge reminds us that we are created with a need and desire to create. We all have purposes in life: telling stories, making a product, building, growing food, caring for others, etc. Whatever our work, it should be done with intention. Craft your impact.
  2. The lantern is a reminder that our work should produce goodness and light. We don't create for own satisfaction and glory, but to lift and serve others. Meaning is found when our work benefits more than ourselves.

What this means for my stories

My stories deal with real-life struggles, even though they take place in fantastical worlds. Characters may die. There is potential for genuine loss. Choices matter.

I do not write superficial stories, but I also do not glorify violence, death, or despair. I avoid needless fear or graphic detail. I focus on growth, responsibility, and the consequences of choices.

My goal and promise to you as a reader is this: I will use difficult themes to present meaningful stories and positive purpose. I want to have fun writing it, and I want you to have fun reading it.

I intentionally craft stories with these simple principles to encourage readers, help them consider questions to better understand themselves and become confident, and remind them that they are valued and seen just as they are.

When new books release, I plan to share discussion questions and reflections during launch week through my newsletter. If you ever want to talk more about these themes, I’m always glad to hear from readers.

Until next time—forge with light, and be brave in your craft.

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