FAQ
The Answers You Need for "Jim River Boy"
WHERE DID YOU GET THE IDEA FOR THIS BOOK?
In 2019 I determined that I was going to write a book. A really good book about hardships that lead to blessings as I have experienced that several times in my own life. So I started praying about it and imagining the type of story I'd like to read. The ideas started flowing from there and little by little it all fell into place.
IS THIS A TRUE STORY?
No. This story is not based on actual events. Any similarity to events, names or places is coincidental (except for the Stone Church and the James River. Those are real places).
I did, however, use names of friends/family/acquaintances for some of the characters. Having said that, just because I used someone's name does not mean that character represents that individual as I know them in real life.
DOES THE JIM RIVER ACTUALLY EXIST?
Yes, it does. It runs from North Dakota south through South Dakota where it joins the Missouri River. It's just over 700 miles long and is a fairly shallow, slow moving river.
DOES THE CHURCH EXIST?
Yes, it does! The Stone Church (properly called Our Savior's Lutheran Church) is located south of Menno, SD and is the church I grew up in, was baptized in, confirmed in, etc. My mother's family has deep roots in the church and my parents have been strong supporters / attendees for over 45 years. The church still serves the community with pulpit service and hosts Bible School each summer, along with an annual Soup & Pie Meal. Their Old Fashioned Christmas Worship Service is popular, given the fact that worshipers are encouraged to dress up in "old fashioned" attire. It's on the Registry of Historical Buildings. Their website is: StoneChurchMenno.com.
DO YOU PLAN ON WRITING MORE BOOKS?
I do! I have several more ideas mulling about in my head and am currently putting pen to paper. I get asked quite often when my next book will be done!
WHY DID YOU MAKE THIS A RELIGIOUS BOOK?
I felt called to reach people, no matter their situation or location, age or gender, and tell them that God is a God of love and forgiveness and hope! This story is just one of hundreds of scenarios we can encounter in life that can trip us up and make us wonder if God cares about us. He does! And He longs to have a relationship with us! He seeks us out, knocking on the door to our heart, waiting for us to respond to His mercy and grace. There is never a lost cause He can't remedy if we approach Him with a sincere heart.