Looking out the Window: Victoria Simcox Talks About Jesus's Charge That We Love One Another and Her Children's Book, Norma Elliot's Secret Journal, Book One
A Warm Welcome to Victoria Simcox
Loving One Another
Jesus charged us with what seems impossible—to love one another. But how can we love others with that same unconditional love that Jesus loves us with?
Jesus knows all of our inadequacies, and he still gives us the command to love one another just as he loves us. He had shown a love that is comprised of acceptance, forgiveness, and compassion. It was a love manifest by unselfishness and putting others above oneself, a love that even exceeded cultural standardizations and opportunities.
God is love and if we call ourselves godly, then we need to display to others the love of Christ. Love is what we should demonstrate to others whether they merit it or not. Love should be our submission and duty to God.
It can be tough to love individuals we feel are trying but the grace of God will aid us in doing so. Pray for a loving and kind heart toward others, and that you will be a likeness of the love of Christ in the world.
About Norma Elliot's Secret Journal, Book One
I’m Norma Elliot. I know what you’re thinking; who names their kid Norma nowadays? I feel the same as you. I’m a ginger―that means red-head. Actually, my hair isn’t red; it’s orange, but I guess red-head sounds better than orange-head. First, because it rhymes, and second, someone may get confused and think that my head is an actual orange.
I’m ten years old and sharp―what my dad calls me―that means smart, not pointy. My story is about what I did during the winter season―no-brainer. The title gave that away. It’s mostly about me learning life lessons and spending time with God when I write to Him in my secret journal.
Oh, I need to mention, I’m not perfect; definitely not. Thought I’d warn you, just in case you’re expecting to read a story about some cute little angel-type girl. If you were, you might want to find a different story to read. But if you’re up for a story about a girl who’s a work in progress―what dad says our old house is―you may just like mine. I really hope you do.
What People Are Saying
A review by Catherine
’Tis the Season by Victoria Simcox is a sweet, funny book for middle-grade readers. It tells the story of ten-year-old Norma Elliot, who receives a journal for Christmas instead of the video game that she wanted. That journal soon becomes very important to her as she decides to use it to write letters to God.
Norma’s everyday worries over the boys who tease her over her “grandma” name, her older sister’s hand-me-down snowsuit, her feelings of envy when her best friend invites another friend out to the movies, and more all appear in her letters, along with the lessons she learns as she negotiates these challenging situations.
I’ve read and enjoyed all of Victoria Simcox’s Bernovem Chronicles books, which are fantasy, and it was a lot of fun to see the author use a totally different style for this more down-to-earth tale. Norma frets about her ginger hair, her family, school, and her friends, and her trials and tribulations will be very relatable for other kids her age. Norma also has a big personality, and the way she phrases things will make kids laugh. In addition, kids will find food for spiritual thought as Norma confesses to her own mistakes and shortcomings when she addresses God in her letters.
’Tis the Season is a book kids can enjoy reading on their own, and also one that parents and children can have fun reading together. And if they do read it together, they’ll have a lot they can discuss after each chapter. I hope we get to hear more from Norma in the future!
A review by Larry
Tis The Season is a delightful story told through the eyes of a ten-year old girl named Norma. She is in a family with Viola, her older sister, Antonio, her little brother, her mom and dad, a dog named Pam and her interactions with classmates, both girls and boys.
Touching segments throughout the story is Ms. Simcox's Norma character puts scriptural entries into her journal and expresses herself to God on her shortcomings and applies the Bible verses to her life in what she has learned.
The author does a fine job of showing the world through the eyes of a girl who is growing up, what things are important to her and how she can see that she can be a better person.
It took me back to a time in my childhood when things were simpler and how children, with help, can figure things out for themselves. I highly recommend this story.
A review by Michelle
Oh my! This story had me laughing as I read it. Norma Elliot is this quirky preteen girl who doesn't exactly want the gift she was given for Christmas. However, she not only comes to enjoy it but draws closer to God in the process. I believe this story can be enjoyed by any age. Fans of James Patterson's Middle School books would also enjoy it.
The author's writing style is slightly different from her other books but just as good. She grabs the reader's attention from the get go and keeps it for a humorous look into the life of Norma. Great job!
Buy Book One on Amazon
Also look for Book Two on Amazon
BIO:
Victoria was born in Scarborough, Ontario, Canada, to an Austrian immigrant mother and a Dutch immigrant father. She now calls Western Washington home. Besides her writing career, Victoria taught elementary-school art for several years. Her past times are writing, reading, painting watercolors, hiking and spending time with her hubby of 32 years. She likes to read theological as well as some fantasy genres. Two of her favorite authors are R.C. Sproul and C.S. Lewis.
Connect with Victoria
Comments
It's my pleasure to have you!
Well, in this case, I came by it honestly, and I told her that. You see, Mama was more frank and outspoken than I am. Lol.
God's blessing on your book May it reach the throngs. I enjoyed your interview with Gail. She's a talented author, herself.
Ah, thank you for stopping by and for those kind words.