Do writers act like big babies when they work with editors? Do you worry about your grammar when you text a friend who is an editor? Deborah’s friends do. But they shouldn’t worry. This NavPress editor just wants to help make writing and books better, and usher important books into the world for all of our sakes. Deborah talks with Karen Stiller about how editors find, woo and work with Christian authors. She shares the story of how she developed a passion for sharing the stories of writers of colour, and why that is so crucial.

We think this conversation is the perfect way to wrap up Season 1 of Good Books Big Questions. We’ll be back in the new year with Season 2.

Post talk from Deborah: Most of my work as a book editor is behind the scenes, so being on the podcast was a treat! I hope our conversation gives listeners a small glimpse behind the curtain. The business of Christian book publishing is full of beauty and meaning, but also tension and risk. As editors, authors, and readers, having a humble posture and an openness to learning keeps us all in check.

Post talk from Karen: “I loved having the opportunity to have a conversation with my very own editor for my book Holiness Here. Deborah knows what she’s doing and she brings a respect and love for writers and the powerful role books play in our lives. That comes through really clear in this episode."

Who is Deborah Sáenz? Deborah Sáenz is an acquisitions and developmental editor for NavPress, specializing in Christian non-fiction. She has worked in book publishing for 15 years as a marketer, collaborator, and editor. She received a bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies from Northwestern University and a certificate in manuscript editing from the University of Chicago. Deeply committed to elevating underrepresented voices, her passion lies in collaborating with authors of color and helping to increase BIPOC representation in traditional publishing. Originally from the U.S.-Mexico border town of Laredo, Texas, she currently resides in San Antonio.

Let us know what you think of the show. Our email address is goodbooksbigquestions@gmail.com And don’t forget to follow, rate and review the show.

The views and opinions expressed in this recording do not necessarily reflect the positions of NavPress or The Navigators.

How do we stop striving for approval and rest in God’s grace? This is an ongoing question for many people of faith. Author, pastor and speaker Joyce Koo Dalrymple knows what striving feels like, and how tough it is to stop. In this honest conversation Joyce shares the roots of her striving, her wounds of failure, and her journey to believe God’s grace.

Parables of Grace: A Bible Study on God's Heart for His Children is her latest book in the LifeChange Bible Study Series from NavPress. The prevalence of grace in these colorful stories from Jesus might surprise you. And if you’ve ever thought you were the “bad guy” in the stories, you won’t want to miss this episode.

A post conversation quote from Joyce: “God’s grace flows out of His very nature and extends to every one of us who is open to receive it. As a recipient of such grace and forgiveness, may you cultivate an ever-deepening loving relationship with God, one that causes you to overflow with grace toward others and demonstrate justice and mercy in the world.”

After the talk with Karen: “Joyce is so accomplished, she’s a little bit intimidating to think about interviewing, but I didn’t need to worry. Joyce brought her warmth, authenticity and deep honesty about her own journey to this conversation that I think will be a relief to many listeners. It was to me!”

Find all Joyce's LifeChange Bible Studies at NavPress.

Books Joyce mentions Life of the Beloved by Henri Nouwen and Abba’s Child by Brennan Manning.

Email Good Books Big Questions at goodbooksbigquestions@gmail.com and give us your feedback.

Who is Joyce Koo Dalrymple? Joyce Koo Dalrymple is a ministry leader, author, and podcast host. She leads Refuge for Strength, a women’s ministry focused on spiritual formation and listening to God in community. She is also the Chief of Content and Engagement at Khora Collective. A former television journalist and attorney, she frequently guest preaches at local churches and speaks at women’s events and retreats. Her books include Women of the New Testament and Jesus' Passion Week. Joyce received a BA from Stanford University, a law degree from Boston College, and an MDiv from Metro Atlanta Seminary. She and her husband Tim have three daughters and live in Philadelphia.

The views and opinions expressed in this recording do not necessarily reflect the positions of NavPress or The Navigators

Do we have to sit with Christians whose politics offend and trouble us? Actually, yes, we should, says author Norm Hubbard. Even if it’s really hard. Norm is the author of More than Christians: Practicing Gospel-Shaped Community with the Language of the Early Church.

Norm didn’t intend to write a book that speaks to the current polarized political climate, but that’s what he did. His suggested solution to the challenges of the day is surprising in simplicity and potentially profound in impact. There’s lots of laughter in this conversation that tackles head on how we get along with fellow Christians whose opinions might alarm us, no matter which side of the political divide you find yourself on.

A post conversation quote from Norm: "We use lots of words to describe the gospel: sin, salvation, grace, eternal life. It's time we add the word, 'family.'”

After the talk with Karen: “Clearly, I find Norm funny. An author who can bring a light touch to heavy topics just makes reading and talking about big things so much easier. This is one of those kinds of conversations.”

Find Norm’s book at NavPress.

Email Good Books Big Questions at goodbooksbigquestions@gmail.com and give us your feedback.

Who is Norm Hubbard? Norman Hubbard has served on staff with The Navigators collegiate ministries for the past 25 years on seven campuses in the Midwest. He currently works with students in Minneapolis, oversees staff in Wisconsin, and speaks at conferences nationally. Norman has a Master's Degree in Applied Linguistics from Auburn University, and he's currently working on a Masters of Divinity at Denver Seminary. He is the author of three Bible study workbooks. Norman and his wife have children ranging in ages from 25 to 10.

The views and opinions expressed in this recording do not necessarily reflect the positions of NavPress or The Navigators