Behind the Story

The family in this story is realistic. Many Christian families enjoy relationships similar to those depicted in this book by seeking to apply God’s word to every area of their lives.

Since my family lived near Phoenix until 2008, I am familiar with extreme heat, slow traffic, and frequent unplanned stops. My mom said to tell my readers she is “map-challenged”—just like Mrs. Edwards.

The rustic cabin and bunk beds are patterned after those at a family camp in Prescott. At this camp, the children often play pine cone wars in the woods.

My dad used to be a courier, driving to Northern Arizona every day with deliveries. I remember riding with him, and stopping at Meteor Crater near Flagstaff.

My family watched a meteor shower when my sisters and I were very little. We parked by the side of a dirt road and ate popcorn.

Just before I wrote the chapter entitled, “The Good Gift,” my family wrote committee stories, and I decided to include them.

While there really is an observatory in Northern Arizona, the one in this story and its Mars Simulator are both made up.

“Sound-Charades” is not a real game, and Sir Milo and the Seven Doors is not a real book... at this time.

My dad teaches much like Mr. Edwards by leading us in enthusiastic discovery discussions.

Since my siblings consist of 6 girls and one boy, much of my knowledge of boyishness has been gleaned from observing the younger boys at church.

Although astronomy is not my main interest, I learned a great deal and gained a greater appreciation for this aspect of God’s creation as I researched for this project.