I love writing soul-shaping adventures for your family and especially your kids.

Many families have shared that these stories have reflected some much-needed light during dark times. That’s my privilege!

My heart is to serve you, maybe especially when times are tough. But whether or not you or your kids are in a difficult time now, those days will come. My friend Mike said these stories build a kind of armor for kids. I think he’s right, and I’m all in to serve you this way.

Your inbox, feeds, mailbox, and maybe even text messages are probably bursting with deals this week. So many people shouting: “BUY THIS, HURRY, DON’T MISS OUT!”

I hope you’ll consider our family store, but whether or not you do, I hope you have a wonderful week with family. I am thankful for you. God give you joy!

New Helmer Plush!

You’ve been asking for this for about ten years and it’s finally here: a Green Ember plush! Bring a soft and fluffy favorite (imagine Helmer hearing himself described that way!) home for Christmas.

This plushie is a great little companion for bedtime, car rides, read-alouds, and more.

Get PlushUp to 30% off + Free T-Shirt!

Head over to Our Family Store for the best deals of the year – up to 30% off storewide AND free shipping on domestic orders over $50!

Get the Jack Zulu T-Shirt for free when you buy Jack Zulu 1 & 2. (These are books I wrote with my son, Josiah!)

Also back in stock:

Heather’s Necklace​Long-Sleeved Helmer T-ShirtSIGNED The Lost KeyAudiobook Update

We’re close! Audiobook is in post-production and we’re working hard to bring it to you in time for Christmas. You’re going to love it. The narrator is fantastic.

To make sure your physical items arrive in time for Christmas, please take note of the shipping deadlines:

Standard Shipping: December 10thFaster Shipping: December 15th

Thank you for supporting our small business. It means so much to me and my family.

I’m on your side,

Sam

Shop Story Warren store

P.S. If the thought of making small talk around the table makes your introverted heart want to slip away with a good book, my pal (and illustrator) Zach, has some truly horrible conversation tips:

Here’s a script you can use to gently bring the Green Ember Game into the conversation.

Scenario: You’re at dinner with acquaintances. Someone notes something surprising.

You respond:

“You know what else is surprising, [Name]? Raising $250k from 2,655 backers for a video game based on a book series!”

[Stare at them wide-eyed until they smile or nod.]

Green Ember: Helmer in the Dragon Tomb is releasing as a novel AND a game … [pause for dramatic effect] … AT THE SAME TIME [Place hands triumphantly in the air as you shout this, but keep eye contact]! Let’s all buy it [Try to start a chant in the room ‘The Green Ember Rises!’ say this over and over until people join in]. ”

That kind of subtly lets you nudge people toward the Green Ember* without being too forceful.

For the record—in case anyone is confused—don’t do this. I’m joking. It’s a terrible idea (but if you try it, let me know how it goes).

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