The Unusual and Adventurous Raising of Charlie Finley

by Jake Each, Marcy Each (Editor), Johnnie Each (Editor)

Charlie Finley wasn’t raised like a normal boy. No, you’d be hard pressed to find someone that would describe his childhood as “regular” in any sense of the word. When Chester Finley, Charlie’s dad, dropped little Charlie off at his relative’s bed and breakfast, The Crooked Creek Inn, Charlie thought no good could come of it. It was an absolute left by his dad to do chores at the inn and live with his mean old aunt, uncle and cousins. But as guest after interesting guest entered Charlie’s life and taught him some lessons, he began to think differently about the world, very differently. After all, he wasn’t raised like a normal boy. No, he was raised in a very unusual and adventurous manner.

162 pages, Hardcover

Published March 1, 2026

Reviews

[Moses Each · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s always a pleasure to read a good story, but even more so when it comes from your dad. We mustn’t downplay the importance of stories, even children’s stories. Lewis once said that, “No book is really worth reading at the age of ten which is not equally – and often far more – worth reading at the age of fifty and beyond.” Stories are soul food, and this was a special meal.

[Johnnie Each · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pretty cool to read a book by your dad :) So glad he finished telling the story he started reading to us over 10 years ago!!

[Sophie Bodin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a good book and so fun to read. Even though it is a children’s book I was still challenged and encouraged in my faith! I cannot wait to read this book to my children someday :)

[Elly Hamby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read to Bodie at 5 months old and will read to him again when he’s 5 years old :)

[Annalise Herman · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great book! This sweet story that really points to God and helps kids think about Him.
If you are looking for a book that is simple, intriguing, enlightening and fun; pick this one up! I will definitely be reading this one out loud to my kids soon. I think it’s a great way to open conversations and learn how to actually live for God as a child or even just in general.

[Ian Crosby · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a sweet book to read to my kids before bed. Engaging, fun, and good conversations after each chapter (love when stories include discussion questions for the family). I’m sure we will reach for this one again soon.

[Dawn Corrigan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The lead pastor at my church wrote this children’s chapter book to be read as a family. However, I enjoyed reading it myself and reflecting on the messages interwoven throughout Charlie’s adventurous interactions.

[Jill Kloewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Austin recommended this book to me; his friend wrote it. Any parent, especially those in the midst of raising their children should read this book. Very unique way to write about parenting, life lessons & God.

[Eden · Rating 5 out of 5]

💜💜

[Sydney · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a sweet read! This is a kid’s story that is encouraging for the believer at any level. I feel I now need to sit and watch the moon and ponder the moon-maker.