Many years ago my Mom and I were shopping at a small Christian bookstore. At 9 years old I had already decided I hated reading and that all books were boring. What I didn’t know was that my Mom was determined for her daughter to love reading. Something that was lost shortly after I started school. I do have some very early memories of memorizing my favorite stories and “reading” them to my mom. But now at 9 years old? Books held little interest to me.

I will never forget my mom bringing me over to the used section, very excited and showing me a series of books. My heart sank. There was a TON! How could a series even be that long? “Do you want these? I think you will like them. I will buy all of them for you.” I hated to disappoint her, as she was obviously excited, but in a rare moment of boldness I vehemently refused. “Mom, I will NEVER read them. I don’t want you to waste your money on something I will never read..” I practically begged her NOT to buy them.

We discussed back and forth for a bit before she said “What if I read them to you?” Well. That changed things! I loved spending time with my mom, but still doubtful I would like them I said, “Okay, but don’t buy all of them in case I don’t like them.” I no longer remember how many we bought but I do remember it was more than I wanted and less than what she had hoped.

My Mom did start reading to me. It wasn’t daily and it wasn’t a ton at one time but it was consistent. Sometimes she would suggest it, sometimes I would. Soon I found myself enjoying the story, seeking her out more often to read me a chapter.

Occasionally she would ask me if I wanted to read them myself and my answer was always NO. My mom faithfully read to me, and teased me the first time we went to buy more of the series. We had to buy them new. We could have already owned them all if I had listened to her. So much for saving her money!

For two years my mom read to me. In 6th grade I started homeschooling. Suddenly time to read increased. I remember one day my mom read me a chapter and I begged her to read another. She smiled as she had many times before and set the book down. “You are free to read more if you want to find out what happens. Or you can wait for me to read to you later.” That day was different and I decided to read on. I never stopped. Soon I was reading faster and finishing the books sooner and sooner. My mom put me on a “two books a week” limit, saying she couldn’t afford to buy them as fast as I was reading them. Soon I was all caught up in the series and had to wait for the twice a year publication. But I was hooked on books and soon went in search for other authors.

The Mandie series is set in the early 1900s. A mystery series that features a young girl who is learning a consistent lesson. Think before you act/speak. When you are afraid, put your trust in God. A simple lesson but repeated often.

From North Carolina to Europe, Mandie, her friends, and her cat Snowball find a mystery wherever they go. Mandie makes sure of that! Her faithful and loyal protector, Uncle Ned, always close to help. From sound advice to a shoulder to cry on Uncle Ned is never far but not often seen.

Leppard wrote her first Mandie book, Mandie and the Secret Tunnel, when she was only 11 years old! Although it would be many years later before it was published. Some of Mandie is based off of her mothers experiences growing up in North Carolina.

In so many ways Mandie changed my life. I can’t imagine what life would be like without my love of books. Perhaps you too have a reluctant reader. Read to them. Even when they are past the age of board books and simple stories. Read to them. There are so many books out there that can inspire a person to read. Even if it takes years.

Thank you Mom. I am forever grateful.