Denola Burton: Jannean, congratulations on The New Adventures of Frankie & Abby – A Committed Heart being named the Winner of the 2026 Children’s Book International Awards, presented by the American Writing Awards, in the Religious Fiction category. This is a significant achievement.
 

What does this recognition mean to you as an author?
 

Jannean Hedgespeth: This particular book and it's recognition holds an almost unexplainable joy because in the Fall of 2024 I completed "A Committed Heart", but I had four already completed Frankie & Abby stories ready to be published. But The Lord kept insisting through my spirit, to release "A Committed Heart in 2025 – it's needed."
 

Because of my obedience, new opportunities continue to arise, including recognition from the American Writing Awards. I’m truly grateful and excited that my work is being appreciated.
 

Denola Burton: What inspired you to write The New Adventures of Frankie & Abby – A Committed Heart at this time in your journey as an author?
 

Jannean Hedgespeth: I struggled to understand my God-given talents and ran from them out of fear and a desire to do things my own way. I aim to help children and parents move beyond simply reading scripture to truly understanding and applying it. Many children don’t realize their value to God or their divine purpose, which is why Abby’s mom is portrayed as a grounding figure who models meaningful scripture reading and guidance.
 

Denola Burton: Your work feels deeply personal. Where does your voice as a writer come from?
 

Jannean Hedgespeth: My voice comes from my calling as a follower of Jesus Christ. I describe my writing journey as a divine assignment, and I seek to use God’s Word to transform hearts and encourage readers of all ages.
 

Denola Burton: In your new release, The New Adventures of Frankie & Abby: A Committed Heart, the character Abby struggles with validation. What is the main message you want readers to take away?
 

Jannean Hedgespeth: “Oneness Not Sameness in Christ.” Every child is uniquely created with purpose. Abby has to learn that her gift for cooking is a blessing from God, and that true fulfillment comes from aligning her heart with His plan rather than seeking popularity.
 

Denola Burton: Children are growing up in a world filled with comparison and pressure. Why do you believe messages like this are so important for young readers today?
 

Jannean Hedgespeth: When we understand who we are in Christ Jesus:

Ephesians 1:7... Our sins are taken away, and we are forgiven. Ephesians 2:10... We are God’s masterpiece. Colossians 2:10... We are made complete in Christ.
 

Those are just three truths of our identity in Christ. When we know and understand our true identity is found only in Jesus, the world's beckoning temptations to follow its deception and lies will not trip us up.
 

Denola Burton: When readers think about your books years from now, what do you hope they remember most about Jannean Hedgespeth as a Christian Children's book author?
 

Jannean Hedgespeth: Getting lost within the pages of a great book holds wonderful memories for me growing up. Giving those same kinds of memories to parents and children alike will house new and wonderful memories for me. Memories that are shared with other authors around the world – “My book has made a difference in someone's life.”
 

Denola Burton: That is such an inspiration for all of us. Thank you for sharing your heart and your mission with us today, Jannean!
 

Jannean Hedgespeth: It’s been an absolute joy! I just hope these stories remind every reader—young and old—that their true identity is found in a committed relationship with Jesus. God bless! 👏✨