Today we’d like to introduce you to Caroline Hamilton-Arnold.
Caroline, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
The home of my childhood set the stage for where I am today; my parents are lovers of nature, science, books, learning, and creativity. They also modeled for me curious, compassionate faith. After initially anticipating a career path into academia (with degrees from Texas Christian University and Claremont School of Theology), I was drawn into ordained ministry. After serving local congregations in California and Connecticut, I began working for the disaster response ministry of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Week of Compassion, where I now serve as Associate Director. My recently published children’s book, Wonder Awaits, draws on all of these experiences as it encourages children–and the adults around them–to take notice of the wonderful world around us.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
In many ways, I have been fortunate and quite privileged through my journey. While there have been challenges such as making cross-country moves and balancing work and family, I have had an incredible support system through it all.
In regard to the publication of Wonder Awaits, three primary challenges come to mind. First– imposter syndrome. While 4-year-old me would have told you I would be an author, adult me lacked such certainty, unsure that a project I first drafted in crayon on cardboard beside my toddler would have appeal beyond my family. Second– representation. In gathering the photographs for the book, I reached out to family, friends, and colleagues with children in the intended age range who would also value the message of the book. We wanted readers to be able to both see themselves and the diversity of our human family in the images; I delight in the collection of images and also recognize the representation is incomplete. Third– the pandemic. Promoting and sharing the book in community has been difficult, given the risks of traveling and gathering (especially since the target audience could not until recently be vaccinated).
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My recent creative work is a children’s book called Wonder Awaits. This book, along with my work in Christian ministry settings, fits within a growing movement of progressive Christian voices, valuing faith, compassion, inclusivity, curiosity, and the sacredness of each person’s and each community’s story.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
My recent book was born of both my desire for progressive Christian resources for families and children (that lead with delight instead of dogma and curiosity instead of moralism) and the particular oddity of parenting during the pandemic. Our oldest son was 10 months old when we first entered lockdown and our world shrank rapidly. He (re)taught me how to notice and find joy in our backyard, our neighborhood, our daily lives.
Pricing:
- Wonder Awaits is available through most booksellers, list price $17.99
Contact Info:
- Website: https://wonder-awaits.jimdosite.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wonderawaitsbook/
- Other: https://chalicepress.com/products/wonder-awaits
Image Credits
Photos Courtesy of the Hamilton-Arnold, Grijalva, and Hong Shean families. Cover Art courtesy of Chalice Press.
