As screens become a near-constant part of our lives, one mom and grandma is inviting families to slow down, snuggle up, and rediscover something timeless: the joy of reading.
(Listen to Crystal Thornton's interview and Teresa Argenbright in the Podcast below)
Theresa Argenbright never planned on becoming a children’s book author. In fact, she says, “Writing a children’s book was never anything that ever entered my mind, until my daughter suggested it.” That simple nudge led to her "Magical Menagerie" book series, whimsical rhyming tales that spark laughter, build vocabulary, and ignite imagination in young readers.
While her books aren’t explicitly faith-based, Theresa’s heart for Jesus gently shines through.
“The characters live with gratitude. They love nature. They respect each other’s differences,” she explains. “Those are values rooted in my faith.”
With summertime in full swing, Theresa is encouraging parents to create a screen-free rhythm of reading, reminding us it’s never too late, or too early, to build a love for books.
“There’s nothing better than having a little child squished into your ribcage, arms around them, sharing a story,” she says. “That’s a bonding moment, and a mental health break for everyone.”
Here are six simple, faith-friendly ways Theresa suggests families can unplug and build a love for reading this summer:
1. Read Early, Read Together
Start reading before kids can talk and keep going even when they’re teens. “One mom told me she and her teenage kids still read aloud together. It opens doors for conversations they might not have otherwise.”
2. Make It Fun, Not Forced
Read at the pool, at the playground, or after breakfast. Make trips to the library a weekly adventure. “Reading doesn’t have to feel like homework. It should feel like joy,” Theresa says.
3. Turn Car Rides Into Vocabulary Games
Theresa recommends easy, on-the-go games like “Opposites,” “Synonyms,” or “How many words can you make from these letters?” One favorite: “Find another word for ‘amazing’: how about sublime, astonishing, or spectacular?”
4. Encourage Imaginative Play
Act out favorite stories or put on a talent show based on a book. “Get them imagining, moving, laughing. It all feeds the soul.”
5. Make Library Visits an Event
Treat weekly trips to the library like a special outing. “Let them choose what they want—and if they’re only interested in dinosaurs, encourage them to branch out. Say, ‘OK, along with dinosaur books, let’s try one about mermaids or sea creatures!’”
6. Find Faith Moments in Every Story
Even in secular books, Theresa encourages parents to connect stories to faith. “Maybe the character showed courage, kindness, or perseverance. Those are great opportunities to say, ‘That’s how God made us too.’”
As summer continues, Argenbright's approach offers families a meaningful alternative to screen time—one that builds vocabulary, strengthens relationships, and nurtures imagination in ways that honor God's gift of creativity.
And for the creative parents and grandparents out there, Theresa has one powerful piece of encouragement:
“It’s never too late. I didn’t publish my first book until my kids were grown. Stay open to the dreams God placed in your heart. You never know what He’s preparing you for.”
Theresa’s latest book, "Charlotte and Penelope and the Neighborhood Stage," is available now wherever books are sold. It's a joyful reminder that even in a digital age, imagination, wonder, and faith still matter.
Follow Theresa on social media or visit her website at: www.thereseargenbright.com
Instagram/Facebook: @TheresaArgenbright